The H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset is a pair of wireless headphones designed with video conferencing and business in mind. Paired via Bluetooth 5.2, it’s compatible with all of the major operating systems, voice assistants, and calling applications.
Over-ear design with adjustable headband, swivel ear cups, and rotating microphone
Passive noise cancellation, flip-to-mute boom mic
Quick access buttons for play, pause, mute, and volume
Visible ‘busy’ light
Two-year warranty
Gallery
Listen to the Episode
Thoughts and Conclusion
If part of your work day requires being on phone calls and video chat, you know just how important it is to be comfortable. Few things make our jobs tougher than having the wrong equipment. The H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset are comfortably designed and feature a nice suite of details.
With more than 40 hours of calling per charge you’re theoretically looking at needing to plug the headphones in maybe once per week. And should opt for music instead of Zoom calls, you’ve got 60+ hours of usage.
The headphones are comfortable to wear and the swiveling ear cups are soft and cool to the touch. Headaches and ear fatigue are non-issues with the over-ear design. Music sounds decent here but that’s not the main draw. Instead, it’s the wide compatibility with conference and calling apps.
Included in the box are adapters for USB-A and USB-C, a charging cable, and a hard shell case. Things are light and easy to pack up for travel so feel free to throw these in your bag for that next remote work day at the coffee shop.
The PuroGamer, priced only $25, are an excellent and affordable way of stepping into the world of gaming headphones. They’re compatible with all major gaming consoles, PC’s, and many mobile devices.
The PuroGamer 2.0 are surprisingly good in terms of sound and function and certainly feel worthy of a higher price tag. Games sound nice and clear but never get too loud because of the volume limiting feature.
The headphones are comfortable to wear for longer gaming sessions and the vegan leather is soft to the touch. Take the detachable microphone out and sit back for hours of music without getting sweaty or pressure on your temples. And the cord is long enough to let you get up and dance around.
If you’re in the market for a first step into the world of gaming at any level, these are a great option. They’ll work with pretty much any console or device you’ll find, including a handful of modern smartphones.
The gaming-focused smartphone manufacturer company iQOO surprised us with its new iQOO Z7i member on the Z series portfolio. Without any launch event or announcement, the smartphone has gone official in its home country. It’s the first smartphone of iQOO that comes with a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor. Although the smartphone falls under the mid-range category and comes with a decent set of features at an affordable price tag.
Speaking about the price, the iQOO Z7i comes in three variant options- the base 4GB + 128GB costs CNY 949 (~$138), the 6GB + 128GB is priced at CNY 999 (~$145), and 8GB + 128GB retails at CNY 1,099 (~$160). The smartphone comes in two color options- Blue and Black. The device will be up for sale from March 20 in China.
iQOO Z7i sports a 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, 88.99 percent screen-to-body ratio, and 20:9 aspect ratio. The smartphone is equipped with clear eye protection which relieves visual fatigue when using the smartphone.
Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor based on 7nm architecture paired with up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage. The iQOO Z7i runs on Android 13 based on Origin Ocean UI out of the box.
In terms of optics, you get a dual rear camera setup on the back with a 13MP primary camera (supports 10x digital zoom) joined by 2MO macro shooter. There’s a 5MP front camera for capturing stunning selfies and video chats.
The smartphone is backed by a massive 5,000mAh battery with support of 15W fast charging. The phone supports a bunch of connectivity options including dual 5G, 4G LTE, WiFi 5, Bluetooth v5.1, GPS, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB type C port for charging and data transfer.
Talking about the MediaTek Diemsnsity 6020 processor, the processor has almost similar specs to the Dimensity 700. It seems that the Dimensity 6020 processor is the rebranded version of the Dimensity 700 chipset. There will be two more members joining the Z7 series- the iQOO Z7 and Z7x. The brand will launch these two smartphones later on March 20 in China.
As demands for online classes and teleconferencing continue to emerge, the importance of tablets has grown significantly, and Blackview Tab 15 has gained immediate global recognition for all-around performance since its debut. But Blackview didn’t stop there. According to leakers: To cater to fans of larger displays for office, entertainment, and learning, Blackview is planning to launch a new tablet Tab 16 this month and says that it is expected to continue the experience of excellent audio and video entertainment, and larger, faster and more encrypted than Tab 15, putting productivity on a higher priority.
Four major upgrades and some specs.
11-inch 2K Full-view Display
TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification
To allow users to view more information and reduce display slippage when browsing docs or web pages, Blackview Tab 16 will feature an ultra-large 11-inch 2K full-view display, which has TÜV Rheinland low blue light certification to reduce eye fatigue in an era where online classes and online offices are increasingly required, greatly enhancing work and study efficiency.
As a “productivity Tool,” Blackview officials say Tab 16 is ready for the situation of learning, office, and education — with a stylus and keyboard. The keyboard features a notebook-like touch panel for more comfortable office or study use. The stylus does a good job in terms of delay, allowing you to write annotations, records, and even hand-drawn operations, which really brings a new experience of paperless learning.
With a 7.95mm slim and 533g light body that has up to 7680mAh giant battery and it will last up to 18 hours of daily use, you don’t need to worry about power drained problems when going out.
Enhanced 13MP + 8MP AI Cameras
To facilitate the needs of students or workplace newbies to record courses and meetings, Tab 16 will have a 13 MP rear camera and 8 MP front camera, taking pictures of what you want to record, allowing you to browse information more efficiently with an 11-inch display, while the front camera supports AI face unlock, just a blink can be unlocked.
Octa-core Unisoc T616
Considering more users for higher speed requirements, Tab 16 is expected to use the octa-core Unisoc T616 chipset, which greatly exceeds its predecessor Unisoc T610 by 36,982 points in the AnTuTu benchmark test, with a 17% increase in RAM processing speed, which can easily be competent in learning, office, or playing games.
Up to 14GB RAM + 256GB ROM + up to 1TB TF card expansion
Doubling Storage Space
Tab 16 is said to be the first Blackview tablet ever to have 256GB ROM, up to 14GB RAM, and 1TB TF card expansion, Tab 16 will not only be upgraded to store more digital content but its smoother multitasking capabilities will also be greatly enhanced.
Upgraded OS For More Convenience
Doubling Efficiency
To ensure a smoother user experience, Tab 16 will come with Doke OS _P 3.0 based on Android 12, which is improved in design, convenience, and smoothness, and Tab 16 will be equipped with a Low Meminfo Killer process that will actively identify which apps are using and prioritizes resources, users may witness better interface responsiveness.
Versatile PC Mode
Break Down Barriers Between Tablet & PC
To give users a PC-like experience, it is likely to become an 11″ laptop working in PC mode, and users can enjoy great convenience when editing business docs, taking class notes, and holding online meetings in great convenience.
Other Highlights
In addition, Tab 16 will have Smart-K quad-box speakers to provide 3D stereo sound and Widevine L1 that allows users to watch leading streaming apps with the highest image quality. At the same time, in order to provide users and enterprises with strong enough security, Tab 16 will be embedded with SE-Linux, which will effectively prevent the device from rooting and prevent apps that attempt to steal private information.
Overall, Tab 16 looks like it will be more productive enough than a phone while still being more portable than a PC. It’s said that the world premiere will be launched from March 20th to 26th, 2023 PST. Click here to get more information.
Editor Note: This post is done in collaboration with GamStop and should not be considered an editorial endorsement
GamStop, together with the UK Gambling Commission, looks after the interests of vulnerable gamblers. The organization also makes resources available to these gamblers when it is required.
The UKGC is tasked with regulating the gambling industry in the United Kingdom. Therefore, operators who wish to obtain a license with the regulatory body will have to sign up with GamStop. This makes it possible for GamStop to assist gamblers who reach out to them for assistance. Confined to the UK, GamStop is only able to assist on casinos and sites within the country and is not able to place restrictions outside the UK. Fortunately, there are other similar platforms which do not have these confinements.
GamStop Main Features
The organisation will require the player seeking assistance to register first. Once all the person’s required information has been included, the gambler has some options from which to make their selection. The organisation allows individuals to sign up for their self-exclusion program. Once all their information has been included in the system, the organisation proceeds to exclude gamblers from all their casino platforms. Whether it’s membership at a land-based casino or online, the player will be excluded from them all within 24 hours.
GamStop is a non-profit organisation that provides services free of charge. Since problematic and addictive gambling requires treatment and support, the organisation also provides information for the gambler. The site has qualified and specialised service providers who would be equipped to give the necessary support services. The organisation can assist gamblers also find specialised and professional financial, emotional and family support.
GamStop Works Only in the UK
GamStop is a nationally run program affiliated with the UK Gambling Commission. Its activities are restricted only to platforms licensed and regulated by UKGC. They are not able to place restrictions on platforms not registered with UKGC, land-based or online casinos outside of the UK. So, players in the UK are able to play at casino sites not registered with GamStop if the operator holds another license.
Completely Free Compared to Other Android Blockers
GamStop is operated by a non-profit organisation, and any funding it receives is through the UKGC. This ensures it can provide its services without any charges and is also able to make its information for support accessible to all who need it. Because of this, those seeking assistance need not fear any hidden costs.
No Need To Install Additional Software
It is an easy-to-use, web-based service that does not require any additional software installation. With its main features, GamStop makes it easy for individuals to manage their gambling activities without additional software. This makes it easier for people with gambling problems to take action and protect themselves from further harm.
Gambling Blockers Features
GamStop is not the only organisation available online that can block gambling activities on behalf of the gambler. Some popular names available for Android are Betfilter, GamBan, GamBlocker and Betblocker. They all have their unique ways of achieving the same objective.
Like GamStop, Betblocker also lets users choose the duration of their self-exclusion period after being installed on a device. Once the gaming control app has been installed on all gadgets, the individual can select anything from 24 hours to five years. The self-exclusion will be applicable through both UK and international sites. The best feature for a parent is the parental control option that is made available.
Gamban will charge you a fine for either cooling off or self-excluding yourself from gambling activities. Able to install on Android, the app will place the selected restrictions as set by the individual. All sites, UK and international, including non-GamStop, will be restricted.
Work as a Software
Like a good antivirus, the software installed on the mobile or computer is indiscriminative in restricting online gambling sites. Both UK and international sites are restricted, and it is only possible to make changes at the end of the selected restriction. Though with Gamban this will remain unless the subscription lapses.
Work Worldwide
One disadvantage with GamStop had been its inability to place restrictions on international casino sites. As such, there has been a market for vulnerable players to access these sites as long as they were non-GamStop. The alternatives take care of this through their software.
Need To Pay
Not all gambling blockers are free. Like Gamban, they might require a monthly subscription fee to continue providing a service. Through the software, they can restrict multiple sites simultaneously so that not even new accounts can be opened through your devices.
Final Verdict
Statistics show that there has been a rise in people who exhibit problematic gambling. There are numerous testimonials to be found online told by people who have gone through the darkest side of problematic and addictive gambling. With an industry that grows year o year into the billions, there is little possibility that there will be a drop in the number of problem gamblers.
Casinos have seen the highest rise in problematic gamblers. It is with programs like GamStop or other gambling blockers that individuals have a chance at finding solutions to their addictions. They can provide their services, allowing gamblers to take a secure road to recovery.
The Vactidy Blitz V8 Cordless Stick is a lightweight portable stick vacuum cleaner. With a number of attachment accessories, it’s a good option for small home or office needs. Battery life is rated up to 35 minutes on the low speed mode but high speed mode is where you’ll get the best suction.
Read on to learn more or check out the podcast (embedded below) to see what we thought of the Vactidy Blitz V8 Vacuum.
Noteworthy Features
35-minute running time
180-degree rotating brush
LED Headlight
Four-stage sealed HEPA filtration system
Extendable metal tube
Gallery
Listen to the Episode
Thoughts and Conclusion
We like the Vactidy Blitz V8 Cordless Stick but we aren’t in love with it, at least not in the sense of whole house cleaning and regular maintenance.
If you’ve got a smaller home or office and crumbs, dust, and hair are generally not too much of a hassle, you’ll be more than happy with what’s on offer. Should you have a home with children and regular messes, you might not be as happy with the results.
The accessories help get into cracks and crevices or to freshen up the furniture, and we do like the extending tube. At just under six pounds, it’s light enough to hit the stairs or go overhead for curtains and ceiling fans.
Much like a robot vacuum works well for daily cleaning and regular sweeping, the Blitz V8 does, too. However, it’s also not quite as strong as a traditional vacuum in terms of suction and you’ll occasionally need to use something more powerful to truly ensure things are clean.
We can appreciate the flexibility and portability of this one but we don’t expect a whole lot from it. It works well in an office with the random dust bunny, spiderwebs, lunchtime crumbs, and dirt. Likewise, it’s a solid solution for vehicles, too.
Samsung has already set some standards when it comes to foldable- either its fold or flip, there is no third option. And tech giant Samsung may start worrying about its foldable because BBK’s kids set the sail towards the foldable segment. According to the reports, Vivo is planning to bring its new foldable smartphone into the market. Of course, Samsung is four iterations forward in the foldable market, and the brand already earned high status in the market, so it’s quite difficult for the upcoming brands to earn consumers’ trust.
Vivo is planning to bring a clamshell-style foldable smartphone which is reportedly called Vivo X Flip. The Vivo X Flip has the same design as the OPPO Find N2 Flip that was launched last month globally. Reliable Tipster Digital Chat Station leaks key features and some design renders of the Vivo’s upcoming clamshell smartphone.
According to the tipster Digital Chat Station, the Upcoming Vivo X Flip will feature a 6.8-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, and up to 12GB of RAM. Renders suggest that the Vivo X Flip will have a larger square-shaped cover screen (dimensions are unknown at this point) which is remarkably larger than Galaxy Z Flip 4 (review).
Source- Weibo
In terms of optics, The flip phone will feature a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP Sony IMX866 primary camera paired with a 12MP Sony IMX633 ultrawide shooter. Just like other Vivo flagships, the X Flip’s rear cameras are co-engineered with Zeeis. There is a center-mounted punch-hole selfie camera but the resolution is unknown.
The foldable is said to have a 4,400mAH battery (which is 700mAh more than the Galaxy Z Flip 4) with 44W fast wired charging support. Furthermore, reports suggest the Vivo X Flip will feature 5G, Bluetooth v5.2, WiFi 6, GPS, NFC, USB Type C port, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
There are no details about its launch, but the X Flip is expected to be launched in china next month. But So far specs we have, the Vivo X Flip seems that a solid flip foldable competitor. In the end, it just leaks and before granting this, it’s better to wait for the Vivo’s official announcement.
The Motorola Q11 (manufactured by Minim under license from Motorola) is an inexpensive Wi-Fi 6 mesh router kit that is easy to set up and comes with built-in security software, making it an attractive option for people on a budget.
The Q11 we tested comes in a three-pack that should be sufficient for a 5,000-square-foot home. The Q11 lacks Bluetooth and Zigbee support but has MU-MIMO, beamforming, and the ability to use 160MHz data channels (160MHz is the highest bandwidth available on 5GHz routers) for gamers or data hogs at home.
via Motorola
When I evaluated the Motorola MH7603 mesh system I was impressed by how easy it was to use. Its built-in network security and parental control software were some of my favorite features. However, I was disappointed that it did not have multi-gig LAN and USB ports. The Motorola Q11 also lacks multi-gig and USB ports, but it does support the aforementioned 160MHz channels and WPA3 encryption, two things not present in the other model.
Setting up the Motorola Q11 requires the use of the Motosync app, which is developed by Minim and can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices. The app utilizes QR codes located on the underside of the Q11 devices. It takes about 20 minutes to set up all three components but I did have to go back later and move things around for better performance.
The mobile app is relatively helpful should you run into issues along the way. The app displays useful information such as the number of online devices and their names, and allows users to view satellite signal strength and reboot satellites.
The Security center on the main screen provides information on security software scans, intrusion numbers, and vulnerability checks. Additionally, the Home Filter feature can block ads and malicious websites, filter adult content, and track internet use and filtering parameters for each user profile.
The app also indicates whether the current connection supports various online activities like web browsing, music streaming, gaming, and 4K videos.
I appreciate the frictionless manner in which I can create profiles for members of the home, assigning devices, and put together schedules. As a parent I wish I had this sort of control in my house a decade ago when my son began his journey with phones, tablets, and laptops.
The Motosync app can also track data use on a household or individual basis for those with monthly data limits, and offers a direct chat link to the company’s support staff through a headset logo at the bottom of the screen.
The Q11’s performance is excellent when connected in relatively close proximity to a satellite or the main router. Similar to what I found with the MH7603, things work best when you spread the units out a bit. When they suggest a home of up to 5,000 square feet, they’re serious. I can blanket my entire home of around 1,800 square feet with just the main component.
The Q11 offers basic home network options, including port forwarding capability and UPnP, and provides built-in router security without any extra charge. And with the WPA3 and 160MHz channel support, it makes for a more attractive package than the MH7603.
Although there were occasional connectivity issues during the first week of use, the Motorola Q11 mesh system performed well overall in testing. The Motosync app works effectively, but users need to create an account, which could be a concern for some regarding data privacy. Don’t want to share your data? You’ll lose access to pretty much the full app.
I have a few quibbles with the experience but it’s not so much a Q11 problem as it is with Motorola/Minim. When I experienced connectivity issues with the mesh system, I had hoped to manually check for a software update but ultimately found that there was no option to do so. Further, there are no settings for updates or an update changelog available.
I had to do some trial and error in placement of the router and accompanying extenders and that was mostly after a few online searches. As it turns out, you can have your mesh system set up too close.
Also a pain point, there was no way to prefer a band for a connected device, even though the Q11 system does a decent job of finding the right band. However, it took a long time for new devices to connect to the 5GHz band, sometimes taking over 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
The Motorola Q11 is a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 mesh router kit that is easy to set up and configure. It is a great option for people on a budget and do not need all-out performance. However, it may not be suitable for all users, specifically those who need more Ethernet ports or USB connection for network-wide data storage.
Also worth considering, the app is helpful and seems to offer most of the features I want, but it takes time to figure out where things are located — if they are available at all.
The Q11 can be ordered as a single unit for $99 or in a three-pack for $199. Unless you have a rather large home, I would recommend going with a single unit for this model. It’s rated up to 2,000 square feet and should be more than sufficient for the average homeowner.
Spring has sprung and so have the offers on portable solar generators at the BLUETTI Spring Sale 2023, which will start on 7 March. Spring is the time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. There’s no better time to stock up on the must-haves for spring camping, hiking, picnicking and more.
AC500+B300S Starts at C$5699 (Was C$5999, Save C$300)
The AC500 & B300S system is designed for home backup and off-grid power. It comes with a built-in 5000W (10000W surge) inverter and a B300S LFP battery with a capacity of 3072Wh, extendable to 18.4kWh with six modules. This huge capacity and its UPS capability gives travelers peace of mind when away for several days. Once outages occur, AC500 can detect and switch over in 20ms to keep the house running as usual. So there’s no need to rush home to check the fridge, fish tank and security cameras have power. Moreover, BLUETTI app can provide real-time monitoring.
Featuring an efficient MPPT controller, the AC500 accepts solar input of up to 2400W on top of its ultra-fast 3000W AC charging. When AC and solar charging together, it reaches 5400W max input, charging this big machine in no time.
EB3A+PV120 Starts at C$638 (Was C$828, Save C$190)
At about 10 lbs, the BLUETTI EB3A is compact and portable for outdoor camping and short trips. It is rated for up to 600W and a 1200W surge wattage, enough to power multiple devices such as laptops, phones, mini-fridges, cameras, slow-cookers. It stores 268Wh in its LiFePO4 (LFP) battery, delivering 2500 cycles before reaching 80% capacity.
Outdoor enthusiasts won’t have to search for power outlets in the backcountry with this little power box in hand. EB3A can power a 10W light for 22 hours, a 60W car fridge for 4 hours and an 80W TV for 3 hours straight. On a full charge, it will power a 60W laptop for 4 hours. When connected to solar panels for max 200W charging, the EB3A allows longer outdoor stays. Plus, the BLUETTI App allows to monitor and control in real time from anywhere for ongoing management.
EB70S+PV120 Starts at C$1018 (Was C$1198, Save C$180)
This portable powerhouses is ideal for camping, traveling, overlanding and other outdoor adventures. The EB70S is updated in output, 800W continuous and1400W surge, and larger capacity of 716Wh. It can power up to 12 devices simultaneously with its versatile DC or AC outputs. A single charge will run a 75W television and a 90W mini fridge for over 8 or 6.8 hours. Even if it runs out of power, fast solar and in-car charging can quickly replenish it. There will always be plenty of power on the go.
AC300+2/B300 Starts at C$6498 (Was C$7397, Save C$899)
Featuring a 3000W inverter with 16 outputs, the AC300 is modular in design. Connect four 3072Wh B300 expansion batteries for a whopping 12288Wh capacity. Whether it’s building a vanlife power system or providing enough power for glamping, DIY, gardening and more, the AC300+B300 combo will exceed expectations.
Power cuts drive people mad, fearing spoiled food in fridges and piles of smelly laundry. Fortunately, this will not happen with the AC300&B300, which can run a 700W refrigerator for 3.7 hours and a 500W washing machine for 5.2 hours.
AC200MAX+B300 Starts at C$4598 (Was C$5398, Save C$800)
Following on from the popular AC200P, the AC200Max takes the technology to the next level, offering the option to expand with additional battery modules, such as two B230s at 6,144Wh and two B300s at 8,192Wh. Standalone, it has 2,048Wh in its belly and can deliver 2,200W to multiple devices via its 14 outlets and two top-mounted wireless charging pads. It’s a versatile and budget-friendly power backup for indoors and out.
AC200P+3/PV350 Starts at C$4746 (Was C$5296, Save C$550)
Packed with a 2000W inverter and a 2000Wh LiFePO4 battery, the AC200P is compact and portable for outdoor activities and emergency backup. Its capacity can also be extended to 4048Wh and 5072Wh respectively when connected to the B230 or B300. 17 versatile outlets ensure that any device can be charged in time.
BLUETTI panels use monocrystalline cells with up to 23.4% efficiency. Covered with ETFE material and equipped with an IP65 junction box, they are designed to withstand all scratches and splashes. They are also easy to store and transport thanks to their fold-and-go design. Especially, the PV420 is the latest innovation that can produce 420W power from sunlight, speeding up charging greatly. It has hit the shelf on BLUETTI’s official website on February 28. In nature, solar panels are a must-have, providing endless clean energy for use whenever it is needed.
About BLUETTI
With over 10 years of industry experience, BLUETTI has tried to stay true to a sustainable future through green energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use while delivering an exceptional eco-friendly experience for everyone and the world. BLUETTI is making its presence in 70+ countries and is trusted by millions of customers across the globe. For more information, please visit BLUETTI online at https://www.bluettipower.ca/.
