Hedgehog Dryer, a Norway-based brand known for its practical, design-forward tools, has launched the Hedgehog GO, a compact, high-powered dryer built for both hair and gear. The device’s dual-purpose design has earned it a place on TIME’s list of the Best Inventions of 2025, and it’s easy to see why, it’s small enough to fit in a backpack yet strong enough to dry hair or soggy snow boots in minutes.
Built for Everyday Adventure
Born in Hemsedal, Norway, where snow and damp gear are a regular part of life, the Hedgehog GO was designed by founder Bjørn Holte to handle both beauty routines and backcountry realities. Partnering with the Norwegian Olympic Snowboard Team, Holte and his team developed a portable solution capable of high-speed drying whether you’re in a ski lodge, gym, or hotel room.
“We wanted to merge performance and portability,” Holte explained. “It’s designed to keep up wherever the day takes you, drying boots after a day on the slopes or styling your hair before heading out. One compact tool that does it all.”
Power Meets Portability
At the core of the Hedgehog GO is a 105,000 RPM brushless motor generating 600 watts of output. That’s enough airflow to hit speeds of up to 60 mph, pushing moisture out fast while staying impressively quiet thanks to a built-in noise control mode. Despite all that muscle, it weighs just 0.77 pounds, lighter than most smartphones.
The dryer’s precision airflow turbine and temperature range of up to 140°F allow users to toggle between gentle and high-intensity drying. Its dual-voltage support (100–220V) makes it travel-ready, while interchangeable nozzles for hair and gear make it equally suited for the salon or the ski lodge.
Designed to Do More With Less
The Hedgehog GO isn’t just about speed; it’s about efficiency. The dryer uses advanced ionic technology to reduce static, cut down on odor, and add a touch of shine, benefits that matter whether you’re dealing with delicate strands or damp gloves. It can dry hair in under three minutes or revive boots and gloves in about ten minutes, making it an ideal companion for travelers, athletes, and anyone who hates waiting on wet gear.
For added safety, the device integrates a dual-fuse protection system and temperature sensor, ensuring consistent performance across different materials. It’s a minimalist solution that eliminates the need for separate appliances, one tool for your hair, your hiking boots, and your peace of mind.
Compact, quick, and surprisingly versatile, Hedgehog’s latest creation bridges the gap between everyday grooming and outdoor practicality, proof that sometimes the smartest inventions are the ones that simply make life easier, one dry glove (or good hair day) at a time.
The Segway F3, announced earlier this year, finds itself in a crowded field of electric scooters. How does it go about standing out? It’s not with brute power or flashy design, but with refinement and smarts.
It feels engineered for people who want a daily ride that’s smooth, connected, and confidence-inspiring. It’s something you can count on whether you’re weaving through traffic or cruising to a local café. Or if you’re like me, taking in the last hour of sunlight each day to unwind and welcome in autumn.
Where entry-level scooters often settle for bare-bones practicality, the F3 leans into a more premium experience. It combines a robust dual-suspension system with Segway’s expanding ecosystem of smart features. It balances comfort, capability, and convenience in a cool-looking device.
The Segway F3 delivers one of the smoothest rides in its class, pairing a premium dual-suspension setup with smart, app-connected features that make everyday commuting feel effortless.
Core Specs and the Commuter Sweet Spot
On paper, the Segway F3 looks built for dependable urban travel and not so much speed records. A 450-watt nominal (1000-watt peak) motor pushes it up to around 20 mph, while the 477Wh battery promises as much as 44 miles of range in ideal conditions. Or, in practice, closer to 25 miles as one might often hit full speed. At roughly 42 pounds, it hits that middle ground where portability and ride stability feel equally considered.
This combination suggests to me who it’s made for: riders who have outgrown budget scooters but don’t need the heft or cost of high-performance models. It’s practical, thoughtfully equipped, and ready for the rhythm of daily commuting.
Design and Build: Sturdy, Confident, and Surprisingly Refined
Segway clearly designed the F3 for people who care about how a scooter feels beneath their feet. The die-cast magnesium alloy frame gives it a solid, confidence-building presence. Nothing rattles or flexes the way cheaper frames do, and the matte finish helps it look more like a piece of quality hardware than a toy.
As for that confidence I’ve mentioned a couple of times already, I’ll break it down. It takes just one ride on this scooter to feel comfortable. It’s easy to balance, has the right height, and moves smoothly along.
The deck is wide and comfortably long, over seven inches across and just over twenty inches in length, which makes it easy to adjust your stance mid-ride or stretch your legs without feeling cramped. The handlebars angle naturally, and the rubberized grips dampen just enough vibration to keep hands from tingling on longer rides.
At about 42 pounds, it isn’t exactly feather-light, but the quick-folding mechanism works smoothly and feels sturdy when locked in place. It’s portable enough for a quick hop on a bus or train, though probably not something you’d want to carry across a large campus every day. It’s certainly easy enough to pack into the trunk of a car or back of an SUV. Oh, and a small but smart touch: a built-in front locking rim that makes securing it with a U-lock or chain simple.
Smart Tech and Everyday Usability
Segway has made “Simply Moving” more than a motto, and the F3 shows why. Its handlebar-mounted TFT display is crisp, easy to read in sunlight, and automatically adjusts brightness. It shows speed, battery level, and ride mode at a glance, and when paired with the Segway Mobility app, it becomes a surprisingly capable little command center.
Through the app, you can see turn-by-turn navigation cues on the scooter’s display and even receive call notifications, keeping your phone safely tucked away. The Find My integration is another win; after setup, your F3 can appear right alongside your other Apple devices if it ever goes missing.
Add in the Bluetooth-based AirLock system that automatically locks or unlocks the scooter as you come and go, and you’ve got a commuter vehicle that genuinely feels part of your digital life.
Then there’s SegRide, the company’s stability-enhancement suite. Think of it as an electronic safety net that improves traction and handling on slick or uneven roads. It’s the kind of feature you may not notice working until you hit a rough patch and realize how planted the scooter still feels.
Ride Quality: Where It Really Earns Its Keep
Ride comfort is easily the Segway F3’s standout feature. The combination of front hydraulic and rear elastomer suspension soaks up cracks, dips, and the occasional cobblestone stretch without complaint. On typical city pavement, it seems to glide more than it bumps which is something most scooters in this range can’t claim.
Acceleration feels smooth rather than aggressive, which is a plus for everyday riders. The rear-wheel motor delivers steady power that’s easy to modulate, and it’s nearly silent. Wind noise often overtakes motor sound entirely. It’s very easy to sneak up on a group of people in a parking lot.
Hill performance is respectable but not heroic. Segway rates the F3 for 20 percent inclines, though heavier riders or steeper neighborhoods may see it slow down a bit. It’s fine for the kind of rolling terrain most cities have, but it’s not a mountain-goat scooter.
Braking is handled by a dual-system setup: a front mechanical disc and rear electronic brake that engage together through a single lever. Stopping power feels steady and predictable, less of a “bite” than some, and the handling stays composed even under quick stops.
Battery Life and Real-World Range
Battery expectations with electric scooters often need a dose of reality, and Segway’s numbers are no exception. The advertised 44-mile maximum assumes Eco Mode, flat roads, and a light rider moving at jogging pace. In other words, not a realistic situation. Most riders in Sport Mode will see roughly 22 to 25 miles per charge, which aligns with user feedback and real-world testing.
That range is still solid for daily commutes or weekend runs across town, and the F3’s eight-hour recharge time is manageable for overnight top-offs. For anyone who needs more endurance, Segway sells a fast charger to get you back on the road quicker.
Market Position and Value
Sitting in the $800-$1,000 range, the F3 lands squarely in the mid-tier commuter segment. It’s designed for riders who want premium touches without venturing into the price or weight of Segway’s Ninebot Max G3.
Compared to that higher-end sibling, the F3 trades a bit of range and motor strength for lighter weight and easier portability. You still get the suspension comfort, the clean interface, and the smart features, but in a package that’s easier to live with day to day.
Segway backs the F3 with a one-year limited warranty covering key components like the motor, control board, frame, and battery. As usual, that excludes wear-and-tear and water-damage claims, even though the scooter itself boasts solid IPX6 and IPX7 ratings for its body and battery pack.
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.
Final Verdict
The Segway F3 is one of those rare scooters that feels equally practical and premium. It doesn’t chase specs so much as it delivers refinement where it counts. Segway has a fairly sizable portfolio of scooters and this one feels like an great balance of features, paired with the right price point.
The dual-suspension setup transforms city riding, the build inspires confidence, and the smart integrations make it feel like a natural extension of a connected lifestyle.
The real-world range won’t hit the marketing numbers, and hill performance can vary depending on rider weight; however, those compromises are minor compared to what you gain in comfort and reliability.
If you want a scooter that can handle daily rides with poise, keeps you connected, and doesn’t punish you for every crack in the road, the Segway F3 fits beautifully into that middle space. It’s an urban ride that feels more like an everyday essential than a weekend gadget. It’s the kind of product that makes me wish I spent more of my days in a more localized part of town. I could see myself ditching the car in favor of this on weather-permitting days.
REDMAGIC has officially introduced the REDMAGIC 11 Pro series in China, positioning its latest gaming smartphones under the launch theme “Power Unleashed · Limitless Force.” The series pushes high-end mobile esports forward with new technologies across cooling, performance, display, and touch, including the world’s first dual liquid-and-air cooling system in a mass-produced smartphone.
World’s First Dual Liquid-and-Air Cooling System
REDMAGIC’s new cooling architecture blends PC-grade liquid cooling with its signature high-speed fan system. Using AI-server-grade fluorinated liquid that remains stable from -60°C to 108°C, the 11 Pro maintains consistent thermal performance during extended gaming. The setup includes a 0.85mm ceramic micro-pump, upgraded Turbo Fan 4.0 spinning at 24,000 rpm, and Liquid Metal 3.0, creating a four-layer cooling loop that boosts heat dissipation efficiency by 50%. The system is IPX8 waterproof and features a visible liquid-cooling design, where a translucent blue ring rotates during operation for a futuristic look.
Flagship Performance with Dual-Core Architecture
At the heart of the REDMAGIC 11 Pro lies Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, paired with LPDDR5T RAM and UFS 4.1 PRO storage, forming what REDMAGIC calls its “Trinity” performance structure. Benchmarks top 4.358 million points on AnTuTu, with titles such as Honkai: Star Rail running at 60FPS and Wuthering Waves reaching 90FPS on ultra settings.
The Ultra Graphics Engine 3.0 and RedCore R4 chip enable over 200 domestic games to upscale to 2K at 144Hz, while select titles support ray tracing for console-like visuals. In China, the phone even includes a built-in PC emulator, running Tomb Raider at 120FPS to demonstrate desktop-level gaming on mobile.
Massive Battery and Fast Charging
With an 8,000mAh battery, 120W wired, and 80W wireless charging, the 11 Pro is built for marathon sessions. REDMAGIC claims up to 13 hours of MOBA gameplay or 10 hours of shooters, plus a bypass charging mode to prevent battery wear during play.
Display and Touch Enhancements
The 11 Pro introduces Full-Screen 2.0 technology, achieving a 95.3% screen-to-body ratio without notches or punch-holes. The BOE X10 display supports 2688×1216 resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and improved color accuracy while reducing power draw by 10%. For long sessions, Star Shield Eye Protection 2.0 adjusts lighting automatically to reduce eye strain.
Gamers get pinpoint control through a new Synaptics touch chip with a 3,000Hz touch sampling rate, 520Hz shoulder triggers, and 3D ultrasonic fingerprint unlocking. These features, combined with anti-sweat algorithms and wet-hand support, ensure precision under pressure.
AI-Powered REDMAGIC OS 11
Running REDMAGIC OS 11 with the AI assistant MORA, the Chinese edition introduces new smart features like AI social replies, object recognition, and screen-based search. During gaming, a Personal AI Coach offers real-time strategy analysis and guidance.
Camera and Livestreaming Capabilities
Breaking from the usual gaming-phone formula, the REDMAGIC 11 Pro features dual 50MP cameras capable of underwater and low-light shooting. For creators and streamers, it supports 8K60Hz and 4K144Hz output with independent audio-video control. Real-world streaming tests maintained stable 120FPS performance over an hour of gameplay.
REDMAGIC 16 PRO Laptop Joins the Lineup
Alongside the phones, REDMAGIC launched the 16 PRO Gaming Laptop, featuring Intel’s Core Ultra9-275HX CPU and up to RTX 5090 graphics. It brings a 16-inch 300Hz display, RGB lighting, Thunderbolt 5, and MagicCool 2.0 thermal architecture. Prices in China start at 16,999 RMB for the RTX 5070Ti model.
Pricing and Availability
The REDMAGIC 11 Pro starts at 4,999 RMB (~$685 USD) in China, available in Black, Silver, Transparent Black, and Transparent Silver finishes with storage options up to 24GB RAM + 1TB. The global launch is set for November 3, 2025, via redmagic.gg.
REDMAGIC continues to expand its gaming ecosystem with controllers, GaN chargers, and accessories designed for professional-level mobile esports, reaffirming its position as one of the few brands still treating smartphones like serious gaming machines.
When two legendary brands join forces, something special happens. The Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER CROSS brings together Teufel’s 45+ years of German audio engineering expertise with Fender’s iconic American guitar and amplifier design heritage. The result is a Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t just sound amazing. It looks like it belongs on stage.
Built for the Road
The ROCKSTER CROSS takes its design cues from classic Fender guitar amplifiers, complete with the signature steel mesh grille and unmistakable Fender branding. But this isn’t just about aesthetics. The speaker’s rugged construction includes a grippy rubber exterior, impact-resistant materials, and IPX5 water resistance certification. Whether you’re caught in the rain or dealing with splashes by the pool, this speaker keeps playing.
Blending iconic Fender style with Teufel’s robust engineering, the ROCKSTER CROSS delivers powerful, stage-worthy sound and all-weather durability. It’s perfect for music lovers who want great audio anywhere life takes them.
The included authentic Fender guitar strap isn’t just for show, at 5.3 pounds and measuring 15 x 6.3 x 5.1 inches, you’ll appreciate having hands-free portability options. The speaker also features an angled base design that lets you tilt it backward to optimize sound projection, particularly useful for speech clarity and vocal definition.
True Stereo Sound Architecture
Inside the ROCKSTER CROSS, you’ll find a carefully engineered driver configuration: two high-resolution textile tweeters, one 5-inch textile woofer, and two passive radiators working together to deliver true stereo sound. This setup covers a frequency range of 50-20,000 Hz, essentially the full spectrum of human hearing.
The speaker incorporates Teufel’s proprietary Dynamore technology, which creates an especially wide soundstage so everyone in the listening area can enjoy optimal audio quality. There’s also an Outdoor Mode that boosts bass frequencies for open-air environments where low-end response typically gets lost.
Power That Lasts
The ROCKSTER CROSS delivers up to 16 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. The fast-charging lithium-ion battery system means you spend less time tethered to power outlets and more time enjoying your music. When other devices need juice, the built-in powerbank function lets you charge smartphones and tablets via the USB-A port.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth 5.0 provides stable wireless connection with support for Qualcomm aptX codec, ensuring CD-quality audio transmission from compatible Android devices and Mac computers. The speaker maintains connection up to approximately 85 feet, giving you freedom to move around without dropouts.
For situations where wireless isn’t ideal, the 3.5mm AUX input provides wired connectivity with improved latency and resolution, perfect for gaming or watching videos. The speaker also includes a built-in speakerphone function for hands-free calls.
Expandable Audio
The ROCKSTER CROSS supports pairing with a second unit for stereo mode operation, effectively doubling your sound output and creating a wider stereo image. You can also connect two smartphones simultaneously, making it easy to share DJ duties at gatherings.
Weather-Ready Performance
The IPX5 certification means the ROCKSTER CROSS can handle water jets from any direction, making it suitable for poolside use, beach trips, or outdoor events where weather might be unpredictable. The closed-cabinet design also provides dust protection, while the speaker’s cold-resistant construction allows operation down to 15°F.
We know a good thing when we see it.
The First-Rate Find badge recognizes products that go beyond standards in performance, design, value, and/or innovation. They also tend to boast interesting features or distinct hallmarks.
We don’t need to assign any formal scores to indicate that this one is worth your attention.
What’s in the Box
Your ROCKSTER CROSS comes complete with the original Fender guitar strap, external power supply with NEMA-1 connector, and a Fender x Teufel guitar pick. The intuitive button controls on the rear panel handle power, connectivity, and playback functions, while LED indicators display battery status at a glance.
The Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER CROSS represents more than just another Bluetooth speaker. It’s the convergence of authentic musical heritage with modern audio technology, designed for those who appreciate both substance and style in their sound equipment.
The modern digital landscape increasingly demands reliable connectivity, making access to affordable wireless service less of a luxury and more of a fundamental necessity. Recognizing this critical need, Total Wireless, a fast-growing, no-contract wireless provider covered by the robust Verizon 5G network, introduced its LifeLine discount program specifically tailored for California residents.
This initiative is a crucial step toward bridging the digital divide within the state, ensuring that low-income individuals and families can remain connected to essential services, employment opportunities, and educational resources.
Total Wireless Offers Subsidized Lifeline Plans with Free Smartphones
Through the established California LifeLine program, Total Wireless is now offering dramatically subsidized service. Qualifying customers can receive a feature-rich Total Wireless plan that includes unlimited talk, unlimited text, and a substantial allowance of 6GB of high-speed data every 30 days — all for as low as $0 per month.
This zero-cost option is transformative, eliminating financial barriers entirely for the most vulnerable populations. Furthermore, to ensure immediate access to this lifeline service, customers also receive a complimentary smartphone upon enrollment, removing the typical hurdle of needing to purchase new or expensive equipment.
This free device is modern, reliable, and capable of fully utilizing the Verizon 5G network, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
“Access to reliable wireless service shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone,” said David Kim, Chief Revenue Officer at Verizon Value. “That’s why we’re bringing California LifeLine to Total Wireless stores across the state, making it simple for eligible residents to sign up and get connected—with no barriers, no credit checks, and no compromises on quality.”
Easy Enrollment and Eligibility
California residents can enroll with Total Wireless quickly and conveniently. Apply in-person at any Total Wireless location via scannable QR codes, or complete your application online.
Automatic qualification for LifeLine benefits is available to recipients of CalFresh, Medi-Cal, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, and other government assistance programs. Both new and current customers are eligible. Remember, LifeLine benefits are non-transferable and restricted to one per household.
Why Choose Total Wireless?
Total Wireless is committed to serving California’s diverse communities with affordable, reliable wireless service. This not only improves connections but also demonstrates Total Wireless’s commitment to serving the state’s diverse wireless needs to ensure that every customer, regardless of how much he earns, has access to the wireless tools they need to stay connected.
Expanding LifeLine Access Nationwide
Beyond California, Total Wireless is also enhancing its LifeLine program across the U.S., allowing more people to get access to discounted wireless service. With approximately 1,900 exclusive stores across the country, including more than 200 in California, customers have brick and mortar locations to get their questions answered, get more information and easily enroll.
The Pixel Buds 2a are the A-series I have been waiting for. They borrow the fit, finish, and brains from the Pro line, add active noise cancellation for the first time in the budget tier, and keep a price that feels fair. The trade-offs are real, though.
There is no wireless charging, there are no on-bud volume controls, and the line’s history with odd Bluetooth hiccups still lingers in the back of my mind. If you live on Android and like Google’s ecosystem perks, these land in a very sweet spot.
Price: $129.99
Colors: Hazel, Iris
What stands out: small, comfy fit, ANC that is genuinely useful, long single-charge battery life, deep Android and Gemini integration
What holds it back: no wireless charging, no swipe volume, codec ceiling at AAC, potential connectivity quirks
Design and Comfort
Google basically shrunk the Pro look and feel and handed it to the A-series. The buds are compact and light, they sit flush, and the little twist-to-lock stabilizer makes them feel secure without a bulky wing. With the right tips, I can wear them for a full workday without hot spots or pressure. You get four sizes of silicone tips in the box, which helps dial in a proper seal for audio and ANC.
Pro-level comfort, genuinely useful ANC, and effortless Android smarts make Pixel Buds 2a an easy everyday pick at a fair price.
Case
The pebble case is smaller than before and easy to pocket. The matte finish hides smudges and absorb scuffs, the interior color matches the buds, and charging is through USB-C. There is no Qi wireless charging. At this price, that missing convenience is noticeable.
Durability and Sustainability
The buds are IP54 for dust and splash resistance, the case is IPX4, and the build uses recycled materials. The case battery is replaceable, which is rare in this category and a nice nod to longevity.
Sound and ANC
Out of the box the sound is lively and clean, with enough low-end thump to keep pop and hip hop fun, and decent clarity up top. I would call the tuning “middle of the road” in a good way. It’s safe and balanced and works well for a lot of genres.
Keep volume below the top third and everything stays tidy. Push past that and you can almost hear the drivers and processing run out of headroom. Details are softened here, but it’s not really any worse than other earbuds in this price range.
Active noise cancellation is the headline feature and it pulls real weight. Constant low-frequency noise gets knocked down well, so stuff like office hums, train rumbles, and café grinders easily fade into the background.
Voices and sharp, variable sounds are less tamed than what you get from top Bose or Sony sets, which tracks with the price. Transparency mode is natural enough for quick chats and street awareness. It’s obviously not as immersive but it’s what you’ll want if you’re cleaning up the kitchen after dinner and trying to split attention between conversations and podcasts.
Calls
Mics are fine for everyday calls. Wind handling is decent, voice is clear, and people can tell you are on a headset… if they are listening for it, or are asked if they can tell. Otherwise, I suspect those on the other end are none the wiser. If you record voiceovers for content or lead high-stakes meetings from remote locations, you may want something with more aggressive mic arrays.
Controls and Features
Taps cover play or pause, track skip, and track back. A press and hold can toggle noise modes or fire up Assistant or Gemini. There is still no on-bud volume control. You either use your phone or say a command. Having a few preferred earbuds that I’ve kept around for the past decade, I realized I miss swipe volume more than I thought I would, especially while running or mowing the grass.
Connectivity and Codec Support
Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint is here, which lets me hop between laptop and phone without fuss. Codecs are SBC and AAC. There is no aptX or LDAC for higher-bit-rate streaming, which will matter to some. I’ve never been a big codec guy but I can appreciate those who do have preferences.
Also worth noting, the Pixel Buds family has a reputation for occasional cutouts or odd pairing moments. I did not hit anything show-stopping during my time, but the history is hard to ignore. I did a quick search around before hitting publish on this review and didn’t see any glaring problems for the Buds 2a.
Battery and Charging
Battery life is a clear win. I routinely see about seven hours per charge with ANC on, and the case brings total time to roughly twenty hours with ANC. Five minutes in the case nets about an hour of listening, which saves you when you are headed out the door. It’s perfect for those moments where you remember that you forgot to charge them over the weekend as you’re getting ready for the gym. Again, wired USB-C only for charging.
Software and Ecosystem Perks
Setup on Android is a breeze with Fast Pair. My phone was immediately asking to pair with them the moment I opened the case.
Settings live in the native Bluetooth menu, not a separate app, which keeps things simple. You get a five-band EQ with a few presets, firmware updates, and quick controls for ANC and transparency.
The Tensor A1 in the buds handles ANC, helps with latency, and makes hands-free “Hey Google” and Gemini access feel instant. If you are deep in Google’s world, that convenience stacks up fast.
What I like
Small, super comfortable fit that stays put
ANC that actually helps in daily use
Strong single-charge stamina for the size
Seamless Android pairing and settings, hands-free Assistant and Gemini
IP54 rating on the buds, recycled materials, and a replaceable case battery
What I would change
Add wireless charging to the case
Add on-bud volume control
Offer at least one higher-quality Bluetooth codec option
Keep chipping away at those occasional connectivity gremlins (or maybe they have solved it)
Warranty
You get a one-year limited warranty in the United States that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Accidental damage and liquid immersion are not covered.
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.
Bottom Line
The Pixel Buds 2a ($129) feel like the right kind of trickle-down. Much like the A-series is for Pixel phones, these do a great job of giving consumers most of the features that are important without going all-in with unnecessary things to drive the price up.
Comfort is great, ANC is useful, battery life is solid, and the Android experience is as clean as it gets. The missing wireless charging and on-bud volume controls keep them from feeling truly complete. Those are the things that I noticed, but the limited codec support will not thrill audio nerds. All things factored, the overall value lands exactly where it should.
The Lightboks is Soundboks’ latest innovation, an audio-reactive party light designed to transform any space into an immersive visual experience. Priced at $299, this portable lighting system uses built-in microphones to sync with your music, creating dynamic light shows that respond to every beat, bassline, and breakdown in real time.
TrackSync Technology and Audio Reactivity
The heart of the Lightboks lies in its TrackSync technology. The device features seven RGBW 12W LED spots that listen to your music through an integrated microphone system. The technology analyzes audio frequencies and dynamics to create synchronized lighting effects that match the energy of your tracks. The microphone is specifically programmed to detect musical elements rather than conversations, focusing solely on translating sound into visual experiences.
Lightboks delivers vibrant, music-synced lighting that’s easy to set up, genuinely portable, and rugged enough for any party, offering pro-level effects without the hassle or complexity.
The system works with any audio source, from full-size sound systems to your smartphone’s built-in speaker. You don’t need a Soundboks speaker to use the Lightboks; it operates independently while complementing any existing audio setup.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance varies based on usage settings. At maximum brightness with energy level 3 (Rave mode), the Lightboks delivers 13+ hours of continuous operation. In Dance mode at 60% brightness, you can expect around 10+ hours of use. The internal 44.16Wh battery charges via USB-C with 30W fast charging capability, reaching full charge in just two hours.
Customization and Control
The Lightboks offers three energy modes, Chill, Dance, and Rave, each tailored to different party atmospheres. Ten curated color palettes provide visual variety, allowing you to match the lighting to your event’s theme or mood. All settings are controlled through the Soundboks app, which also enables the TeamUp feature for connecting multiple Lightboks units together.
The TeamUp functionality allows unlimited Lightboks connections (subject to environmental conditions), creating synchronized light shows across multiple units for larger events or more immersive experiences.
Build Quality and Durability
Measuring 8.3 x 9.2 x 5 inches and weighing 3.86 pounds, the Lightboks maintains portability while delivering robust construction. The device features IP65-rated water resistance, silicon rubber bumpers for impact protection, and a transparent polycarbonate cover. A built-in handle makes transport straightforward, living up to its “backpack-sized” design philosophy.
The UI panel includes brightness control, power on/off button, energy level selection, and battery status indicator, providing essential controls without requiring the app.
Technical Specifications
The Lightboks connects via Bluetooth and integrates with the Soundboks app for full control functionality. The housing combines PC/ABS materials with silicon rubber bumpers for durability. Each unit includes the Lightboks device and a quick start guide, with the USB-C charging cable sold separately.
Performance in Practice
The lighting effects respond dynamically to musical changes, creating smooth transitions during mellow sections and intense displays during high-energy moments. The higher energy modes actually extend battery life since the lights activate less frequently during dynamic musical passages, while lower energy modes maintain more consistent illumination.
Whether you’re hosting indoor gatherings, outdoor events, or mobile parties, the Lightboks adapts to different environments while maintaining consistent performance. The combination of portability, durability, and responsive lighting makes it suitable for various party scenarios.
We know a good thing when we see it.
The First-Rate Find badge recognizes products that go beyond standards in performance, design, value, and/or innovation. They also tend to boast interesting features or distinct hallmarks.
We don’t need to assign any formal scores to indicate that this one is worth your attention.
Ready to Light Up Your Next Event?
The Lightboks represents a practical approach to portable party lighting, combining audio reactivity with genuine portability and reliable battery performance. At $299, it delivers professional-grade lighting effects in a consumer-friendly package that works with any music source.
Ready to transform your next gathering? Check out the Lightboks and see how light can change everything about your party experience.
Mint Mobile, the wireless carrier known for shaking up the mobile industry with its no-nonsense pricing, is now expanding into home internet with a new 5G-powered service called MINTernet. The service, announced today and available immediately, starts at $30 per month and runs on T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network.
Real Savings, Real People. No Gimmicks
To kick off the launch, Mint teamed up with the real Tilly Norwood, not the AI-generated actress who recently went viral, but an actual human, Natalie “Tilly” Norwood. The move drives home the company’s theme: MINTernet is as real as the savings it promises.
The new service arrives at a time when many Americans are fed up with their internet bills. Mint Mobile cites data showing that roughly two-thirds of customers are ready to switch providers, with the top reason being high monthly costs. The company’s response is a simple one: make home internet fast, fair, and affordable, without the fine print or bundle traps that cable companies often rely on.
“People are sick of internet companies treating them like human ATMs,” said Scott Venuti, GM of Home MINTernet. “So we did what Mint does best: we made it fast, fair, and affordable. Plus, ours is simple to set up and, in most cases, can be ready in under 15 minutes, probably faster than your current provider answers the phone.”
Ryan Reynolds Keeps It Literal
Mint Mobile co-owner Ryan Reynolds added his signature humor to the announcement, saying, “Today we’re bringing that same energy home. Literally. This is not a metaphor. We literally deliver it to your home. Like it shows up and you turn it on and you start getting 5G home internet and saving money.”
Reynolds’ tongue-in-cheek commentary aside, the expansion marks a logical step for Mint. Backed by T-Mobile’s 5G network, MINTernet aims to simplify home connectivity by using plug-and-play hardware that gets users online in minutes, no technician visits or hidden fees required.
Pricing and Plans
New customers can start with three months of MINTernet for $30 per month when paired with a Mint phone plan (or $40 per month without). After the introductory period, users have two renewal options:
Lock in $30/month by committing to a 12-month plan ($360 upfront).
Continue quarterly for $10 more per month ($120 with a Mint phone plan or $150 without).
Each plan includes:
T-Mobile 5G coverage, the country’s largest and fastest network
No monthly equipment fees
Simple setup, typically under 15 minutes
14-day money-back guarantee
Cutting the Cord, Mint Style
MINTernet positions itself as the antidote to complicated bundles and promotional fine print. Customers can manage everything online, skip the contracts, and still access premium speeds. For those already using Mint for mobile service, bundling both wireless and home internet offers even deeper discounts, all without the traditional “gotcha” fees of major cable providers.
Mint Mobile has built its reputation on affordable, reliable wireless plans, and MINTernet seems poised to extend that philosophy into home connectivity. The name might sound cheeky, but the intent is clear: real internet, real savings, real simple.
XGIMI, a top innovator in home entertainment technology, has launched the HORIZON 20 series of home projectors. Fresh from its unveiling at IFA 2025, the series features three models—the HORIZON 20, HORIZON 20 Pro, and HORIZON 20 Max. All models are now available for purchase on XGIMI’s website and Amazon.
The Horizon 20 Series: Peak Performance and Unrivaled Brightness
The HORIZON 20 series represents the pinnacle of XGIMI’s technological advancement. Each model promises stunning 4K resolution, cinematic brightness, and lifelike color accuracy, thanks to XGIMI’s new X-Master Red Ring Lens, the most advanced optical system the brand has ever created. The HORIZON 20 Max stands out as the brand’s brightest consumer projector to date, boasting an impressive 5700 ISO lumens.
In addition to exceptional visuals, all models in the HORIZON 20 series support Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and DTS:X to deliver an authentic cinematic experience. They also cater to gamers and creators with a 1ms input lag, 240Hz refresh rates, and native Netflix compatibility. Harman/Kardon-tuned speakers provide rich, balanced sound with remarkable clarity.
Why Choose XGIMI?
Customers choose XGIMI for a superior, all-in-one smart projector experience that blends high-quality imagery with exceptional portability and ease of use. Their projectors, known for advanced intelligent screen adaptation (ISA) technology for auto-focus and obstacle avoidance, and crisp resolution up to true 4K, deliver cinematic viewing without complex setup.
XGIMI’s commitment to making big-screen entertainment accessible means customers get a powerful, sleek device perfect for home theaters, outdoor movie nights, or taking presentations on the go, often integrating a polished Android TV interface for immediate access to their favorite streaming services.
Availability and Pricing
The HORIZON 20 series projectors are competitively priced, starting at $1,699 for the HORIZON 20, $2,499 for the HORIZON 20 Pro, and $2,999 for the HORIZON 20 Max. For a limited time, XGIMI is offering up to $600 off during its open sales promotion on the full lineup.
Gourmia is giving busy households a reason to breathe a little easier at dinnertime. The Brooklyn-based kitchen appliance brand has launched its new 11-Quart Double Decker Dual-Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish, available exclusively to Costco members for $99.99 in stores and online.
Designed for Real-World Family Chaos
Life gets hectic between school drop-offs, activities, and family gatherings. Gourmia’s latest air fryer is built to match that pace, making it easier to put hot, fresh, and healthy meals on the table without juggling oven racks or multiple pans. The unit’s Smart Finish technology automatically syncs the cook times of two different baskets so both foods, say, chicken in one and fries in the other, finish together.
Each of the two baskets comes with a removable rack, meaning up to four foods can cook simultaneously. That flexibility keeps dinner drama to a minimum. There’s no cross-flavor mingling and no arguing over who gets what.
Gourmia® is making mealtime faster and easier with its exclusive 11-Quart Double Decker Dual-Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish, available only at Costco for healthy, perfectly timed family meals.
Compact Build, Family-Sized Capacity
With its stacked vertical design, the 11-quart air fryer saves counter space while offering plenty of room for full meals. Gourmia’s FryForce 360° Technology evenly circulates hot air for a crispy finish with little or no oil, making it a fit for those who like the texture of frying without the extra grease.
A simple LED touch display keeps operation straightforward, with eight one-touch presets for air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat, keep warm, and proof. The baskets and crisper trays are non-stick, dishwasher safe, and free from PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, and lead, an important detail for health-conscious cooks.
Features at a Glance
Smart Finish Synchronization: Two baskets, two settings, one perfectly timed meal.
Cook More at Once: Removable racks double the cooking surface for up to four foods.
Sync Cook Function: Mirror settings across both baskets for full 11-quart capacity.
Compact but Capable: Vertical layout fits comfortably on small counters.
Easy Cleanup: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts with no chemical coatings.
Simple Controls: LED display and viewing windows for quick monitoring.
Hidden Storage: Foldaway control panel and built-in cord wrap keep things tidy.
Built for Busy Kitchens
“This is the time of year when life moves fast,” said Heshy Biegeleisen, founder of Gourmia. “We designed this air fryer to keep pace with real families. With Smart Finish, you can cook two foods at different times and temperatures, and they’ll finish together—so dinner hits the table hot, fresh, and perfectly timed.”
The design aims to strike a balance between performance and practicality, appealing to families that want healthy meals without sacrificing convenience or countertop space. From weeknight dinners to weekend snacks, the Double Decker Air Fryer brings restaurant-style results to home kitchens, minus the grease and wait time.
