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RealWear Launches Arc 3 Headset with AI-Powered Voice OS for Frontline Workers

Scott Webster
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RealWear Launches Arc 3 Headset with AI-Powered Voice OS for Frontline Workers

RealWear has announced the Arc 3, a next-generation assisted reality headset paired with the new Ari OS platform, aiming to make voice-driven computing as natural as conversation. The company, based in Vancouver, WA, says the combination will improve safety, productivity, and accessibility for frontline workers across manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and other high-demand industries.

Smarter Tools for Tough Jobs

Frontline workers often face the challenge of accessing critical information without compromising safety or efficiency. RealWear’s hands-free approach allows users to view data, take calls, and collaborate remotely while keeping their hands free, which is crucial in environments that require helmets, gloves, or other protective gear.

The Arc 3, weighing just 179 grams, brings a fresh design language to the industrial headset category. It features a see-through display with double retina resolution and a dual-camera setup that captures professional-grade images. Compared to earlier models, RealWear claims a 40% increase in visible detail, helping users clearly read diagrams, digital overlays, or video feeds even in challenging lighting conditions.

A woman wearing the RealWear Arc 3 assisted reality headset, showcasing its sleek design and integrated display light against a dark background.

Ari OS: Talk to Get Things Done

Alongside the new hardware, RealWear introduced Ari OS, a voice-first operating system designed for natural language interaction. Workers can perform everyday tasks such as calling, messaging, capturing photos, or adjusting settings without relying on rigid command structures. The company says Ari OS brings “hands-free, voice-first computing” into practical reality by integrating AI-assisted workflows that understand conversational speech.

Ari OS will debut on the Arc 3 and roll out to RealWear’s existing lineup, including the Navigator 520. RealWear also intends to license the platform to other hardware makers, creating a unified software ecosystem for AR and assisted reality devices.

CEO Sebastian Beetschen described the move as a major step toward democratizing AI tools for frontline workers. “Arc 3 delivers a lighter, more comfortable solution for environments like manufacturing, robotics, and healthcare,” Beetschen said. “With Ari OS, we’re extending that capability to a wider range of professionals—it’ll be as seamless as talking to ChatGPT.”

Designed for Everyday Environments

While RealWear’s earlier models were engineered for rugged industrial settings, the Arc 3 targets new spaces where mobility and comfort matter just as much as durability. The refined form factor makes it better suited for long shifts or all-day wear, expanding its use into sectors like warehousing, logistics, and clinical operations.

RealWear says the headset’s “extensive eye box” allows for a more natural display position, keeping digital information within view but out of the way of the user’s primary focus. It’s part of the company’s ongoing effort to reduce visual clutter and cognitive load for workers juggling multiple tasks.

Proven Partnerships and Real-World Results

RealWear’s solutions are already in use across several major industries, including automotive and energy. BMW of North America’s VP of Aftersales, Claus Eberhart, credited the platform with boosting service efficiency: “By solving issues faster, we get customers back into their cars sooner.” Goodyear’s VP of Global Manufacturing and Engineering, Dallas Olson, added that Microsoft Teams on RealWear has been essential for project execution, calling it “a dramatic shift for our organization.”

Subscription Model and Availability

The Arc 3 is available immediately through a new annual subscription model that includes device upgrades, repairs, replacements, and ongoing support, designed to simplify ownership and maintenance for enterprise users.

More information about the Arc 3 headset and Ari OS can be found on RealWear’s official website.

Everblog Introduces the Digital Family Calendar to Streamline Household Life

Scott Webster
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0
Everblog Introduces the Digital Family Calendar to Streamline Household Life

Everblog has launched the Everblog Digital Family Calendar, a connected display designed to bring structure and calm to busy households. The new product combines a modern aesthetic with practical smart features that help families coordinate schedules, manage chores, and stay connected without the clutter of sticky notes or constant group texts.

A Central Hub for Everyday Organization

The Everblog Digital Family Calendar is built for the kind of household that juggles overlapping appointments, sports practices, grocery runs, and the occasional forgotten school project. The device syncs seamlessly with Google Calendar and iCal, ensuring everyone’s schedules are visible in one shared space.

But Everblog’s approach goes beyond just date management. The calendar includes a built-in chore system, allowing parents to assign tasks and track completion, while kids can earn rewards for helping around the house. There’s even meal planning and shopping list integration, so the week’s dinners, and the ingredients needed, can be organized right from the same dashboard.

Voice control adds another layer of convenience, letting users add reminders or update tasks hands-free. When not in use for scheduling, the display transforms into a digital photo frame, showcasing family photos or even doubling as a kitchen entertainment hub for watching shows or cooking tutorials.

Designed for Real Families

Christina Yang, product manager at Everblog, explained the intent behind the product’s development:

“We wanted to create a product that helps families stay organized without adding more stress. The Everblog Digital Family Calendar helps parents manage their day-to-day lives, while also bringing the family closer together.”

That sentiment is reflected in the calendar’s design philosophy. Rather than focusing purely on productivity, Everblog aims to make daily coordination feel more collaborative and less chaotic. The interface is built for clarity with simple visuals, color-coded users, and quick glances rather than deep menus.

Pricing and Availability

The Everblog Digital Family Calendar is now available for purchase at Everblog.com for $699 USD, with an introductory launch offer bringing the price down to $499 USD. The product will also be available on Amazon by the end of October.

About Everblog

Based in Los Angeles, Everblog develops family-oriented technology designed to simplify and enrich home life. Its mission is to create tools that encourage communication, reduce stress, and help families spend less time managing the calendar, and more time enjoying it. More details about the Everblog Digital Family Calendar can be found at Everblog.com.

OXS Launches Thunder Duo: First Studio-Grade Dolby Atmos Gaming Speakers

Jude Chukwuemeka
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0
OXS Launches Thunder Duo: First Studio-Grade Dolby Atmos Gaming Speakers

OXS today announced the launch of the Thunder Duo on Kickstarter, a revolutionary 5.1.2 channel gaming speaker that brings true Dolby Atmos immersion to desktop setups.

Following its successful debut at IFA and Gamescom 2025, the Thunder Duo is set to become a key component of OXS’s growing gaming and home audio lineup.

Crafted to deliver cinematic sound without the need for ceiling speakers or virtual surround solutions, it creates a genuine 360-degree audio experience through upward-firing sky channels, coaxial front drivers, and the innovative Xspace spatial audio engine.

Screenshot

Three Modular Configurations: Duo, Duo X, and Duo Max

The Thunder Duo range is available in three distinct configurations.

The Thunder Duo Max leads the series with a wireless subwoofer that delivers deep, powerful low-end response—creating cinema-grade impact without cables or sync issues.

The Thunder Duo X expands immersion to a full 5.1.2 system with a wireless headrest satellite neck speaker, offering authentic rear-channel surround that moves seamlessly with the listener.

The Thunder Duo serves as the 3.1.2 channel foundation, delivering 110W RMS (220W peak) of room-filling sound across spaces up to 220 square feet.

Studio-Grade Accuracy for Gamers and Creators

Engineered for both gamers and creators, the Thunder Duo lineup achieves monitor-level accuracy with alloy magnet drivers, dual DSP processing, and fluid-dynamics bass ports.

Distortion stays under 0.5 percent, achieving the standard of studio speakers. Every element—from gunfire and footsteps to cinematic scores and subtle audio cues—emerges with audiophile clarity.

Screenshot

Universal Compatibility, Easy Switching, and Reactive RGB Lighting

The system integrates seamlessly across platforms with HDMI 2.1, USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, and optical connections. Compatibility covers PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PC, VR headsets, mobile devices, and more.

Switching between sources is instant, without the need to reconnect cables. There are also 3 Audio Presets and 1 Custom mode, where the Custom EQ can be personalized through the product app to adjust EQ gain and each channel.

It comes with six-ring RGB flame effects across three zones, from which users can select from eight preset modes—Flame, Turbo, Lightning, Flow, Reflex, Waterfall, Breathe, and Jump; or customize colors and effects through the OXS Omni Xspace App.

Together with the angular spacecraft-inspired design, the Thunder Duo transforms any desk or living room into a futuristic battle station.

Screenshot

Seamless Wireless Pairing

Compact yet powerful, each speaker measures 7″ x 8.5″ x 10.9″ and fits neatly alongside 32-inch monitors while projecting audio with an upward tilt for precision listening.

The modular system is designed for growth, with neck speakers and subwoofers pairing wirelessly via a single USB dongle, ensuring easy upgrades and hassle-free setup. With the true Dolby Atmos integration, the OXS Thunder Duo series is set to redefine the gaming and home audio experience.

Availability and Price

The OXS Thunder Duo Max launches on Kickstarter today, featuring special early-backer prices: Thunder Duo $399 (RRP $549), Thunder Duo X $449 (RRP $649), and Thunder Duo Max $569 (RRP $849). Ahead of the launch, OXS has been hosting a pre-launch event on its official website, allowing users to place a fully refundable deposit to lock in the exclusive VIP offer.

OXS Brings Dolby Atmos to the Desktop with Thunder Duo Series

Scott Webster
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0
OXS Brings Dolby Atmos to the Desktop with Thunder Duo Series

OXS has officially launched its Thunder Duo range on Kickstarter, introducing what it calls the world’s first studio-grade gaming speaker systems with true Dolby Atmos integration. Following positive showings at IFA and Gamescom 2025, the Thunder Duo lineup arrives as the company’s boldest entry yet into high-fidelity gaming and creator audio.

A New Kind of Spatial Sound System

At the heart of the Thunder Duo experience is OXS’s Xspace spatial audio engine, working in tandem with coaxial front drivers and upward-firing sky channels to create genuine 360-degree immersion, no ceiling speakers required. The company says the system reproduces a full 5.1.2-channel surround environment with precise directional imaging for both cinematic and gameplay contexts.

The Thunder Duo family includes three configurations: the Thunder Duo, Thunder Duo X, and Thunder Duo Max.

  • Thunder Duo (3.1.2) serves as the foundation, pushing 110W RMS (220W peak) of clean audio with distortion under 0.5%.
  • Thunder Duo X adds a wireless neck speaker that acts as a dynamic rear-channel system, ideal for those who want movement-sensitive surround sound.
  • Thunder Duo Max goes all in with a wireless subwoofer that deepens bass response without cables or latency issues.
The OXS Thunder Duo speaker system features two compact speakers and a wireless subwoofer, designed for high-fidelity audio with RGB lighting effects.
Thunder Duo Max
A pair of OXS Thunder Duo gaming speakers with colorful LED lighting and a wireless neck speaker positioned in front, set against a dark gradient background.
Thunder Duo X
Two OXS Thunder Duo gaming speakers with colorful LED accents against a gradient background.
Thunder Duo

Each setup delivers a studio-like listening experience across gaming, streaming, and content creation, backed by alloy magnet drivers, dual DSP processing, and fluid-dynamics bass ports for consistent clarity and punch.

Designed for Seamless Connectivity

OXS made platform compatibility a priority. The Thunder Duo supports HDMI 2.1 (eARC, 4K@120Hz), USB-C, optical, and Bluetooth 5.3, making it compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, Steam Deck, VR headsets, and mobile devices. Users can switch between inputs instantly, skipping the tangle of cable swapping.

Three built-in audio presets and a customizable mode let listeners fine-tune EQ and channel gain through the OXS Omni Xspace app. The same app controls the system’s lighting; six RGB rings across three zones with eight visual effects like Flame, Turbo, and Waterfall, lending a touch of sci-fi to the minimalist design.

Compact, Modular, and Ready to Expand

Each speaker measures 7 x 8.5 x 10.9 inches, small enough to fit comfortably beside a 32-inch monitor yet angled for precise projection. The modular architecture means users can start small and upgrade later; the neck speaker and subwoofer pair wirelessly through a single USB dongle for plug-and-play expansion.

A pair of sleek black gaming speakers featuring green LED lighting on a marble table, set against a modern backdrop.

OXS’s approach targets gamers and creators who want audiophile-level accuracy without complex setup or bulky hardware. The goal: a true Dolby Atmos desktop solution that feels as powerful as it sounds.

Early Backer Pricing and Availability

The Thunder Duo series launches on Kickstarter October 28, 2025, with early-backer pricing starting at:

  • Thunder Duo – $399 (RRP $549)
  • Thunder Duo X – $449 (RRP $649)
  • Thunder Duo Max – $569 (RRP $849)

Ahead of the campaign, OXS is offering a VIP pre-launch program through its official website, where fans can secure the lowest prices by placing a fully refundable deposit, $349, $399, and $499 for the three models respectively. Deposits can be refunded at any time and are returned in full after final payment during the Kickstarter campaign.

Adobe MAX 2025: AI Takes Center Stage for Every Creator

Scott Webster
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Adobe MAX 2025: AI Takes Center Stage for Every Creator

At this year’s Adobe MAX conference in Los Angeles, the creative giant doubled down on artificial intelligence, unveiling a suite of tools designed to power what it calls “AI for every creator.” From casual designers to enterprise teams, Adobe’s updates spanned every stage of the creative process, ideation, creation, and production, marking one of the company’s most expansive AI pushes to date.

Firefly Evolves Into a Full Creative Hub

Adobe Firefly, once primarily known for image generation, now anchors Adobe’s creative ecosystem as an all-in-one hub for visual, audio, and video production. The platform’s latest upgrades give users studio-quality tools once reserved for professionals.

A collage showcasing the capabilities of Adobe Firefly Image Model 5, featuring diverse visual elements such as creative portraits, nature scenes, textures, and artistic representations.

New features include Generate Soundtrack, an AI-driven music tool that produces fully licensed, customizable audio tracks; Generate Speech, a text-to-speech system that supports multiple languages; and a new timeline-based video editor, offering creators a complete end-to-end video production environment.

Firefly’s collaborative surface, Firefly Boards, also got a major boost with new 3D rotation capabilities and improved tools for organizing and sharing visual concepts. Adobe even introduced Project Moonlight, an experimental “agentic AI” assistant that can coordinate across apps and tap into a creator’s social channels to suggest content ideas.

A collage showcasing diverse artistic images, including a person with patterned light on their face, a woman with illuminated eyes, a man in a yellow suit surrounded by flowers, surreal landscapes, a fish in a bowl, and a model adorned in vibrant flowers.

Under the hood, Adobe expanded Firefly’s model lineup to include the new Firefly Image Model 5, capable of native 4MP generation and lifelike photorealism, along with support for external partner models from Google, OpenAI, Runway, Topaz Labs, and ElevenLabs. The introduction of Firefly Custom Models allows creators to train personal models in their own style, a nod to the growing demand for brand consistency and creative ownership.

Creative Cloud Gets Smarter

Across its flagship Creative Cloud apps, Adobe rolled out a broad range of AI-powered tools designed to streamline repetitive tasks and boost precision.

Photoshop now features Generative Fill powered by partner models like Google Gemini 2.5 Flash and Black Forest Labs’ FLUX.1 Kontext, giving creators the ability to make specific, context-aware edits with plain language prompts. New Generative Upscale tools enhance low-resolution assets using Topaz Labs’ technology, while Harmonize helps composite elements more seamlessly into new environments.

A digitally enhanced image of a classic blue car parked on a street in a city, juxtaposed with a desert landscape featuring a different car in a natural setting, with a 'Remix' button overlay.
Boards
A vibrant digital illustration showcasing the 'Generate Soundtrack' feature, featuring abstract geometric shapes, a pool, and planets, set against a bright blue sky with clouds.
Generate Soundtrack
A digital interface showcasing a colorful video editing timeline with vibrant graphic elements, including pink and yellow abstract shapes, a green sneaker, and a bouquet of flowers.
Video Editor
A digital artwork showing a white vase on the left and a vibrant, flower-patterned vase on the right, with a prompt box asking to transform the white vase into a sculpture of blooming flowers.
Text-to-Video

Premiere Pro gains AI Object Mask, which automatically isolates people or objects in video frames for easier color grading and effects, and a redesigned masking suite for finer control. Lightroom’s Assisted Culling can now scan thousands of photos to pick the best shots based on focus, sharpness, and composition, perfect for photographers who spend more time sorting than shooting.

Adobe also previewed a Photoshop AI Assistant, letting users chat with an in-app agent to automate steps, surface “how-to” guidance, or handle batch edits while maintaining full creative control.

Expanding the Creative Economy

Adobe didn’t just focus on individual creators. Its enterprise suite, Adobe GenStudio, received new tools to help businesses scale branded content with generative AI and custom Firefly Foundry models trained on proprietary assets. Integrations with Amazon Ads, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Google Marketing Platform promise faster, more automated delivery of on-brand campaigns.

The company also announced a new partnership with YouTube, bringing Premiere’s mobile video editing tools directly into YouTube Shorts through a feature called Create for YouTube Shorts. Creators will soon be able to produce, edit, and publish polished content directly from within YouTube, complete with Adobe’s professional effects, transitions, and templates.

The Bigger Picture

Adobe’s leadership framed these announcements as part of a broader vision: making generative AI an everyday creative tool rather than a novelty. According to an internal survey shared during the event, 86% of creators worldwide already use generative AI, and 76% credit it with helping grow their businesses and brands.

David Wadhwani, Adobe’s president of digital media, put it simply: “Our AI at Adobe is made to create and built for the creators who paint the world with their imagination.”

PITAKA Unveils Sleek, Super-Protective iPhone 17 Case Collection: Skinny But Mighty!

Jude Chukwuemeka
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0
PITAKA Unveils Sleek, Super-Protective iPhone 17 Case Collection: Skinny But Mighty!

PITAKA, a pioneer in aramid fiber accessories, today announced the launch of its new iPhone 17 Series Case Collection, introducing three distinctive models that balance sleek design with cutting-edge protection. The Ultra-Slim Case, the Aramid ProGuard Case, and the Aramid UltraGuard Case redefine iPhone protection for those seeking elegance, resilience, and next-generation functionality.

The Ultra-Slim Case, starting at just 0.88mm and 17g, is designed for those who demand a minimalist profile without sacrificing performance. The Aramid ProGuard Case is for those who value robust protection while retaining slimness and sophistication. The flagship Aramid UltraGuard Case introduces the industry’s first full-cover Aramid fiber case, combining 3D thermoformed fiber with TPU for seamless durability and a premium feel.

To view the new collection, check out the following:

iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases: iPhone 17 Pro Max cases prioritize protection for the large device, often featuring reinforced corners and raised bezels against drops and the phone’s scratch-prone finish. A variety of styles exists, including ultra-slim, rugged, clear, and wallet designs. Many are MagSafe compatible, enhancing charging and accessory attachment.

iPhone 17 Pro Cases: These cases offer premium protection and varied styling for the device’s unique design and camera plateau. The market is saturated with options, including clear cases to show off the aluminum chassis, rugged shells with military-grade drop defense, and sleek finishes in leather, silicone, or TechWoven fabric.

iPhone Air Cases: iPhone 17 Air cases are designed to safeguard Apple’s ultra-thin, large-display model, focusing on minimal bulk. Manufacturers offer a diverse range, from basic bumpers and ultra-slim clear shells that maintain the phone’s sleek profile to more rugged, shockproof options.

iPhone 17 Cases: Pitaka’s iPhone 17 case collection is crafted primarily from lightweight, aerospace-grade aramid fiber, offering durable protection without bulk. The collection includes the Ultra-Slim Case (minimalist feel, features the innovative PitaTap capacitive button for camera control), the Aramid ProGuard Case (military-grade drop protection with corner cushioning), and the Aramid UltraGuard Case (full-cover protection with a refined look).

iPhone 17 Series Cases: Pitaka’s iPhone 17 series cases feature premium, aerospace-grade Aramid fiber construction for a lightweight yet incredibly strong form factor. The lineup includes the minimalist Ultra-Slim case, the military-grade drop-tested Aramid ProGuard, and the protective Aramid UltraGuard.

PITAKA is popularly known as a lifestyle brand focusing on material innovation and humanistic spirits. The brand links cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques to daily supplies, blending the worlds of fashion, design, culture, and creativity. Its mission is to build daily essentials rich in wisdom, embracing diverse modern lifestyles and inspiring a simple, sustainable, and aesthetically fluid way of living for those who value minimalism and purposeful design.

These cases are available in unique woven finishes and are fully compatible with PITAKA’s MagEZ ecosystem. The Ultra-Slim series cases are available on the official website www.ipitaka.com, with Amazon US following later.

Soundcore Sleep A30 Review

Scott Webster
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0
Soundcore Sleep A30 Review

If you have ever tried to fall asleep next to a snorer or under a vent that hums like distant traffic, you know the difference between “pretty quiet” and “quiet enough to sleep.” Soundcore’s Sleep A30 aims squarely at the latter.

It brings active noise cancellation to the brand’s sleep earbuds, adds adaptive snore masking, and keeps the low-profile fit that side sleepers actually tolerate for eight hours. The idea is smart. The execution is strong in places, uneven in others.

Soundcore’s Sleep A30 blends a featherlight, side-sleeper-friendly design with adaptive snore masking that actually reacts in real time, turning a partner’s nightly symphony into the background noise of a good night’s sleep.

At a Glance

A hand holding a compact white charging case for sleep earbuds, with a bed and pillows in the background.
  • What it is: ultra-slim sleep earbuds with smart ANC, on-device sound library, adaptive snore masking, and Bluetooth streaming
  • Who they are for: side sleepers and partners of snorers who can live with battery compromises
  • What stands out: comfort, fit kit, effective snore masking that reacts in real time, deep app customization
  • What holds it back: ANC strength is modest, battery can miss a full night with ANC plus Bluetooth, no wireless charging, some features are app-dependent
  • Price: about $229.99 at launch

Design and Comfort: Built for the Pillow Test

The A30 buds are small, light, and shaped to sit flush in the concha so your ear is not fighting a hard bump against the pillow. At roughly three grams per bud with short nozzles and very soft silicone, they disappear faster than most true wireless sets I have tried in bed.

Soundcore ships seven pairs of tips, including memory foam, plus three sizes of soft wings. This matters more here than it does with day earbuds. A gentle, secure seal means less pressure, better passive isolation, and a lower masking volume to get the same effect. If your ears are fussy, expect a night or two of fiddling before the fit clicks.

Image of the Soundcore Sleep A30 earbud tips and wings with various sizes labeled in a guide, alongside a pink pen and notebook.

ANC and Snore Masking: Good Together, Not a Silver Bullet

There are two parts to the quieting story.

Smart ANC: helps with steady, low-frequency noises like HVAC, fans, or a distant road. It is not on the level of over-ear travel headphones, and it does not magically erase speech. Think of it as lowering the room’s noise floor so your masking sounds do not have to work as hard.

Adaptive Snore Masking: this is the star of the show and the main reason you’re considering the earbuds. The charging case has a mic that listens for snoring within about five feet, then nudges the masking sound to a frequency and level that better covers what it hears.

In practice, this works. It does not delete snores, but it smooths them into the bed of noise you picked. Many people find that once masking is at roughly half volume or a touch higher, spikes in snoring stop pulling you back to the surface.

Close-up of an ear with a sleep earbud inserted, showcasing its slim design and fit.

Together, ANC plus masking are more effective than either alone. If your main enemy is a box fan or a window unit, ANC carries more weight. If it is a human next to you, let masking do the heavy lifting.

The App: Powerful, Sometimes too Involved

Soundcore’s app is the control room and where you’ll spend time before heading off to la la land. You’ll choose and tweak soundscapes, download tracks for local playback, adjust the AI brainwave audio, and set how aggressive masking should be.

The library is broad and better than most, with clean white, pink, and brown noise plus richer scenes that avoid the muddy hiss you get on cheap apps.

Two things to note here:

Sleep tracking exists, but accuracy can vary and it only works with local sounds, not when you stream over Bluetooth. If you live on podcasts, you will not get a sleep report. You’d be wise to consider a wearable for data tracking and insight.

Feature choices matter. Early on, a “Smart Sleep Onset” setting paused Bluetooth when it thought you were asleep. That is now optional, which is the right move, but it is a good reminder that your experience hinges largely on software defaults.

A person holding a charging case for Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds, with the earbuds illuminated inside, against a soft bedding background.

Battery and Charging: Plan your Mode

This is where the A30 shows the cost of being tiny.

  • Local mode, ANC on: can reach a full night for many people, but it is tight if you need nine hours or run masking louder.
  • Bluetooth streaming plus ANC: expect less. With both on, plenty of users end up shy of morning.
  • The case: compact and pocketable, charged by USB-C. There is no wireless charging, which feels like a miss for a nightstand device at this price.

If you need guaranteed eight-plus hours, stick to local sounds with ANC, or lower the masking volume a notch. If you rely on streaming for the whole night, these may frustrate you.

Sound Quality: Better Than You’d Expect for Sleep

For what they are, the A30s sound good. Spoken word is clear, which helps if you wind down with an audiobook. Music is warm with a little extra bass and polite highs, not hi-fi, but pleasant. More importantly, the built-in soundscapes are clean and loop well, so you do not notice patterns or seams at three in the morning.

A close-up image of a hand holding a small white sleep earbud, showcasing its compact and ergonomic design.
A person holding a charging case with three blue LED lights, positioned above a bed with white pillows.
A person holding a white wireless sleep earbud with a soft silicone tip, against a blurred background of a bed.

Who Should Buy This

  • Partners of snorers: yes. Adaptive masking is the feature you actually feel.
  • Side sleepers in noisy apartments: yes, especially if HVAC drone is the main issue.
  • All-night streamers: think twice. Local sounds are the safer path here.
  • ANC purists: temper expectations. This is sleep-grade ANC, not Bose-on-a-plane.

What I Would Like to See Next

Wireless charging on the case, a bit more ANC headroom, and smarter battery options that auto-dial masking down over time to stretch to morning.

Verdict

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.

The A30 earns its place for people who specifically need adaptive masking and can work within the battery window. At full retail, I would call it a targeted purchase. On sale, it becomes easy to recommend, especially to the right sleeper.

Soundcore pushes the category forward by pairing an excellent sleep fit with adaptive masking and usable ANC. Comfort and the snore system are genuinely strong. Battery life and software choices demand a little management.

If snoring is your main villain and you can run local sounds with ANC, the A30 can be a night changer. If you need Bluetooth streaming from lights out to alarm every single night, a simpler setup may suit you better.

Pick up a pair from Soundcore for about $230 in Moonlit White or Mist Green.

Ohsnap Launches MCON: A Pocket-Sized Revolution for Mobile Gaming

Scott Webster
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0
Ohsnap Launches MCON: A Pocket-Sized Revolution for Mobile Gaming

Ohsnap, the North Carolina-based brand behind some of the most inventive smartphone accessories of recent years, has officially launched MCON, a compact magnetic controller that turns ordinary smartphones into portable gaming consoles. Following a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $1.7 million from more than 16,000 backers, MCON is now available for purchase at ohsnap.com.

At less than an inch thick, MCON is built to stay attached to your phone without getting in the way. It’s slim enough to slip into a pocket and smart enough to switch from “game mode” to “life mode” with a simple slide. The idea: gaming anywhere, anytime, and with no clamps, cables, or compromises.

Compact Form, Console Feel

A compact magnetic gaming controller designed for smartphones, featuring deployable ergonomic grips and a built-in kickstand for tabletop use.

Ohsnap promises that MCON delivers console-grade control in a pocket-sized frame. The controller uses what the company calls Mag-Res joysticks, a proprietary design offering high precision, low power draw, and resistance to the dreaded stick drift that plagues many competitors.

Each button was refined for silent operation, and the analog triggers are tuned for responsive, fluid input. When folded, the joysticks and buttons tuck neatly away to prevent damage or accidental presses. A built-in gyroscope adds motion controls for games that support tilt-based aiming, steering, or flight maneuvers.

Comfort also gets attention here. MCON features deployable ergonomic grips that lock into place for extended sessions, reducing strain without adding bulk when packed away.

Three Ways to Play

MCON supports multiple play modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV-connected. In handheld mode, it slides open to cradle your phone securely. For tabletop use, players can remove the front cover, pop out the built-in kickstand, and connect via Bluetooth in “Kickback Mode.”

Image showing the MCON Dock, designed for charging and docking smartphones for gaming, with a TV displaying a game in the background.

Perhaps the most intriguing setup is for iPhone users, who can dock their device and cast games directly to a TV through the optional MCON Dock. The dock’s HDMI connection delivers near-zero latency and a 1000Hz polling rate, turning any living room into a full-fledged gaming station. Combined with the Apple iOS26 Games app, players can browse, launch, and switch between titles, all with console-like responsiveness.

Seamless Transitions Between Work and Play

Unlike bulky clamp-on controllers, MCON was designed for quick transitions. Need to respond to a text mid-match? Simply slide the controller closed, and the phone instantly returns to its standard mode, no disconnecting or detaching required. The innovative sliding mechanism works with most phones and orientations, allowing near-instant setup regardless of device size.

From Dorm Room Prototype to Commercial Reality

The story behind MCON is as inventive as the product itself. The concept originated with Josh King, then a 19-year-old student frustrated by the limits of mobile gaming. King built an early prototype, a compact MagSafe controller, and posted it to YouTube, where it quickly gained traction. Facing the typical funding hurdles of independent hardware projects, he joined forces with Ohsnap founder Dale Backus to bring the idea to life.

Together, the pair refined the early design into the sleek, magnetic, and feature-packed version available today. “It has been an incredible journey evolving MCON from my initial 3D prototype to the masterfully engineered gaming controller that it is today,” said King. “I cannot wait for gamers to get MCON on their phones so they can have a console-level experience anywhere.”

Pricing and Availability

MCON is available now from Ohsnap’s official website at ohsnap.com. Pricing was not included in the initial release, but the company indicates that shipments are now live.

Shokz Launches New Blue OpenRun Pro 2, Joins 2025 TCS New York City Marathon as Official Headphones Partner

Scott Webster
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0
Shokz Launches New Blue OpenRun Pro 2, Joins 2025 TCS New York City Marathon as Official Headphones Partner

Shokz, the brand best known for its open-ear bone conduction headphones, is taking its partnership game to marathon level, literally. The company has been named the Official Headphones Partner of the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, rounding out what it calls a North American “triple crown” of Abbott World Marathon Majors sponsorships following Chicago and Boston.

The announcement comes with a splash of color, Shokz is marking the milestone with a new Blue edition of its flagship OpenRun Pro 2 headphones, now available for purchase. The move ties neatly into the brand’s ongoing push to connect with runners through visibility, safety, and a sense of community that matches the spirit of race day.

Bringing Sound to the Streets of New York

Set for Sunday, November 2, the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon is one of the most recognizable races on the planet, drawing tens of thousands of runners from across the globe. Shokz aims to play an active role in the celebration by encouraging participants to stay aware of their surroundings without sacrificing their soundtrack, a core principle of its open-ear audio design.

The company’s global ambassador, Eliud Kipchoge, will be part of the action this year, making his New York City Marathon debut. His involvement adds extra buzz to an event already overflowing with energy, both on and off the course.

Blue OpenRun Pro 2 bone conduction headphones designed for runners, showcasing a lightweight frame and ergonomic design.

Bagels, Blue Headphones, and a Bit of Surprise

Shokz isn’t just showing up to the marathon, it’s bringing a New York flavor to the festivities through a local collaboration with PopUp Bagels. The partnership includes thousands of voucher giveaways and, in true New York fashion, a few surprise perks hidden in plain sight.

From October 30 through November 3, Shokz will distribute more than 2,500 PopUp Bagels vouchers to New York City run clubs and at the TCS New York City Marathon Expo presented by New Balance. Each voucher covers three bagels and a schmear pack, redeemable at any PopUp Bagels location.

To sweeten the deal, two PopUp Bagels shops, Penn Plaza on November 1 and the Upper West Side on November 2, will include a surprise in select orders: 20 pairs of the new Blue OpenRun Pro 2 headphones tucked right into customer bags.

OpenRun Pro 2: Built for Endurance

The OpenRun Pro 2 sits at the top of Shokz’s performance lineup. The new Blue colorway gives the model a fresh look to match the energy of marathon season, while the hardware remains built for serious runners.

The headset features a dual-driver system for richer sound, an IP55 rating for sweat and water resistance, and a secure fit that stays in place from warm-up to finish line. Battery life stretches up to 12 hours, making it well-suited for long-distance training, or a full day of cheering from the sidelines.

Beyond the Marathon

Shokz’s partnership with New York Road Runners extends past November’s event. The company will serve as the Official Headphones Partner for several other NYRR races throughout the year, including the United Airlines NYC Half, RBC Brooklyn Half, Mastercard New York Mini 10K, and the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K.

More information about the new Blue OpenRun Pro 2 and the brand’s marathon partnership can be found on the official Shokz website.

Wyze Solar Cam Pan Brings 360° Coverage and Solar Power to Home Security

Scott Webster
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Wyze Solar Cam Pan Brings 360° Coverage and Solar Power to Home Security

Wyze has announced the Wyze Solar Cam Pan, a new wire-free outdoor camera that blends 2K video clarity, AI person tracking, and a built-in solar panel for completely maintenance-free operation. Designed for homeowners who want around-the-clock coverage without battery swaps or charging breaks, it marks Wyze’s first-ever solar-powered pan-and-tilt camera—and arguably its most hands-off model yet.

Always Watching, Always Charging

At the heart of the Solar Cam Pan is a high-efficiency ETFE solar panel that requires only about an hour of direct sunlight each day to stay powered. The panel feeds an internal rechargeable battery, ensuring the camera keeps running day and night without cables, outlet connections, or tedious upkeep. Wyze says the focus was on creating a truly “set it and forget it” experience, a sentiment echoed by Co-Founder and CMO Dave Crosby:

The Wyze Solar Cam Pan delivers on that promise with its maintenance-free solar charging, easy mounting, and smart features like AI-powered person tracking.

Full 360° Pan and Smart Person Tracking

A person installing the Wyze Solar Cam Pan on a wall, with a graphic displaying a battery charge icon indicating solar power capability.
A Wyze Solar Cam Pan mounted on a tree, featuring a solar panel and a camera unit, with water droplets visible on its surface.

True to its name, the Solar Cam Pan features 360° horizontal rotation and 70° tilt coverage, eliminating blind spots across yards, driveways, and entryways. Users can control movement through the Wyze app, or let the AI take over with auto-tracking that follows detected individuals as they move through the frame. This capability—combined with 2K HD resolution and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR)—helps capture critical details like faces, clothing, or license plates even in challenging lighting.

For nighttime monitoring, the camera offers both Color Night Vision and enhanced IR night vision, balancing accuracy and clarity in low-light conditions.

Smarter Security with Fewer Hassles

The Solar Cam Pan doesn’t just watch—it reacts. Its motion-activated spotlight and built-in siren can warn off intruders or illuminate your path home. Two-way audio allows real-time communication with visitors (or the occasional raccoon), while IP65 weather resistance ensures the camera keeps working through rain, snow, and humidity.

Local recording via microSD card support up to 512GB keeps footage available without a subscription, though cloud storage is available through Wyze’s Cam Plus plans. And thanks to Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, users can expect smoother, more reliable streaming even across large properties.

Setup is straightforward: mount, connect via Bluetooth, and start streaming. Integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT allows voice commands and automation with other smart home devices.

Battery Video Doorbell Joins the Lineup

A person is installing a black Wyze Battery Video Doorbell on a wall, showcasing the camera's sleek design and mounting process.

Launching alongside the Solar Cam Pan is the new Wyze Battery Video Doorbell, offering a 150° x 150° field of view with 1536p HD+ resolution—wide enough to show both visitors and packages right at the doorstep. It supports AI person and package detection, two-way talk, and optional hardwired power for continuous recording. Wyze rates the battery for up to six months per charge, depending on usage and settings.

Price and Availability

The Wyze Solar Cam Pan is available now for $79.98 at Wyze.com, offering a smart, solar-powered solution for homeowners who’d rather not climb ladders to swap batteries. The Battery Video Doorbell, for its part, is available for $65.48.

For more details, visit the official Wyze website.

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