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Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 docking station review

Andrew Allen
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Thunderbolt 3 has been a great protocol for the modern tech nerd. It utilizes USB-C cables to extend your PC capabilities to myriad peripherals, including monitors, network adapters, and even external graphics cards. Anker has a new entry in this space with the PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 docking station.

The company was nice enough to allow us three weeks with the PowerExpand Elite. We came away with several impressions. Most of them are for the positive and a few question marks. Let’s dive into the full review to expand on the expandability of the Anker PowerExpand Elite.

Design

This docking station is a tank. You will immediately notice the heft and solid metal construction of the casing. The PowerExpand isn’t large though. It’s around the size of a small novel making it easy to set up on your desk space.

The dock can also be oriented both vertical and horizontal. Again, depending on your office, this adds additional flexibility on where to place the PowerExpand Elite.

What’s in the Box?

The included materials with things like docking station is always a mixed bag. Thankfully, Anker has included the essentials to get you started. Upon opening the box you will find the PowerExpand Elite 13, a two-part 180-watt power adapter, and a two-foot Thunderbolt 3 cable.

The included accessories made setup a seamless experience. Take the PowerExpand Elite out the box. Plug in the power brick. Press the power button. Yes, there’s a dedicated power button which is nice. Now, you’re ready to put that Thunderbolt 3 cable to use with your laptop.

All the Ports

As the name implies, the PowerExpand Elite has 13 available options of input and output. You have an array of slots on both the front and the rear of the PowerExpand Elite to accomplish this.

The front houses the power button, micro and standard SD slots, a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual 10Gbps USB-C ports, and a 5Gbps USB-A port. This gives users quick access to most general input of data peripherals like USB pen drives, digital photo SD cards, and even your headphones without having to reach for the back of the dock.

Now, around the back of the PowerExpand Elite is where all the heavy lifting is going to be done. The rear ports include two Thunderbolt 3 40Gbps ports (one for your laptop input and one for your output of choice), three USB-A ports, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet adapter.

General Use

Using the PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 is about as simple as it gets. Plug in your laptop, or Thunderbolt 3 PC, in one port and as many peripherals as the Elite can handle in the other 12. All the appropriate expansions worked as advertised in my usage.

There was one caveat worth a mention. When using external monitors, you should make sure that your device is a certified Thunderbolt device. This gives you full capabilities to daisy-chaining up to three external monitors via the 40Gbps Thunderbolt out port.

If using a USB-C device without Thunderbolt, you can only use display out with the HDMI port. All other expansion will work as intended, but you can’t use the other USB-C/Thunderbolt to push the external monitors. This is due to Thunderbolt 3 is backward compatible to USB-C standards, but the standard USB-C output doesn’t have the throughput to push the extra displays. Many laptop are USB-C only and do not support the Thunderbolt output.

I’d suggest only using this dock with true, certified Thunderbolt laptops with this limitation. While you can get peripherals to work with no issue, the hindered monitor situation is worth noting. If not sure of your USB-C device, please check out the below picture. The Thunderbolt logo with the lightning bolt is your go-to indicator that you have a Thunderbolt certified port.

Lastly, I’d loved to have seen at least one DisplayPort out option. Many other docks have both an HDMI and DisplayPort ports to offer both HD out monitor standards. This makes it more out-of-the-box compatible with numerous displays on the market.

Final Thoughts

The Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 is a phenomenal Thunderbolt 3 dock. It’s compact design and large expansion list make it a desirable option for any home office. The other setback for some might be the cost of $299, but this amount of peripheral diversity can’t be cheap.

You can purchase the PowerExpand Elite on Anker’s website directly or on Amazon. At the time of this writing, Amazon has it $50 off. If you’re in the market for a versatile Thunderbolt dock, then this one from Anker needs to be on your list of options.

Instagram debuts Reels – a new (and familiar) way to create content

Rizwan Anwer
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Instagram has just rolled out Instagram Reels, a creative, fun, and new way to create content for your friends, family and followers. You can now create and edit 15-second long multi-clip videos and add in your personal touch of audio, new creative tools, and flashy effects.

Creating an Instagram Reel works like magic. Swipe to your Instagram Camera and swipe to the new Reels option at the bottom. You’ll see a load of new features and tricks to try out to make your 15-second videos look even better.

With a rich library of songs to choose from the Instagram music library, you can add music to your video, along with your own custom music or audio. There is also a good selection of AR Effects to give your content an extra touch.

Using the Timer and Countdown feature lets you record while your phone is on a stand or a trip-pod. The Align tool lets you line-up objects from previous clips to make sure the continuity from the previous clip is maintained, for when you want to go the extra mile for your content.

Lastly, you can choose to speed up or slow parts of the audio or video, whether you’re looking to keep a pace or making a slow-motion video.

Reels can be recorded in a variety of ways. You can compile a series of clips, record in one go, or use a video from your gallery.

When you have created your ideal Instagram Reel, you can move on to the share screen and make further customizations on the final appearance before sharing it with your audience. It will appear on a dedicated Reels tab on your profile for others to view and can also be shared on your feed.

The option of Reel on your profile can also be removed from the settings.

If you share an Instagram Reel to your story, it will only last 24 hours, so keep that in mind.

How to migrate data to a Samsung phone

Rizwan Anwer
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With smartphones becoming increasingly more affordable, buying one can be a semi-regular occurrence. However, moving data between your old phone and the new one can be cumbersome.

Many people will opt to transfer the data to a computer and then to the new phone. Historically, that was what one had to do. Or, users would back up what they could to a microSD card. Today, smartphone manufacturers have dedicated apps that make this process easy, efficient, and seamless.

This guide will teach you how to move all your personal data (SMS, calls, apps, photos, etc.) from your old phone to a Samsung branded phone. With this, you won’t have to worry about copying data on a computer or removable storage.

With a wide variety of phones at entry, mid, and flagship levels, Samsung is one of the leading brands for consumers to choose from. Whether you’re looking at the Galaxy A, Galaxy M, Galaxy S, or the Galaxy Note series.

While you might be worried about transferring data from your old phone to your new Samsung phone, Samsung Smart Switch makes the entire process effortless and brings everything from your old phone to your new phone in a matter of minutes.

Pre-requisites

Download and install the Samsung Smart Switch app from the Google PlayStore app on your old phone and your new phone. Make sure both phones are at least 80% charged.

Let’s Go!

Run the Smart Switch app on your new Samsung device, choose “Receive Data”.

Choose the relevant OS you’re using, in this case, we are using another Android phone.

Choose Wireless on the next screen.

Your Samsung phone will now transmit a Wireless Hotspot, and detect your old phone.

Now we return to our old phone and open the Samsung Smart Switch app. You’ll get a welcome screen that will tell you to send your data to a new device, tap on “Lets Go.”

On your old phone, select Wireless.

Your old phone will receive an invitation to connect, showing you the Samsung phone model number. Choose to Accept it. You’ll get an on-screen prompt showing the connection.

Your phones will now look for each other, the Samsung phone will wait for you to choose data to send and wait for the transfer.

You’ll now be able to see the data from your old phone on the new Samsung phone. Choose the data you wish to carry over, and if you wish, you can also carry over your Google account.

Once you’ve selected the data you want to carry over, choose Transfer.

Confirm the data transfer from your old phone by selecting Copy.

Once the data is copied, you’ll get a notification on both screens informing you of the successful transfer.

With that, you’re now set and ready to use all your favorite apps, photos, and other important content on your brand new Samsung phone.

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Samsung Galaxy Note20: These are the best prices and promotions

AndroidGuys
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Samsung’s next big thing, the Galaxy Note20, is officially available for pre-order. Finding one isn’t going to be much of a challenge as nearly all major wireless service providers will offer the phone. What’s more, it’s also being sold unlocked direct to consumers and through various retailers, too.

Here’s a look at all of the various places you can look to find the Galaxy Note20.

Samsung.com

Purchasing through Samsung’s website will open the door to a variety of options and promotions.

  • Galaxy Note20 Unlocked 128GB: $9.73/month for 36 months ($999.99 MSRP)
  • Galaxy Note20 Ultra Unlocked 128GB: $18.07/month for 36 months ($1,299.99 MSRP)
  • Galaxy Note20 Ultra Unlocked 512GB: $23.62/month for 36 months ($1,449.99 MSRP)
  • Get up to $650 off with trade-in

Pre-Order Information

  • Through 8/20 at 11:59 p.m. ET
  • Get $100 credit* with Note20
  • Get $150 credit* with Note20 Ultra

Color Options

  • Galaxy Note20 Ultra: Mystic Bronze, Mystic Black, Mystic White
  • Galaxy Note20: Mystic Bronze, Mystic Gray, Mystic Green

*must be redeemed on Samsung.com or Shop Samsung app. Terms and conditions apply. www.samsung.com/us/promotions

Verizon

  • Buy any Galaxy Note20 smartphone and get a second Galaxy Note20 series phone or Galaxy S20 series phone as low as free with a premium Unlimited plan or half off with any other Verizon Unlimited plan.
  • Upgrade to any Galaxy Note20 series smartphone and get $500 when trading in an eligible device on a premium Unlimited plan.

AT&T

New and existing customers can get up to $1,000 off any smartphone in the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Series, making the Note20 FREE.

T-Mobile

  • Get a Galaxy Note20 for FREE or up to $1,000 off a second smartphone of equal or lesser value when you pick up any of the new Samsung Galaxy Note20 superphones and add a new line.
  • Get up to HALF OFF (up to $500) a Samsung Galaxy Note20 or Note20 Ultra when you trade in a qualifying device.

US Cellular

  • Switchers can get Galaxy Note20 for $9.99 per month on Unlimited with Payback plan
  • Switchers can get Galaxy Note20 Ultra starting at $19.99 per month after $700 savings.
  • Current upgrade-eligible customers can receive $300 in bill credits when purchasing either device.

XFinity Mobile

  • Any customer that switches to Xfinity Mobile before 9/5 will receive $400 off the Samsung Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra, and other select Samsung 5G devices, when they buy a phone, activate a new line and transfer their number.
  • Existing Xfinity Mobile customers will receive a $400 Visa prepaid card when they upgrade an existing line with the purchase of a Galaxy Note20 device or other select Samsung 5G devices.

Tonor TC-777 USB microphone review

AndroidGuys
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For review today we have the Tonor TC-777 USB microphone, a $40 piece of equipment catered toward first-time users and beginner podcasters/streamers. As a good starter device, it provides good sound quality, easy set-up and use, all for a relatively cheap price.

What is included with the Tonor TC-777 Mic?

Found inside the box is the microphone itself, power cord, folding tripod stand, shock mount, pop filter, product manual, and a service card. The service card provides a link to Tonor’s website ad contains a two year replacement warranty.

It states they can help if there are technical issues, packaging issues, the wrong item in the box, operational issue, or you are overall unsatisfied with your purchase.

Design & Setup

Right out of the box you are presented with a sleek and fairly compact metal design, with a wrapped up 1.5 meter cord. Navy blue in color, this durable metal microphone comes ready to use as it is already placed in its stand.

The stand for the mic comes with three folded legs screwed to the microphone’s holster that lock out when pulled into place. The screwable legs allow removal and flexibility to swap over to a microphone arm should you wish to use that instead of the included tripod stand. This spread out base could create space issues if put on a smaller desk, but should be fine in most setups.

The stand features the ability to tilt the mic itself up and down according to where the user desires. The stand comes with a short and skinny arm with an attached circular pop filter. You also get a removable cover in the box that can easily be slid on and off the top of the mic. The mic can be taken completely out of its stand to be held freely by the user, however the cord isn’t exactly long enough to allow much mobility.

As far as setup goes, all you have to do is plug in the USB cable and wait momentarily for the software to automatically install.

Performance

When it comes to the topic of performance, the quality of the Tonor was surprisingly good for its relatively cheap price. It features good range, so you don’t need to have the microphone right up close to your face for it to register.

Very few technical issues arose in my usage of the microphone. However, on random occasions, the Tonor mic was found to produce a short-lived static noise, which only lasts a matter of seconds and is very quiet.

Any extraneous noise is unwelcome when it comes to professional recording or broadcasting. Given the chance to edit your audio, or re-do your take, one can easily get around these little noises.

Though there are no on-board buttons (such as input volume control or a mute button), this microphone is a pleasure to use in live streaming, recording, or even just casual play.

Conclusion

With this USB mic being only $40, it makes a very good addition to anyone’s setup.

Personally, I used this microphone more to record gameplay and for casual talk through online communication apps such as Discord. It worked great for both, certainly higher overall quality than that of a headset-attached mic.

It is available online at Tonor Mic’s website as well as Amazon for $40. Taking in its relatively small size, good sound quality, ease of use, and low price, this microphone will certainly get the job done no matter what you need it to do.

Bluetooth speakers: How to find the best one

AndroidGuys
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EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be viewed as an editorial endorsement.

Would you like to have the best Bluetooth speaker?

It can be a tricky thing to buy something innovative and productive. Options are not limited; still, you need to consider many things while spending a handful of money.

Today, everyone likes to have the latest products for personal use. You must be having lots of products for regular use. When it comes to having a Bluetooth speaker that comes under your budget with all the best features, you can find out from our collection.

Here we have made a list of all the best Bluetooth speakers of different shapes, sizes, price, and features. We highly make sure for our users to get the best product.

Do you know that Bluetooth speakers never compromise over sound quality?

Some of the speakers are enriched with impressively room-filling and 360-degree sound as compared to others. It does not matter whether you have a shortage of money or have enough budget; each product given below will be the best pick.

Here is a list of some of the best Bluetooth speakers of 2020:

  • UE Megaboom 3
  • Sonos Move
  • Tribit MaxSound Plus
  • JBL Flip 5
  • Anker Soundcore 2

UE Megaboom 3

UE Megaboom 3 is a portable wireless Bluetooth speaker that gives super-powerful and high-quality 360-degree sound. With rumbling bass, waterproof, dust, and drop proof features, it offers a remarkably high-performance structure.

You will enjoy a genuinely balanced and ideally clear sound. With spatial 360-degree sound, this speaker has a classic cylindrical design that produces impressive and stereophonic sound. No distortion or exaggeration you will witness while enjoying your favorite tracks.

The bigger woofers and greater size produce powerful bass that you can hear and feel. Virtually, this is unbreakable as it has a tough design. It has passed about 25 careful durability tests such as tumbles, drop tests, 1000s of button pushes, and much more.

Don’t worry if your speaker drops or has water spills. It will not get any damage. Moreover, it has all new magic buttons that let you play, pause, or skip tracks directly from the speaker.

A two-tone fabric covers the body of MegaBoom 3, which makes it look adorable. It gives about 20-hours of playtime with the latest battery cell technology used in high performance electric cars.

Furthermore, you can use App to download features including PartyUp Remote On/Off, Block Party, Customizable EQ, Tap Controls, Musical Alarm and much more.

In a nutshell, this speaker can be an ultimately redefined speaker.

Sonos Move

High-end smarts can be experienced with Sonos sound. Sonos brand produces high-quality products. This speaker gives 10 hours of battery time and has Alexa as well as Google Assistant Voice controls.

With 9.4 x 6.3 x 5 inches dimensions, it has 6.6 lbs weight. Move has a water resistance feature with IP56 rated for splashes. You can have a great sound quality with this wireless Bluetooth speaker.

Would you like to enjoy crispy, booming and highly clear sound?

With Sonos Move, you can have it all as it functions with all streaming services such as Apple Music, Spotify, and sports Apple AirPlay 2 support. Besides, you can even divert the connectivity option from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi easily.

With Alexa and Google Assistant support, you can have all the latest updates of weather. Auto TruePlay of Move, tunes the audio output of the speaker whether you are indoor or outdoor.

Tribit MaxSound Plus

Are you aware of the Tribit brand?

It might be a new brand for some users, but it has made its place in the race of Bluetooth speakers. Regardless of price, it gives high-quality audio to enjoy. MaxSound Plus has dual forward-firing drivers as well as passive radiators in just an 8 inch-long pill shape.

Though it cannot let you have a dream dance party, still it can produce sound clarity that will truly impress you. Moreover, it has an extra bass button that can add a little more vibe.

With Tribit Plus, you can have a playtime of 15 to 20 hours and an IPX7 waterproof rating. For some backyard tunes, this speaker is the best partner. In case, if you don’t want extra bass and want a little 7-inch speaker, then what are you waiting for. It’s one of the best speakers under hundred bucks and you won’t have to break your bank to get top-notch Bluetooth connectivity. This premium speaker can fulfill all your needs.

JBL Flip 5

Who does not want to have fun?

JBL Flip 5 can add up more spice to your fun time. Without any add-ons this portable speaker is the best pick for fun lovers. It gives about 12 hours of playtime and it has 1.2 lbs weight.

With 4.2 version of Bluetooth, Flip 5 has 40mm of drivers and 65Hz-20kHz frequency response. When you use this speaker, you will get to know that not all the best Bluetooth speakers have the most striking specifications.

This speaker has Bluetooth only playback with self-effacing features. However, if you want a strong, grand sounding portable speaker that can compromise over voice control, you will be satisfied with the performance.

It has IPX7 rating and decent design is compatible for outdoor and indoor use. Also, the price is not too much as everyone can have it easily. Moreover, it comes in different colors including striking camo print.

Now, Eco Edition is limited made from 90% of recycled plastic and the whole packaging of portable speaker is biodegradable. If that’s something you don’t want to get then have a look at SoundCore’s Flare 2.

Anker SoundCore 2

Anker is an impressive brand manufacturing products since long. SoundCore 2 has 6.5 x 2.1 x 1.77 inches dimensions with 12.6 ounces weight. You can enjoy 24 hours of playtime with a water resistance feature.

Those who have a limited budget will surely turn to buy this amazing Anker Speaker. Don’t underestimate the size, as it can produce loud, clear and well-balanced sound within an IPX5 rated design. It can bear dust, snow and splashes.

With best in class battery technology, this speaker gives much more time to enjoy. Moreover, it has dual neodymium drivers that make sure to deliver powerful sound.

You can place it in the bag while on your road trip. And it has different vibrant colors to choose from. The price affordability makes this speaker more preferred than other similar brands.

Things to watch out before buying a portable Bluetooth speaker

Nowadays, portable Bluetooth speakers are the best accessories. As our busy routine progresses with connected devices, audio speakers are the most focusing accessories.

High-quality Bluetooth speakers tend to provide multiple features with different price range. On the other hand, basic speakers provide the maximum possible quality with little features. Here is a list of things you should consider while buying a portable Bluetooth speaker.

Bluetooth Version 

Bluetooth is a major element in Bluetooth speakers as the quality of audio and distance all depends upon it. Generally, Bluetooth 4 is the best option because this version can add support for low energy profile.

However, Bluetooth 5 is the most advanced version and it can perk up the data transmission rate.

Charging Style 

Standard style of charging is the USB port and it is additional support when you are not at home. These days, most of the speakers tend to have Micro-USB port and it allows you to charge with power banks.

Battery Life 

Nobody wants a speaker that does not have enough playtime. Ranging from 8 to 25 hours battery life, batteries of speakers have different stamina according to the technology used in battery.

Portability, Distortion and Loudness 

While buying a portable Bluetooth speaker, you need to confirm the portability. Some speakers deliver great sound quality, but they are not portable. Moreover, loudness is another great factor  to look for. You have to ensure the frequency range that should be around 100Hz-20,000Hz.

Your Bluetooth speaker should be providing distortion free sound. As you play any track, there must not be any noise and it should be clear all the way.

To Sum Up

These were a few basic things you must watch out before buying a wireless Bluetooth speaker. Always keep in mind the specs, budget, and availability of any accessory you plan to buy.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be viewed as an editorial endorsement.

Android’s file sharing Nearby Share is now live

Andrew Allen
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One feature that has been missing in the Android space for some time is the option to easily share files and contacts wireless with other Android users. Apple has had this with AirDrop for years, but Google has never brought a comparable protocol to the table. Finally, the rumors have been confirmed with Nearby Share available to Android.

Nearby Share gives consumers a great option to quickly share links, photos, contacts, and documents with Android users instantly. The service works over cell networks, Bluetooth, WebRTC, or WiFi. This gives folks multiple avenues to deliver the shared files both on and offline.

Google’s blog post also states that privacy settings are available in the app to make sure you have some more granular controls over how you can be found and receive files. You can change this from “all contacts” to “some contacts” or “hidden”. These privacy settings should allow you to add a layer of security to make sure you are only receiving or sending files to your most trusted friends or colleagues.

Chromebooks are also not forgotten in this update. Chrome OS is quickly becoming the jack of all trades operating system and Google has made Nearby Share available on this platform as well. File sharing seemed like a natural progression of the already good continuum experience of Instant Tethering from Chrome OS devices to Android phones and we are glad Moutain View’s finest took the time to make this compatible day one.

Nearby Share is a long-awaited addition to the Android ecosystem. While we like to think that Apple steals from Google on a consistent basis for new iOS features, this has been a gap in the Android experience that just needed to be fixed.

Pixels and “select Samsung devices” should already see Nearby Share on the devices. Google will continue the trend of rolling releases of new Android options like this with future handsets getting Nearby Share over the coming months.

Cool tech gifts under $100

AndroidGuys
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EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be viewed as an editorial endorsement.

In the era of digitalization and lots of tech advancements appearing every day, you have no choice but adapt to our quickly-changing world. Tech gadgets are cool: they simplify our life and make it much more convenient. Besides, they become an irreplaceable part of our daily routine, just like smartphones once did. More attention to tech gadgets are paid in college: students are in need of helpful devices as well as reliable services like papercoach, which you can pay for an essay or just delegate your homework. Tech gadgets can also become a great gift for everyone, from a teenager to a retired person. In this guide, we will cover the top popular of them that will not cost you a fortune.

Top gadgets for under $100 budget

How many times have your smartphone, quick Internet connection, and professional student service united to make wonders? You just choose a reliable resource based on speedy paper review and other agencies’ feedback, then send a request like «Can you do my homework for me?» or «Can you write my essay for me cheap?» and receive a completed task within a short timeframe. Just a decade ago, we couldn’t imagine it would have ever become possible. Now there is a variety of gadgets aimed to make our life easy and comfortable. We offer a list of top tech gifts everyone would be happy to get and which cost no more than $100 (however, today $100 can get you quite far):

Streaming stick

A device like the Chromecast will cost you around $70, if not less, and is good for people who love streaming like bloggers or just enjoy watching Netflix. All tech giants like Apple, Amazon, and Google have invested in the development of the streaming revolution so you can find a variety of models appearing every year (for example, Roku). It is able to deliver 4K HD video and helps you find the best place to enjoy the content easily;

Portable charger

This is a must-have device for active smartphone users that never have enough battery power (that is, for everyone). We recommend getting the one with 20,000mAh or more, which will likely cost you around $50 and will keep your phone charged seven times (this is especially convenient during the trip in the mountains, concerts, and other places where you can`t get charged a standard way). It is small, lightweight, and easily fits in the pocket or backpack. Besides charging quickly, it also does it safely based on your cable and device;

Amazon Echo Dot

This device is a mini voice assistant speaker that has access to multiple apps and using which you can control smart home devices (lights, garage door, water, and thermostat), listen to music, and order pizza. It will cost around $50 and is totally worth this money: it has a far-field system of voice recognition so you can make commands across the room while the device will react to your speech, accent, vocabulary, and patterns;

E-reader

For example, it can be Amazon Kindle for the cost of $80. If the person loves reading and cannot invest much money into regular books buying, this one will make a perfect gift. The most recent models have a nice design, enough memory to download hundreds of books, a great touch screen, and a powerful processor for convenient reading. Talking about Amazon, it also has a built-in vocabulary and the battery life of one month by active reading;

Wireless headphones

If you are looking for a gift under $100, you can consider the Shure SE112 model that has a solid construction, built-in microphone for making calls, great quality of the sound, and a smooth Bluetooth connection. These headphones provide outstanding performance within a limited budget so you can enjoy music on the go;

Drone

Depending on the model, it will cost you around $100, and it will be a perfect gift for travelers and just nature lovers. It is lightweight, has stabilization features, and is controlled via an app. Cheaper models can record videos in 720p, which still makes great quality.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be viewed as an editorial endorsement.

Tribit StormBox portable wireless speaker review

AndroidGuys
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Bluetooth speakers come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and price points. To say that it’s easy to find something that works for you would likely be an understatement.

Bluetooth speakers are also widely available; they’re found not just in electronics stores, but general retail stores and myriad online outlets, too.

For every big-name branded speaker that you’ll encounter in your hunt, there also will be unknown companies competing for your attention and money. Take, for instance, Tribit.

Although it doesn’t have the same market presence as Ultimate Ears, it does have a growing portfolio of competing products with lower prices. Its StormBox speaker is one of the brand’s latest products and we’ve had a chance to check one out.

Design

The Tribit StormBox is a cylindrical speaker that takes up about as much space as a large energy drink. Although its buttons lead you to believe there’s a specific front to it, the shape lends itself to a 360-degree sound.

Speaking of buttons, the StormBox keeps things simple. There are volume controls and a multi-function power/pairing button. Oh, and there’s also an XBass button that’s used to take sound to the next level.

The speaker has a hard mesh exterior and an IPX7 rating which means it’s built to withstand splashes and scrapes. At the top is a lanyard that makes it easy to carry or connect to a bag. Nice and portable, it weighs in around one pound total.

Although it pairs via Bluetooth, the StormBox also has a 3.5mm auxiliary input for directly connecting to audio sources. It, and the microUSB charging port are located under a protective rubber flap that keeps things dry.

Also worth noting, you can pair multiple StormBox speakers together to create a stereo sound. We did not have the chance to test the feature out.

What’s Included?

  • Tribit Bluetooth Speaker
  • Micro USB Cable
  • Black Lanyard
  • User Manual

Setup

There’s very little to mess with here as it’s more or less a case of powering on and holding down the pairing button. You don’t have to worry about any apps or phone settings.

Performance

I was quite happy with how the speaker performed as it did everything it promised. The StormBox had no problem filling large rooms and open spaces. You could easily hear whatever was playing throughout any room.

The water-resistance worked pretty well. It was a bit muffled, but nothing drastic. Overall, I thought the speaker did really well underwater.

As for the special button, I didn’t feel that the XBass button had much effect. I wish it had been a bit stronger.

The battery life is reported to be twenty hours. I used it right out of the box and used it for about ten hours, and haven’t had to charge it yet. The manual includes a guide to figuring out the different functions, including how to understand your battery level. It isn’t very obvious, but there is a column of lights on the back that will give you a general idea.

Conclusion

One of the best selling points of the StormBox is that it comes with an 18-month warranty. Not only that, but you can extend it out to 30 months at no extra cost. This process is done online at Tribit’s website.

Given the affordable ($60) price, this is a great speaker option for people who might want something for around the home, office, or pool. It’s portable, sounds great, and has an excellent battery life.

Availability

The Tribit StormBox comes in a variety of color options, including blue, black, and red. Look for it at Tribit’s website and Amazon for about $60.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, Galaxy Buds Live now available

AndroidGuys
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Samsung on Wednesday introduced its newest wearable, the Galaxy Watch 3, and its next-generation of earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Live. Both are set to go on sale August 6.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

The Galaxy Watch 3, available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, can be had with Bluetooth-only and LTE-ready versions. Both sizes have full-color, always-on OLED displays protected by Gorilla Glass.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is a more upscale approach to wearables, and its price is proof positive. At $399 and up, it runs about $70 more than the first-gen watch and $150 more than the Watch Active 2.

The Galaxy Watch 3 has a familiar look with a physical rotating dial and two buttons on the side. And while it looks a little heavier and clunkier than the Active wearable, you may be surprised.

The Galaxy Watch 3 is reported to be 14 percent thinner and 15 percent lighter than its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch. And while there is no Galaxy Watch 2, there is a Galaxy Watch Active. As such, the new model builds on features found in both.

The 41mm version will be sold in bronze or silver options; the 45mm version will be silver or black.

The Galaxy Watch 3 is designed with stainless steel and comes with a color-matched leather band. According to Samsung, a titanium model will be offered later this year.

As far as features go, the Galaxy Watch 3 features enhanced sleep tracking with improved algorithms and more precise data. It also has a trip/fall detection that can notify a contact when one is detected.

Also present are the standard suite of features including notifications from apps, customizable watchfaces, mobile payment (Samsung Pay), a speaker for alerts and calls, hands-free Bixby assistant, and more.

Samsung Pay for mobile payments (NFC only), and a speaker for playing alerts and taking calls. Samsung says the battery life can last up to two days between charges.

The Galaxy Watch 3 will sell for $399.99 (41mm) and $429.99 (45mm), with the LTE-ready version at $449.99 and $479.99, respectively.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

Samsung’s latest wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Live, are priced $170 and come in three colors (Mystic White, Mystic Black, and Mystic Bronze).

Similar to Apple’s standard AirPods, the Galaxy Buds Live feature have an open design, which mean they’ll sit in your ear without having to force them into your canal. They’ll come two sets of “wingtips” to help ensure a more secure fit.

The Galaxy Buds Live are rated for eight hours of playback with noise canceling off and up to six hours with it enabled. The charging case, which charges wirelessly or through USB-C, provides about 2.5 additional charges. According to Samsung, a five-minute quick charge yields an hour of battery life.

The Galaxy BBuds Live are IPX2 water-resistant and sweat-resistant so you can work out in them or build up a sweat from running.

Samsung has added a couple of features for those who own a Galaxy phone or tablet, including low-latency gaming mode. Bixby, Samsung’s voice assistant, can also be used hands-free by saying, “Hi, Bixby.”

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