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Gamesir Nova and Nova Lite Arrive with Cross-platform Support

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GameSir has expanded its lineup with the introduction of two new gaming controllers, the GameSir Nova and Nova Lite. These controllers are set to enhance the gaming experience for enthusiasts across various platforms. Featuring the latest in gaming technology, such as anti-drift Hall effect sticks and tri-mode connectivity, the Nova and Nova Lite are designed to deliver precision, flexibility, and value for gamers.

The GameSir Nova, priced at $35.99, and the more affordable Nova Lite, available for $24.99, are both available through Amazon and the GameSir website. Each model brings something unique to the table, catering to the diverse needs and budgets of the gaming community.

GameSir Nova

The GameSir Nova is crafted for gamers who demand versatility and performance. Compatible with the Nintendo Switch, PC, iOS, Steam, and Android devices, it ensures a seamless gaming experience across a broad spectrum of platforms. The Nova’s anti-drift Hall effect sticks are designed for accuracy, providing smooth and consistent control. Its interactive motion controls add an extra layer of immersion, allowing for a more engaging gameplay experience.

Features

  • Platforms Supported: Enjoy your gaming on the Switch, Android, iOS, PC, and Steam.
  • Connectivity Options: Choose between Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or a wired connection for flexibility.
  • Controls: Features membrane ABXY buttons and innovative Hall effect sticks for precise movements. It does not have analog triggers but instead uses hair triggers for quicker responses.
  • Feedback: Equipped with a rumble motor in each grip for immersive gameplay and a 6-axis gyro for motion control.
  • Extra Features: Includes two customizable back buttons to personalize your gaming strategies.
  • Battery Life: Powered by a 1200mAh battery for extended play sessions.
  • Design: Available in two eye-catching colorways: Retro White or Neon Teal.
  • Dimensions & Weight: Measures 155 x 104 x 61 mm and weighs 217g.

Gamers can personalize their experience with the Nova’s RGB lighting effects, creating a gaming atmosphere that’s truly their own. With tri-mode connectivity, including Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired options, switching between devices has never been easier. The controller also features dual HD Rumble Motors for detailed feedback and two macro back buttons for executing complex commands effortlessly.

GameSir Nova Lite

For gamers looking for an affordable option without sacrificing quality, the GameSir Nova Lite stands out. It shares several features with its sibling, including anti-drift Hall effect sticks and tri-mode connectivity. The Nova Lite adds a 20Hz turbo function for enhanced gameplay responsiveness and customizable buttons for tailored gaming. A multi-function M button allows for on-the-fly adjustments, including vibration intensity and control layout, ensuring a gaming experience that matches the player’s preferences.

Features

  • Platforms Supported: Works with PC, Steam, Android, iOS, and Switch for broad compatibility.
  • Connectivity Options: Offers Bluetooth, wireless dongle, and wired connectivity.
  • Battery Life: Comes with a 600mAh battery.
  • Controls: Includes membrane ABXY buttons and Hall effect sticks for durability and precision, with the addition of analog triggers.
  • Feedback: Features a vibration motor in each grip for dynamic in-game feedback.
  • Design: Choose between Stellar White or Space Purple for a look that suits your style.
  • Dimensions & Weight: Shares the same dimensions as the Nova at 155 x 104 x 61 mm and is slightly lighter at 205g.

Both the Nova and Nova Lite are equipped to meet the demands of today’s gamers, combining affordability with advanced gaming technology. Their introduction is a testament to GameSir’s commitment to the gaming community, offering high-quality, versatile controllers that don’t break the bank.

For more information and to purchase the GameSir Nova or Nova Lite, visit the GameSir website or Amazon.

Enhancing Everyday: The Weekend Recommenderโ€™s Picks for Tech and Lifestyle

In this edition of the Weekend Recommender, we spotlight a curated selection of innovative lifestyle and technology products designed to enhance your adventures and daily routines.

From a game-changing portable tripod that promises to revolutionize smartphone photography, to a travel-ready backpack built for durability and style, a shark-deterring wearable for ocean enthusiasts, a high-tech toothbrush that elevates oral care, and Bluetooth speakers that blend superb sound with sleek design.

Let’s explore these standout products and discover how they could become essential components of your lifestyle toolkit.

Pocket Tripod

The Pocket Tripod ($35) is a versatile and durable tool for any smartphone photographer. Made with CNC-cut carbon fiber legs, the Pocket Tripod PRO is not only stable but also can withstand over 100,000 uses. It comes with a Universal Kit including seven interchangeable adapters, fitting 95% of phone and case combinations on the market.

Unlike traditional tripods, this one tilts to any angle in both landscape and portrait mode, allowing for the capture of time-lapse and long exposure shots, as well as the ability to film oneself. The tripod folds down, making it incredibly compact and convenient to carry around. With its adaptability, durability, and sleek design, the Pocket Tripod PRO is a must-have for anyone who wants to take their smartphone photography to the next level.


COR Surf Island Hopper Travel Backpack 40L

Looking for a durable, all-purpose travel backpack? Check out the COR Surf Island Hopper Travel Backpack 40L ($115). With its shock-resistant padded laptop side pocket, easy access luggage-style opening, and weather-resistant TPU exterior, this backpack is designed for comfort and convenience.

It’s also well within carry-on size allowance, making it the perfect choice for light, well-prepared travel. And if you need a smaller option, the 38L Island Hopper is specially designed for ease of use in airports and on planes. Both sizes feature premium YKK water-resistant zippers and multiple pockets for sunglasses, chargers, and more.

Specially designed for travelers who need a reliable, lightweight, and spacious backpack, the Island Hopper is the last backpack you’ll ever need. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.


Sharkbanz 2

The Sharkbanz 2 ($128) is a powerful wearable deterrent for beachgoers, ocean athletes, and marine professionals seeking additional ocean safety. The lightweight product uses patented magnetic technology to deter predatory shark species and stingrays.

With no need for batteries or charging, Sharkbanz never turn off and provide a universal fit for all ages. Whether you’re surfing or diving, Sharkbanz are designed to reach a depth of 100m/330ft and come with a magnetically-shielded box for safe storage and easy travel. The result of scientific research spanning over a decade, Sharkbanz was proven effective through independent government testing.

By disrupting the electromagnetic field that sharks and stingrays use, Sharkbanz is a fuss-free, reliable invention that provides added peace of mind and safety in the ocean.


Laifen Wave Toothbrush

The Laifen Wave Electric Toothbrush ($69) features a dual-action mechanism that combines oscillation and vibration, designed to enhance brushing efficiency threefold for healthier teeth. With its 60ยฐ ultra-wide oscillation range, the Laifen Wave allows for vertical movements that reach deeper and clean more thoroughly than conventional models.

The Wave is powered by a proprietary servo system, delivering up to 66,000 vibrations per minute. This not only ensures deep cleaning but also does so with minimal noise, making for a more pleasant brushing experience. The toothbrush comes in a sleek, single-piece design available in three finishes, emphasizing both style and hygiene with its IPX7 waterproof rating.

For those seeking a tailored brushing experience, the Laifen Wave offers customization through an intuitive app, allowing adjustments across three settings and ten intensities. It’s equipped with premium antibacterial brush heads, available in three types to cater to various dental needs, ensuring a comprehensive clean that’s both effective and gentle on the gums.


Edifier R1280DB Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier R1280DB Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers ($150) are a versatile addition to any home audio system. With 42W total power output and support for Bluetooth, Optical, Coaxial, and Dual RCA inputs, these speakers offer flexibility and convenience.

The bass, treble, and master volume dials on the side panel allow for easy customization of sound, while the wireless remote control makes adjusting volume and muting simple. The 100% MDF wooden enclosures minimize acoustic resonance, enhancing the overall sound quality.

These speakers provide room-filling sound with four driver units, delivering 42 watts (RMS) output power. The 2-way active crossover control and 4-inch mid-range/bass drivers create rich lows, while the 0.5-inch silk diaphragm treble drivers produce crisp highs. The classic wooden enclosure design complements any home decor, making these speakers both aesthetically pleasing and high-performing.

Hands-On: GravaStar Mercury M2 Wireless Gaming Mouse

GravaStar’s Mercury M2 Wireless Gaming Mouse is designed to take your gaming experience to the next level. With a unique hollowed-out design, this mouse not only looks cool but also allows for better airflow.

The ergonomic build and lightweight construction make it comfortable for long gaming sessions, while the 1KHz polling rate and 26,000 DPI ensure sharp accuracy and precise in-game actions. Plus, it offers seamless wired and wireless options with versatile connection choices.

The customizable GLOWSYNC RGB lighting and 5 programmable buttons give you the freedom to personalize your gaming setup and tailor button functions to your strategies. If you’re a serious gamer looking for a high-performance, comfortable, and customizable gaming mouse, the GravaStar Mercury M2 is definitely worth considering. $80

Features and Highlights

  • Innovative Hollowed-Out Design for enhanced airflow and style
  • Ergonomic comfort with a lightweight build of 79g
  • 1K Hz Polling Rate for sharp accuracy
  • 26,000 DPI with PAW3395 sensor for precise movement tracking
  • Seamless Wired and Wireless Options including 2.4G, Bluetooth, and wired connections
  • 5 Customizable GLOWSYNC RGB Light Modes
  • 5 Programmable Buttons for personalized gaming strategies

Listen to the Podcast

Asus unveils new OLED laptops with latest AI-capable chips

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Asus has expanded its productivity-focused laptop portfolio by launching two new laptop models – The Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (UM3406) and the Vivobook S series. Asus packed Intel and AMD’s latest AI-powered chipsets in the laptops allowing users to unleash the next level of creativity with the power of Artificial intelligence.

The Asus Zenbook 14 OLED comes with just an AMD RYZEN 7 8840HS processor paired with an AMD Radeon integrated graphics card and AMD’s Ryzen AI chip that further boosts the multitasking, gaming, and video-editing performance.

It runs on the latest Windows 11 operating system out of the box and you can also leverage the power of the Microsoft Copilot AI chatbot in Windows 11 that allows you to generate images, summarize texts, write essays, and much more. The machine weighs just 2.82 pounds and has a 0.59-inch profile making it a lightweight machine that you can carry on the go.

The Zenbook 14 features a 14-inch vivid Asus Lumina OLED display with a 60Hz standard refresh rate, up to 500 nits of peak brightness, and an 87% screen-to-body ratio. The MIL-STD 810H military standard offers a sturdy build that ensures maximum safety even in harsh conditions. You get plenty of port options in the Zenbook 14 OLED including an HDMI 2.1 port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB-C ports.

On the other hand, the Vivobook S laptops are available in Intel Core Ultra 9 and AMD Ryzen 8040 series chipset options. The laptop screen size ranges from 14 to 16 inches and comes in a 3.2K display resolution. The OLED 120Hz panel is only available for the 14-inch screen size. The latest laptops have an Asus ErgoSense keyboard that offers great key travel and a comfortable typing experience. It also comes with customizable RGB lights which is great for gamers and hard to find on non-gaming laptops.

The Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (UM3406) starts at $999 while the Vivobook S series retails at $749. Both laptops are now available for purchase via the Asus store and Amazon.

Puro Junior Jams Plusย review –ย  Budget Headphones for Toddlers

Puro recently expanded its lineup with the introduction of the Junior Jams Plus headphones, designed specifically for kids. These headphones come equipped with Puro’s volume-limited technology, which caps the volume at 85dB to ensure a great music experience without endangering the hearing of young listeners.

Not only do these child-friendly headphones offer solid bass depth, but they also provide exceptional comfort during use. Moreover, the headphones feature dedicated control buttons, support for daisy chain cables, among other notable functionalities. Having spent a week using the Puro Junior Jams Plus headphones, I’ve been notably impressed by their overall audio quality. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before deciding to purchase them for your children. Below are my detailed observations on the Junior Jams Plus headphones.

Pricing and Availability

The Puro Junior Jams Plus headphones are priced at $79 and are available in six appealing colors: Blue, Black, Green, Pink, Purple, and Teal. For this review, Puro provided me with the Black variant, which boasts a stunning and eye-catching design.

You can snag the Junior Jams Plus headphones from Puroโ€™s official website and Amazon.

Unboxing

Junior Jams Plus – Design and Build 

Upon unboxing the Junior Jams Plus headphones, I was immediately struck by their appearance. The combination of an aluminum headband and matte black finish on the hard plastic earcups lends a stylish and premium feel that belies their affordability. Designed for compactness, the earcups can fold up to 90 degrees, making them easy to slip into a backpack without occupying much space. They can also rotate up to 180 degrees, allowing for the headphones to rest flat on a surface when not in use.

Given their target audience, the earcups are noticeably smaller, yet this design does not detract from their appeal. Both the earcups and headrest are cushioned with protein leather, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for young ears, and surprisingly, they accommodate adults quite well when the headband is adjusted properly. The cushioning provides ample padding without causing discomfort through excessive pressure.

Puro has thoughtfully included physical buttons on the Junior Jams Plus, simplifying operation for kids. The left earcup houses a power switch and a 3.5mm audio port, while the right features a volume rocker, play/pause button, and a small LED indicator for pairing status. Additionally, there’s a USB Type C port for charging and support for daisy chaining, allowing two sets of headphones to connect to the same device.

In terms of build and comfort, the Junior Jams Plus impresses with its sturdy yet lightweight construction and vegan leather padding, which offers considerable comfort during extended listening sessions. Despite being marketed for kids, they fit adult ears comfortably without applying undue pressure, and the earcups are notably breathable.

Junior Jams Plus – Performance 

The Junior Jams Plus headphones incorporate volume-limiting technology, capping sound at 85dB to protect young listeners from high sound levels. They can be used in both Bluetooth and wired modes and are equipped with custom 40mm dynamic drivers, ensuring a vibrant musical experience across various genres.

The sound quality is commendable, with clear vocals and a bass that complements rather than overwhelms the mid-range. Instruments such as guitars, pianos, and drums are reproduced with clarity, enhancing the overall listening experience.

A notable omission is active noise cancellation, which is not supported by the Junior Jams Plus headphones.

Junior Jams Plus – Battery

Puro claims a battery life of 22 hours for the Junior Jams Plus on a single chargeโ€”a figure that, based on my testing, seems accurate. My usage, predominantly listening to music and watching movies and anime series, didn’t require a charge for six days, and the headphones still retained enough battery life for additional use. However, battery performance may vary based on volume levels.

Junior Jams Plus – Verdict 

Puro Sound Labs has excelled with the Junior Jams Plus, delivering a product that balances rich sound quality, thoughtful design, volume-limiting safety, and excellent battery life, all at a reasonable price point.

Priced at $79, the Junior Jams Plus excels in many areas. Its volume-limiting technology ensures kids can enjoy high-quality audio without exposure to potentially harmful sound levels above 85dB. For parents seeking affordable, volume-limited headphones for their children, the Junior Jams Plus stands out as an exceptional option that nearly ticks all the boxes.

Yale Launches Retrofit Smart Lock and Keypad for Enhanced Home Security

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Yale, a brand synonymous with home security, today unveiled its latest innovations aimed at bolstering smart home security: the Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi and the wireless Yale Keypad. These new offerings are designed to easily retrofit existing deadbolts, making them an ideal solution for renters or first-time smart lock users who seek a balance between security, convenience, and affordability.

Smart Security Made Simple and Accessible

The Yale Approach lock, coupled with the Yale Keypad, presents a comprehensive smart security solution that emphasizes ease of use without compromising on quality. The system offers various access methods, removing the hassle of key exchange or the necessity of a smartphone to enter your home. Hereโ€™s what stands out about each product:

  • Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi: This interior-only smart lock is engineered for simplicity, enabling users to lock and unlock their doors remotely via the Yale Access app. Its auto-lock and auto-unlock features enhance convenience, ensuring you never have to fumble for keys again. Installation is straightforward, requiring just a screwdriver and about ten minutes of your time, making it a friendly option for renters.
  • Yale Keypad: As a wireless accessory, the Yale Keypad extends key-free convenience to users. It supports one-touch locking and unlocking with personalized codes, integrating seamlessly not only with the Yale Approach but also with over 750,000 existing compatible August smart locks. Look out for the Yale Keypad Touch, coming later this year, which will add fingerprint recognition for those who prefer an even more straightforward entry method.

Smart Home Integration and Future-Proofing

Yaleโ€™s smart lock solutions are not just about locking and unlocking doors. When connected via the included Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, these devices integrate into your smart home ecosystem. Compatible with major platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google HomeTM, Philips Hue, and Samsung SmartThings, Yale Approach enables you to manage your home’s security alongside other smart devices. Moreover, a forthcoming software update will make Yale Approach compatible with Matter, offering greater connectivity flexibility for smart home enthusiasts.

Design and Durability

Yale Approach and Yale Keypad are crafted with aesthetics and durability in mind. The Yale Approach lock features a slim profile and a minimalist design, ensuring it doesnโ€™t disrupt your homeโ€™s look. The Yale Keypadโ€™s sleek, backlit touchscreen is both user-friendly and durable, boasting an anti-fingerprint coating and an IPX5 weather-resistant rating, making it suitable for any outdoor condition.

Availability and Pricing

Available now in the U.S. on ShopYaleHome.com and August.com, with plans to extend to Amazon and other retailers, these products offer smart security solutions that are both accessible and affordable. Canadian customers can look forward to exclusive availability on Amazon soon. The bundle, which includes both the Yale Approach and Yale Keypad, is priced at $179.99, with individual pricing at $129.99 for the Yale Approach and $69.99 for the Yale Keypad. A special bundle including the Yale Keypad and the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is also available for $229.99.

Yaleโ€™s new offerings are set to change how renters and homeowners alike secure their homes, providing a blend of convenience, aesthetics, and smart technology at an approachable price point.

T-Mobile Updates Smartphone Equality Program, Expanding Access to Flagship Deals

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T-Mobile announced an update to its Smartphone Equality program today, making it easier for more customers to get their hands on the latest smartphones. The initiative, which aims to offer equal opportunities for customers regardless of their credit scores, has been expanded. Previously, Metro and T-Mobile Prepaid customers could enjoy deals on new devices, but the most attractive offers, especially for flagship devices, were limited to those with high credit scores.

With the realization that payment history can be as indicative of financial reliability as credit scores, T-Mobile has decided to make a change. Now, the updated program allows Metro and T-Mobile Prepaid customers to access the best deals T-Mobile has to offer, including the chance to get the iPhone 15 for free!

Why the Update Is Relevant

Many wireless customers have been unable to access premium deals due to their credit scores. T-Mobile is challenging this norm by providing equal access to these deals, emphasizing that a customer’s payment history should be the main criterion. This move will enable millions more to benefit from better deals.

Eligibility

The program is designed for both new and existing Metro and T-Mobile Prepaid customers. It rewards consistent payment behavior and loyalty.

How the Program Works

Customers who make 12 on-time monthly payments at Metro or T-Mobile Prepaid qualify for T-Mobile’s best device pricing. This includes receiving an iPhone 15 (128 GB) at no initial cost, with 24 monthly bill credits, after trading in an eligible device and transferring their number to a qualifying Go5G planโ€”no credit check needed.

For detailed information on the Smartphone Equality program and the Go5G plans, visit T-Mobile’s official websites. The company offers a range of benefits for its customers, which can be found on their benefits page.

Kobo announced its first-ever Color e-readers starting at $149

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Rakuten Kobo has introduced its first color e-readers, the Kobo Libra Colour, and the Kobo Clara Colour. Kobo brings incremental upgrades to the latest Libra Colour and Clara Colour models compared to the last generation Kobo lineup. The latest e-readers are made with recycled and ocean-bound plastic materials, offer sturdy build quality, and lightweight ergonomic curved design that easily fits in any hand.

The Kobo Libra and Kobo Clara color feature an E-Ink Kaleido 3 module screen that offers a great colorful reading experience. The e-readers have a regular 330ppi monochrome output but it’s cut in half to 150ppi when switched to color output. The screen offers great depth of color and sharpness while reading e-books and manga.

In terms of display, the Libra Colour has a 7-inch screen while the Clara Colour features a 6-inch screen. There is also a traditional black-and-white Clara variant available, alongside color screens. Under the hood, Kobo packs a new faster 2GHz processor in two colour models. All three models have an IPX8 water-resistant rating which is very rare to get any e-reader.

The Kobo Libra Colour with 32GB storage model retails at $219.99 / ยฃ219.99 while the Clara Colour with 16GB storage model starts at $149.99 /$139.99. You can now pre-order your choice of e-reader via Kobo’s official website; shipping will begin on April 30.

Campfire Audio unveils premium Fathom wired earbuds

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The premium audio brand Campfire Audio known for its best-in-class wired headphones – announced a premium Fathom in-ear wired earbuds. Letโ€™s take a look at the detailed specs.ย 

Campfire Audio incorporated a sleek ergonomic machined aluminum body for the Fathom earbuds. The outer shell is finished in a bright-dip anodized signature black shade offers incredible resilience, style, and ergonomics. Those little rainbow PVD fastener rings on the outer shell add a touch of bold excitement.ย 

Under the hood, the Campfire packed six custom-made balanced armature drivers in the Fathom. The new six B.A. internal architecture includes dual mid-drivers for vocals and instrument reproduction, dual custom high-definition super tweeters for crisp and clear highs, and dual custom BA woofers for rich and balanced bass.

The Six armature driver offers detail, precision, and high-quality sound that takes the listening experience to the next level. The ergonomic design provides a sound that is true to the original recording, allowing the consumer to hear their favorite tracks with clarity and depth, said Campfire. The Fathom tunes a wide variety of musical genres while ensuring an immersive and authentic listening experience. 

Campfireโ€™s premium Fathom is priced at $1,049 / ยฃ1,049 and is now available via Campfire Audioโ€™s official website

Spectrum Mobile Launches Innovative Anytime Upgrade and New Low-Cost Device Protection Plan

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Spectrum Mobile announced the introduction of two groundbreaking features today: Anytime Upgrade and a new Mobile Repair and Replacement Plan. These additions aim to offer more value and control to Spectrum Mobile customers, providing a level of mobile device flexibility and protection not commonly found in the industry.

With the introduction of Anytime Upgrade, Spectrum Mobile takes a significant step forward. Included at no extra charge in the Unlimited Plus data plan, this feature allows customers the freedom to upgrade their smartphones whenever they choose, bypassing traditional upgrade limitations like wait times and device condition requirements. This move marks a notable shift towards giving customers more control over their mobile experience.

Danny Bowman, Executive Vice President, Product for Charter Communications, which operates Spectrum, highlighted the customer-centric approach of these new offerings. Bowman pointed out the advantages of being able to switch to the latest technology seamlessly and the peace of mind that comes with affordable device protection.

Innovations in Mobile Device Flexibility

Spectrum Mobile sets itself apart with Anytime Upgrade, offering an unprecedented level of freedom within its rate plan. This feature eliminates the need for customers to wait for specific milestones in their device payment plans before upgrading. Now, Unlimited Plus customers can change to any available new smartphone at their leisure, subject only to the condition that the device powers on and is free from liquid damage.

Affordable and Comprehensive Device Protection

The new Mobile Repair and Replacement Plan introduces a cost-effective solution for device protection, covering issues like broken screens, and loss or theft, for just $5 per month per device. This plan aims to make protection more accessible to Spectrum Mobile customers, including those in New York or those using their own device, provided they subscribe within 30 days of their device purchase.

Spectrum Mobile is rapidly becoming a leading mobile provider by offering flexible plans and combining WiFi with mobile networks for faster wireless speeds. The Unlimited Plus plans further enrich the customer experience with features such as 50GB of premium data, cellular video streaming at up to 720p, and free roaming in Canada and Mexico.