Asus finally took the wraps off its ROG Phone 6D and 6D Ultimate. Featuring plenty of power and an amazing cooling system, this phone promises to keep you gaming with sustained power.
Both models will feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9000+ chipset. The standard 6D will have 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of storage. The Ultimate ups the ante to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
The display, camera, and battery will not see an upgrade over the original ROG Phone 6. Both the ROG Phone 6D and 6D Ultimate will have a 6.78-inch OLED display equipped with a 165Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color depth, and HDR10+ capabilities. They will be protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The triple camera setup will consist of a 50MP 1/1.56″ sensor (f/1.9) main lens, a 13MP (f/2.2) ultrawide lens, and a 5MP macro camera. The front-facing selfie camera will have a 12MP sensor. The battery capacity comes in at 6,000 mAh and supports up to 65W fast charging.
To cool the Asus ROG Phone 6D, Asus developed the GameCool 6 cooling system. This advanced cooling system works to dissipate heat from your device by incorporating three different approaches to cooling. The 6D Ultimate allows you to take the cooling even further, allowing the AeroActive Cooler 6 accessory to directly connect to it. The AeroActive Cooler 6 will connect through a dedicated portal, allowing it to interact and directly remove heat from the CPU.
This device will not be coming to the U.S. but will be available in the UK. It will come in Space Gray and cost £799 for the 6D and £1,199 for the 6D Ultimate. The AeroActive Cooler 6 accessory will cost €89.
Spotify wants its service to be your premiere destination for music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Starting today, U.S.-based Spotify users are gaining the ability to purchase and listen to more than 300,000 audiobooks. With titles coming from publishers like Penguin Random House, Hachette Book Group, Simon & Schuster, as well as independent authors.
Unfortunately, this is not part of the Spotify subscription service. You will have to buy the audiobooks. The play button will have a lock icon, indicating that you must pay to listen to it. The purchase will be on a web page and not within the app itself.
Spotify is looking to alternative payment models, including subscriptions and ad-supported models. Spotify indicated it is getting into the audiobook space because it is growing 20% year over year. The audiobook market currently represents about 6%-7% of book sales.
After purchasing your audiobook from Spotify, you will be able to download it for offline listening, utilize automatic bookmarking to save your place, control the playback speed and rate the book. Spotify has entered a new market before with podcasts. But can the streaming giant knock Amazon from its perch? Only time will tell, but more options can only help potential audiobook consumers.
Eufy has been making quality home products for a few years now, slowly and steadily growing its presence. The Anker sub-brand covers markets like home cleaning, pets, and even home security under the Eufy umbrella. The company’s new Clean H20 vacuum wants to tackle any mess you have in your car and home.
I’ve had the chance to use one of these for the last few weeks and have come away with a few thoughts. Here’s my review of the new device.
Design
The basic design of the Clean H20 from eufy is familiar. The H20 immediately harkens back to traditional “dust-buster” handheld vacuums we’ve all grown up with. However, eufy has made a great effort to ensure it’s powered by modern tech and provides flexible cleaning options with attachments.
The wand-style eufy Clean H20 has a very comfortable hand that leads to the cyclone-powered vacuum. Above the stem handle, are a power button and a suction mode button. The modes can be set for maximum power or eco-mode to tackle either tough or normal messes.
The eufy Clean H20 comes in a nice carrying case that also houses the official attachments. Here you’ll find a brush head, extension hose with a crevice tool, and charging accessories. The charging portion is above average as you’d expect from Anker. You get a USB-A to USB-C cable with quick charge and a standard 12V socket car charger.
Internally, eufy has included a motor capable of a maximum vacuum of 40 watts. In eco-mode, I’d estimate this is around half-powered. The filtration system is a bagless design with a removable bin for easy dumping and cleaning of the filth.
Performance
I’ve found the eufy Clean H20 to be a great addition to my car cleaning routine. It’s never going to replace a full-sized shop vacuum but really makes regular maintenance a breeze. The attachments come in handy and make sense for the car interiors. The brush is easy on your upholstery and the crevice-hosed attachment is awesome for seat cushions and hard-to-reach spots.
At just under 1.5lbs, the Clean H20 is also easy to wield. I never found myself getting fatigued while using the travel vac. The suction is also just right for most debris you’d find in your car with normal use. Once you do need that extra horsepower, the Max button easily ups the vortex to take care of most instances.
Battery Life
Eufy rates the Clean H20 vacuum to last up to 30 minutes of Eco-mode usage. Opting for the Max option drops your total time down to around 10 minutes. I’d say this is fairly accurate and leaves you with plenty of endurance to clean your entire car interior.
When you do need to charge you can easily top off the power supply with the included charging accessories. The Anker socket charger supports fast charging via USB-C to get you back to full power in under one hour.
Conclusion
The eufy Clean H20 is a handy addition to anyone’s automobile. The pint-size vacuum comes with flexible attachments, fast charging in the box, and even fits in my cup holder for storage. Anker’s home division has been killing it lately and the Clean H20 is another home run.
The Clean H20 can be purchased for $120 either black or white colorways. At the moment using code WS24WH20 will get you a discount of $30 at checkout on the eufy website. While that’s still a little over the normal impulse purchase, I think it’s still worth it.
The Recon Cloud Hybrid Controller, the brand-new addition to the Turtle Beach controller lineup, is the company’s first mobile gaming controller. Xbox Recon Cloud Hybrid Controller is designed for mobile gamers using compatible with Android, Xbox, and PC. It was created and built by the same team behind Turtle Beach’s award-winning Recon Controller, REACT-R Controller, and VelocityOne Flight products.
Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Hybrid Controller
Turtle Beach’s Recon Cloud boasts more than 30 hours of battery life and rapid play and charge capabilities for all-day gaming while travelling. The controller also has a movable phone clip, which safely holds any compatible Android phone above the controller, regardless of size, even those with cases. The clip then transforms into a tabletop stand when it is removed.
Additionally, it comes with a braided USB cable that is 10 feet long that can be linked to a PC or a console to enable audio capabilities like Superhuman Hearing, personalized audio presets, and more for those platforms. Players using the controller in wired mode can access all these audio choices.
The Recon Cloud Hybrid Controller blends the best of both worlds for mobile gamers on Xbox and PC. All Android phones are compatible with the Recon Cloud.
“The response to our first wave of console and PC gaming controllers has been overwhelmingly positive, and now we’re further expanding our reach in this market to give mobile gamers the same uncompromised, award-winning controls,” said Juergen Stark, CEO of Turtle Beach Corporation. “The Recon Cloud is the first of our expanded lineup of mobile controllers launching this year, with additional new products designed for iOS and other consoles coming soon.”
The Recon Cloud Hybrid Controller is scheduled to be on sale on October 16. It is already available for pre-order for $99.99. It comes in Black and Magma Blue color options.
For more information on the Turtle Beach controllers, gaming headsets, simulation products, and other gaming accessories, visit the official website.
Nothing took to Twitter to play with its fanbase a bit by tweeting, “Sublime. Coming Soon.” That’s it, that is all they said and it’s all we know.
They did continue the company’s trend of using animals to make an announcement. Included in the tweet is a photo of a Glasswing butterfly (thanks Google Lens).
I’m sure the Glasswing butterfly ties into the company’s use of clear cases on its devices. They like allowing you to see some of the device’s internal components. Nothing has already released a phone (which isn’t coming to the US) and the Ear 1 earbuds.
Hopefully, Nothing is true to their word and make an announcement soon. As to what it is, your guess is as good as ours. Here’s looking forward to a beautiful device. Maybe a US-bound phone and not something like an external charger.
Motorola has revealed the new entry-level devices, Moto E22 and Moto E22i. The recently introduced smartphones in the E-series lineup include 4,020mAh batteries, 6.5-inch screens with 90Hz refresh rates, and MediaTek Helio G37 SoCs. Entry-level devices will be released in the upcoming weeks for several markets.
Moto E22 and Moto E22i specs and prices
Moto E22 and Moto E22i have a 6.5-inch HD+ 90Hz refresh rate display. According to Motorola, when auto mode is on, the refresh rate will automatically change between 90Hz and 60Hz. The devices powered by the MediaTek Helio G37 SoC combine 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. There is an integrated microSD card slot.
The display contains a waterdrop notch with a 5-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. The new E22 series comes with dual rear cameras. A 16-megapixel AI-powered primary camera, a 2-megapixel depth sensor, and an LED flash are all located on the E22’s back panel.
Dual Capture, a feature of the Moto E22, enables users to simultaneously take pictures and films using the front and back cameras. Software options like Time Lapse are also available on the Moto e22i.
Moto E22 runs Android 12, and the Moto E22i runs Android 12 Go edition. It is a first for the Moto E series, the new entry-level devices include stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos. They contain a 4,020mAh battery that can be charged at 10W.
Additionally, they receive side-mounted fingerprint sensors and the Activate Power Touch function, which enables users to double-tap the fingerprint reader to launch app shortcuts. The Moto E22 has a 3.5mm audio connector, 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and a USB-C connector.
The Moto E22 costs 139.99 euros in Europe. It comes in shades including Crystal Blue and Astro Black. The E22i, on the other hand, costs 129.99 euros. It is available in Graphite Gray and Winter White. Both models will be available in the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East.
While we’re eager to see the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, we know that neither of these new phones will be a small model for people who like tiny phones.
If you’re the type who prefers a more pocketable, one-hand phone experience, you might be pleased to learn that a recent rumor claims Google is developing a small Pixel flagship alternative.
Can the Small Google Pixel survive?
A recent report suggests that Google is developing a Pixel phone with a small screen. Chinese Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station said that Google had “polished a small-screen machine” in development. Although details are few, what is known suggests that the flagship alternative may have a hole-punch selfie camera in the display’s center.
The report stated that the device has the codename “neila,” with no release date. In addition, it would likely be powered by Google’s Tensor chipset for flagship performance, given the current Pixel devices.
Additionally, the phone will look like the most recent Pixel models. The design will resemble the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series. For example, Google’s latest small phone is the Pixel 6a, which has a 6.1-inch screen. The Pixel 6a features a similar design to the Pixel 6 series with a slightly smaller screen, but the specs aren’t as impressive as the flagship series.
The accuracy of the Google “small Pixel” leak is debatable due to the market trend toward smaller devices. Nowadays, consumers appear to choose bigger smartphones, and Apple is the best example. After only two years, the iPhone 14 series eliminates the “Mini” and expands the selection with a larger model.
On the other hand, the upcoming Pixel 7 series will be unveiled on October 6. The early Pixel 7 hands-on video shows that the base Pixel 7 will be slightly shorter than the Pixel 6 and has smaller bezels. The Pixel 7 Pro looks quite like the Pixel 6 Pro but is a bit smaller and broader.
Over the past few years, Govee has made a name for itself in smart home lighting like no other. It has done this by creating a lineup of unique lighting products and constantly adding features to its fantastic smartphone app.
The Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels come in the shape of a hexagon with an accent on the inside to give it a 3D cube appearance. They are sold in packs of 10 with cables to connect everything together and adhesive on the back of each panel to install on the wall.
The Neon Rope Light comes rolled up in the box with everything needed for installation, including brackets with adhesive on the back and screws if you choose a more permanent solution.
Installation
Installing these lights from Govee can be a little daunting because you’re attaching them directly to the wall. Govee tries to make this as easy as possible with video tutorials, an included bubble level, and a couple of extra adhesive strips in case of mistakes. Regardless, it’s still time-consuming and you’re going to have to be careful.
Govee provides you with several preset design options when installing the Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels or you can create your own. I went with one of the presets and the app walks you through the installation step-by-step, including showing where to plug in each cable since each light connects to the next one in the pattern. You’ll still want to take your time and be careful, because with only two spare 3M strips in the box, you don’t get much room for errors.
Glide Hexa Pro Light Panel install
Neon Rope Light install
Neon Rope Light install
The Govee Neon Rope Light requires even more caution, because it is recommended to not remove the brackets after installation. Doing so can remove the paint and damage your walls. As you can see, I didn’t do the best installation with mine. I simply ran out of space, and wasn’t sure what to do with it. Now, I’m going to pay for it when I attempt to remove it later on.
Don’t be like me. Use one of the preset designs in the app, and it would help if you had a friend around while setting it up. Although, while the presets in the app are great, it doesn’t give you a step-by-step installation walkthrough like with the Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels. This makes it a much more challenging install.
User experience
Govee excels at features and usability. The company is constantly updating its app and products with new features that really makes its lights shine. While I would have been perfectly content with the number of scenes and customizations the lights provide by default, Govee has taken it to a whole new level with Razer Chroma integration.
For the uninitiated, Razer Chroma is software that runs on your PC and allows lights that support it to sync up together. This can be as simple as setting one singular color between your mouse, keyboard, and other compatible lights–such as the Govee Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels and Neon Rope Light.
However, where the Razer Chroma integration really impresses, is when you use it combined with supported games. One of the best examples of this integration is Apex Legends, which syncs your lights and changes the color during banner transitions, when picking up loot or taking damage, and more.
It turns your gaming session into a more interactive experience by giving you dynamic visual indicators in your room. Basically, it looks stunning and makes the games come to life. It reminds me of Govee’s Flow Pro Light Bars I reviewed and how much they enhanced my movie-watching experience.
The only downside is that only a limited number of games support Razer Chroma, but even without Chroma integration, the Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels and Neon Rope Light have a lot to offer. There are over 20 preset scenes to choose from with mesmerizing color schemes, along with options to customize some scenes. Additionally, there are modes for reacting to music and you can even create your own DIY scenes.
Glide Hexa Pro Light Panel
Glide Hexa Pro Light Panel
Glide Hexa Pro Light Panel
Glide Hexa Pro Light Panel
Neon Rope Light
Neon Rope Light
Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to install the Govee desktop app and I noticed that the Razer Chroma integration wouldn’t function properly unless I had the app open and running.
Final thoughts
Govee has quickly become one of my favorite companies. I can’t get enough of its smart lighting products, and I’m consistently impressed with the polish and features of the app. Even without the integration with Razer Chroma, the Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels and Neon Rope Light are remarkable products, the partnership with Razer is just icing on the cake.
My only criticisms would be with the installation of the Neon Rope Light. For starters, it uses a massive plug that will easily block off two or more outlets on your surge protector. Then, you really need to have a design in mind before installing, and even then, it helps to have an extra set of hands. Making a mistake could be costly, because removing the brackets will most likely cause damage to your paint job.
Otherwise, these are a couple of amazing smart lights that will be an upgrade for any room in your home and you’ll love showing them off to your friends. The Govee Glide Hexa Pro Light Panels currently retail for $200, while the Neon Rope Light sells for $120, and both can be purchased from Amazon or Govee’s website.
Google Photos has been my go-to storage location for all of my photos and videos for years now. It started as a cloud-based backup location in case I ever lost or damaged my phone. Over the years, Google has implemented new features and updates that have slowly turned it into my default gallery.
Google has updated its Photos app yet again. Adding new features to Memories and making it even easier to share them with family and friends. My favorite feature in Google Photos is Memories. I love how it digs up forgotten photos and presents them in a fun way for my family and me to relive those moments. My all-time favorites are the Then and Now feature, which takes similar shots of my kids over the years and shows them growing up.
Memories updates
Google is bringing more video moments to its Memories. Photos will automatically select and trim your longer videos and send you the most meaningful part of them. Google is making still photos more dynamic by utilizing a subtle zoom that brings movement to your Memories and beginning next month, they will start adding instrumental music to some Memories.
Google Photos is adding a new feature called Styles. Graphic art will automatically be added to your Memories to help make them pop. To celebrate the launch, Photos will have limited-time styles from artists Shantell Martin and Lisa Cogdon.
You can now pick your photos, rearrange the layout and select your own designs with the new collage editor. When you are done making your collage you can utilize the new share entire Memories with your friends and family feature. Select your favorite memories, select your friends and family and share all of your favorite Google-created Memories.
With summer coming to a close and fall quickly approaching, Snapchat unveiled its latest features just in time for the start of school. These features focus on making your conversations easier to find and easier to engage with.
With iOS 16 out in the wild, Snapchat has rolled out new Lock Screen Widgets. You won’t have to unlock your phone, head to the app, and go looking for your conversation with your best friend. Now you can keep your chats on your lock screen, ready for you with just a single tap.
In addition to widgets, Snapchat is rolling out new Chat Shortcuts. Shortcuts make it easier to find unread Snaps and Chats, missed calls, or replies to your stories. Shortcuts will also let you know when a birthday is coming up, saving you from that awkward feeling when you realize you missed it.
The final features coming are a new tool called Question Stickers and Snapchat for Web. Question Stickers allows you to add stickers to your Snap story. Letting you ask your viewers to respond to specific questions from within your Story. You can now keep your conversations going from any device at web.snapchat.com.
