Better Mobile Xperience (BMX), the team behind the revolutionary Hyper brand, is making strides in the world of consumer electronics safety. Amid rising concerns and widespread recalls of lithium batteries, BMX has announced the launch of its SolidSafe line of power banks. These portable chargers are designed to use solid-state battery cells, offering a safer, more durable alternative to traditional lithium-ion and polymer batteries.
A Solid Solution to a Growing Problem
The SolidSafe power banks are more than just a clever play on words; they represent a tangible solution to a global issue. The past year has seen over 1.7 million battery packs recalled worldwide, and airlines have begun to tighten restrictions on battery safety. The SolidSafe power banks aim to alleviate these concerns by using solid-state cells, which significantly reduce the risk of fire and device failure.
These power banks are not only safer but also more reliable. Solid-state cells are less prone to degradation over time, meaning fewer replacements and more consistent power delivery. BMX has designed the SolidSafe power banks with the needs of creators, commuters, and parents in mind. With up to twice the lifespan of typical lithium batteries, these power banks are perfect for those who demand dependable, everyday power.
Designed for Convenience and Safety
The SolidSafe lineup includes three battery models – the 5K, 10K, and the 10K with microSD expansion – and two charging docks. Each model features a solid-state battery design that cuts flammable liquid content and delivers up to two times the lifespan of standard lithium batteries. The power banks also offer 15W Qi magnetic wireless charging and a USB-C in/out for fast charging. Users can easily monitor their battery percentage and charge speed through a color LCD display. A built-in USB-C lanyard cable ensures that your charging cable is always with you, while a premium finish adds a touch of style.
Pricing and Availability
The SolidSafe 5K, 10K, and 10K+ models are now available for purchase. Early bird prices are set at $39 for the 5K model, $59 for the 10K model, and $79 for the 10K+ model with microSD. The MSRP for these models is $79, $99, and $129 respectively.
Customers who purchase three SolidSafe power banks will receive a complementary SolidSafe Charging Dock. The dock, available in 3-Port (20W) and 5-Port (30W) models, charges up to five power banks at once.
For more information on SolidSafe power banks, or to make a purchase, visit www.heybmx.com.
Globally-renowned technology manufacturer Hisense has announced the availability of its innovative 116UX RGB-MiniLED TV and the launch of a brand new 100-inch model. Boasting industry-first RGB-MiniLED technology, these TVs promise an unparalleled viewing experience with vibrant visuals and immersive sound quality.
A Quantum Leap in Display Technology
The 116UX RGB-MiniLED TV, first revealed by Hisense at CES 2025, is a technological marvel. Instead of conventional white backlights, this model uses individually controlled red, green, and blue LEDs to produce color directly from the source. This breakthrough technology, achieving 95% of the BT.2020 color space and 8,000 nits peak brightness, creates visuals with unmatched vibrancy, precision, and contrast.
The 116UX and the new 100UX are powered by the flagship Hi-View AI Engine X, which dynamically optimizes each frame for cinematic picture quality. In addition, the built-in CineStage X 6.2.2 system with Dolby Atmos creates an immersive, multidimensional sound experience. Despite its ultra-bright performance, the 116UX reduces blue-light emissions by 45%, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience even for extended periods.
Setting the Pace in the Premium Display Market
Hisense’s introduction of RGB-MiniLED technology is a significant indicator of the future of display technologies. With a sleek profile, ultra-low glare panel, and wide-angle viewing, these TVs are as much of an entertainment devices as they are a statement piece for your home. Plus, they’re prepared for future entertainment systems with next-gen connectivity options like HDMI 2.1 and Wi-Fi 6E.
A Glimpse into the Future: MicroLED Displays
Hisense also plans to expand its premium portfolio with the 136MX, a 136-inch ultra-luxury MicroLED display. This display will feature self-emissive pixels for perfect black levels, infinite contrast, and exceptional brightness, setting a new benchmark for the category.
Pricing and Availability
The 116UX and 100UX RGB-MiniLED TVs are now available at select national retailers and authorized resellers, with prices starting at $29,999 MSRP and $19,999 MSRP respectively.
Google is rolling out a set of updates to the Gemini app aimed at making its AI assistant more tailored to each user while offering new ways to protect privacy. The changes include the ability to learn from past conversations, a new Temporary Chat mode, and expanded controls over how personal data is stored and used.
Smarter Conversations with Personal Context
A new “Personal context” setting allows Gemini to reference previous chats to better understand user preferences and deliver more relevant responses. When turned on, the app can recall key details—such as topics discussed or creative preferences—and incorporate them into future suggestions.
For example, if a user has talked about their favorite comic book characters, Gemini might suggest a themed birthday party complete with matching decorations. Or if a user has shared an interest in Japanese culture, the assistant could recommend new video ideas tailored to that interest.
The feature is starting with the Gemini 2.5 Pro model in select countries, with expansion to the 2.5 Flash model and more regions planned in the coming weeks. It’s enabled by default, but users can turn it off anytime in the app’s settings.
Temporary Chats for One-Off Conversations
For moments when personalization isn’t needed—or when privacy is a priority—Gemini now offers Temporary Chat. These sessions don’t appear in recent chats or Gemini Apps Activity and aren’t used to train Google’s AI models. Temporary Chats are stored for up to 72 hours solely for response generation and processing user feedback.
The feature is available starting today for some users and will continue rolling out globally over the next few weeks.
Expanded Data Controls
Google is also refining how users manage the content they share with Gemini. The “Gemini Apps Activity” setting will soon be renamed “Keep Activity,” clarifying its role in retaining a sample of uploaded content, such as files or photos, to help improve Google services.
Those who prefer not to contribute data in this way can turn off the setting or use Temporary Chats. If Gemini Apps Activity is already off, the new Keep Activity setting will remain off by default.
Earlier this month, a separate control was introduced for deciding whether audio, video, or screen shares in Gemini Live can be used to improve services. This setting is off by default and can be adjusted anytime through the Gemini Apps Privacy Hub.
Availability
The new personalization, Temporary Chat, and updated privacy controls begin rolling out today, with wider availability expected in the coming weeks. More information is available through the Gemini Apps Privacy Hub.
As the back-to-school season approaches, students and parents are on the hunt for the perfect tech gadget that combines performance, affordability, efficiency, and connectivity. Look no further than the latest range of laptops powered by Snapdragon, Qualcomm’s flagship processor.
These Snapdragon-powered laptops are a great choice for students, offering a variety of options at different price points. Whether it’s for note-taking in a lecture hall, researching in a busy cafeteria, or designing a presentation for a group project, these laptops are a game-changer in educational and creative endeavors.
Versatile Options for Every Student
Snapdragon laptops are available for purchase from several retailers including Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart. With an array of powerful devices to choose from, students can find the perfect device that fits their needs and budget.
Lenovo Ideapad Slim 3x
The Lenovo Ideapad Slim 3x, for instance, comes with a 45 TOPS Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for smooth AI and multitasking, all-day battery life, and rapid charge. Users can get two hours of power in just 15 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for students on the go.
ASUS, a prominent player in the tech industry, offers two standout models: the Vivobook 14 and Vivobook 16. Both deliver an extraordinary AI experience, along with premium audio with Snapdragon Sound.
For those seeking a more luxurious tech experience, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 15″ and ASUS Zenbook A14 are powered by Snapdragon X Plus. These models are designed to unlock higher levels of productivity, communication, and creativity.
Premium Laptops for Elite Performance
For students needing top-tier performance, Snapdragon X Elite-powered laptops offer unparalleled productivity. The HP Omnibook X 14 and Acer Swift 14 AI are packed with features like Wi-Fi 7, Snapdragon Sound, and groundbreaking on-device AI travel assistants. They also boast up to 26-hour battery life and premium Snapdragon Sound audio, perfect for binge-watching study sessions.
The ASUS Vivobook S 15 and Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 are also worth considering. These devices offer game-changing AI performance that will change the way students work, study, create, and play.
ASUS Vivobook S15
And finally, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x and Microsoft Surface Laptop 15 deliver an impressive 45 TOPS of on-device AI performance with speedy connectivity, courtesy of Wi-Fi 7 and Qualcomm FastConnect 7800.
Snapdragon: Powering the Future of Education
As we gear up for another academic year, Snapdragon-powered laptops are here to enhance the educational experience with their power, efficiency, and affordability. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a tech enthusiast, these devices are worth considering. Remember, prices and promotions are subject to change based on availability.
With the hurricane season gearing up for another round of tumultuous weather, forecasters are predicting an intense and unpredictable period. As seen in 2024, when Hurricane Helene alone caused over 4.7 million power outages across the Southeast, leaving homes and businesses in the dark for days, storm preparedness is an absolute necessity.
To help households stay powered and protected during these testing times, EcoFlow, a leading manufacturer of portable power stations, has announced its Hurricane Preparedness Deals. Starting now and running through to September 1st, customers have the opportunity to save big on their range of portable power stations.
EcoFlow’s Hurricane Prep Hero Bundles
EcoFlow’s Hurricane Prep Hero Bundles are designed to keep you safe and connected when it matters most. These bundles include the DELTA Pro Ultra, available at a 28% discount for a sale price of $4,399. The bundle that includes the DELTA Pro Ultra and a 400W Solar Panel is available at a 29% discount, with a sale price of $5,199.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 with 2*220W Solar Panel (EcoFlow)
Customers looking for comprehensive power solutions can avail of the bundle featuring the DELTA Pro Ultra, a 400W Solar Panel, and a Smart Home Panel 2. This package is available at a 29% discount, with a sale price of $6,499.
The DELTA Pro 3, another of EcoFlow’s reliable power stations, is also available with a 27% discount, bringing its sale price down to $2,699. The bundle that includes the DELTA Pro 3 and 2*220W Solar Panel is available at a 41% discount, with a sale price of $2,939.
As communities across the U.S brace for potential outages caused by extreme weather, EcoFlow’s Hurricane Preparedness Deals offer an opportunity to stay ahead of the storm. With their portable power stations, you can ensure that your home remains powered and protected, even in the face of a blackout.
Summer’s here, and it’s calling for cozy movie nights under the stars or some solo AR adventures. But hey, who wants their fun cut short by a dead battery? That’s where BLUETTIteams up with RayNeo and Yaber to make sure your gear stays powered up and ready for action. Whether you’re gathering the family for an outdoor flick or escaping into your own AR world, these portable power solutions make it all hassle-free—and a lot more fun. Ready to see how? Let’s dive in!
Stay Powered All Summer Long with BLUETTI
Meet the Elite 100 V2 portable power station—BLUETTI’s newest 1kWh model and the successor to the popular AC180 portable power station. It packs a punch with 1800W output but slimmed down by over 30% in size and weight. Translation? You get serious power without lugging around heavy gear.
This compact powerhouse doesn’t just keep projectors and AR glasses running longer—it also keeps you comfortable when the summer heat kicks in. Whether you’re camping, grilling in the backyard, living the vanlife, or dealing with power outages during hurricane season, the Elite 100 V2 has your back.
Power Your “Me Time” with RayNeo AR Glasses
Sometimes summer calls for a little “me time.” Pair RayNeo’s Air 3s AR Glasses with the Elite 100 V2, and boom—you’ve got a private cinema or gaming lounge anywhere. Imagine a virtual 201-inch screen bursting with vibrant colors and sharp details—all without needing a dark room.
With 11 output ports, the Elite 100 V2 quietly fuels your smartphone, gaming laptop, or VR headset, while the Air 3s’ micro-OLED display makes every moment deeply immersive.
Keep “Family Time” Going with Yaber Projector
And for family fun? The Yaber T2 Plus GTV projector’s 2.5-hour battery life? BLUETTI’s Elite 100 V2 stretches it to nearly 10 hours. Crisp 1080p visuals, smooth streaming, and no power worries. Plus, it can run mini fans, string lights, and even a portable cooler—turning any backyard or campsite into the ultimate open-air movie theater.
Save Smart and Enjoy More
Here’s the kicker: you don’t have to grab all three products to save big. Pick one, two, or all three—just sign up for BLUETTI’s “Midsummer Night’s Dream” campaign and score up to 10% off across the board.
Looking for wallet-friendly ways to keep your summer powered? Explore BLUETTI’s portable power stations perfect for camping and reliable home battery backups built for hurricane season and everyday life.
Dutch tech manufacturer Fairphone, known for its commitment to sustainable electronics, has recently announced the introduction of its new lineup of chargers and cables. The company’s latest offerings promise to be three times more durable than their predecessors, are crafted from over 55% recycled and fair materials, and are built using 100% green energy.
Redefining Sustainability with High-Performance Technology
These new products are designed to offer cutting-edge performance without compromising ethical production practices. The USB-C cables now support 240W fast charging and 8K video output, while the compact chargers offer universal fast charging. This innovation from Fairphone not only enhances sustainability but also improves labor conditions and supports living wages.
Chandler Hatton, Chief Technology Officer at Fairphone, states that these products are a clear demonstration of how high-performance tech can be made responsibly. The products are built to last with long-term sustainability at their core.
Durable Cables with 100% Recycled Copper Wires
The new USB-C cables are crafted for durability, with testing to endure over 70,000 bends, which is seven times the endurance of many other cables in the market. They support charging speeds up to 240W, data transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps, and video output, including 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 30Hz.
The cables also feature a removable USB-A adapter for added flexibility and a modular cable organizer to replace the earlier Velcro strap, enhancing long-term usability. Fairphone has also extended the warranty to three years for these cables.
Compact, Powerful, and Sustainable Chargers
Fairphone’s new 30W chargers showcase the company’s commitment to responsible tech. These chargers promise universal fast charging and broad compatibility while supporting the latest charging protocols. You’ll also appreciate the extended three-year warranty and enhanced safety features, ensuring your devices stay safe and sound while they juice up!
The chargers are constructed with 100% recycled plastics and the plug pins are made from recycled copper-zinc alloy. Like the cables, the chargers are assembled entirely with 100% green energy and are e-waste neutral.
New Product Lineup
Fairphone will also be launching a new 65W charger later in the year, featuring dual USB-C ports and a USB-A port. This powerful charger can charge a laptop and two additional devices simultaneously.
The new lineup includes:
Fairphone Charger 65W (launching in Q3)
Fairphone Charger 30W
USB 2 Cable – 1 meter and 2.5 meters
USB 3 Cable – 1 meter
All the cables are built to withstand over 70,000 bends with USB 2 cables and over 100,000 bends with USB 3 cables.
Availability
The Fairphone cables are now available, the 30W charger will be available by the end of June, and the 65W charger will be available in Q3. All products can be purchased on the Fairphone website and through partner retailers.
If you’ve ever wondered why your car insists on a cable just to use CarPlay or Android Auto, you’re not alone. For all the smart features our phones can handle, it’s frustrating that so many vehicles, particularly models that are just a few years old, still demand a physical connection. Whether you’re running errands, commuting, or just heading out for a weekend drive, plugging and unplugging your phone every single time starts to feel like an unnecessary ritual.
That’s where the OTTOCAST Mini 2 steps in. This compact wireless adapter upgrades your existing infotainment system by doing exactly what your car should’ve done in the first place: letting you connect to CarPlay or Android Auto without a cable.
It doesn’t require an app, a subscription, or a messy install. Nope. Just plug it in and go. And for under $100, it turns that “almost-smart” car into something that finally feels caught up.
What It Is and What It Solves
The OTTOCAST Mini 2 is a 2-in-1 wireless adapter designed to work with vehicles that already support wired CarPlay or Android Auto. Its job is simple: replace that wired connection with a wireless one, so you can leave your phone in your pocket, bag, or wireless charging cradle and still get full access to your favorite driving apps.
This might sound like a small change, but in daily use, it makes a real difference. No more fumbling with cords. No more forgetting to plug in and realizing halfway down the street that your maps or music aren’t synced. The adapter connects to your phone automatically, giving you the same functionality and with far less friction.
Compatibility and Phone Support
The OTTOCAST Mini 2 works with over 800 different vehicle models that feature wired CarPlay or Android Auto. That includes a wide range of makes and models, from popular sedans and SUVs to trucks and compact cars. It supports both iPhones (for wireless CarPlay) and Android smartphones (for wireless Android Auto), so it’s a good option regardless of which ecosystem you’re in.
There are two major exceptions: BMW and Tesla are not currently supported. If your vehicle falls into either of those categories, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But for everyone else, compatibility is strong and setup is impressively smooth.
Key Features That Make It Worthwhile
True 2-in-1 Wireless: Supports both CarPlay and Android Auto, automatically detecting your device and launching the correct interface without any manual switching.
Stable Connection: Uses Bluetooth 4.2 for initial pairing and a 5GHz Wi-Fi link for ongoing performance. That dual-connection method keeps latency low and performance steady which is important for voice commands, real-time navigation, and music streaming.
Plug-and-Play Simplicity: There’s no app to download and no settings to tweak. Plug it into your car’s USB port and it walks you through a quick setup process the first time. After that, it remembers your phone and reconnects automatically.
Multiple Control Options: Whether you use steering wheel buttons, a rotary knob, touchscreen, or even a touchpad, the OTTOCAST Mini 2 works with your car’s existing interface. Voice assistant support is included too, so you can say “Hey Google” or “Hey Siri” or to control things hands-free.
Real-World Use: Set It and Forget It
What stands out most in actual day-to-day use is how invisible the OTTOCAST Mini 2 becomes after setup. You plug it in once, pair your phone, and from then on, it just works. Start the car, and within seconds, your apps appear on-screen without lifting a finger.
The transition between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is fast enough that you rarely notice any lag or glitching. Whether you’re navigating a new route, jumping between playlists, or taking a call, everything feels just as responsive as it would with a wired connection.
It took me a few times to get over the impulse to plug my phone into the car for Android Auto. After that, I came to love that I was able to plug into a car charger instead and recharge the handset faster. And then there are the times where I really love simply keeping it in my pocket.
Size, Design, and Fit
The Mini 2 earns its name as it’s genuinely compact, measuring just under an inch wide and about two inches long, and it weighs only 1.44 ounces. It’s small enough to leave connected all the time without cluttering your center console or USB area. The matte-black finish and rounded edges give it a clean, neutral look that blends in with most car interiors.
OTTOCAST Mini 2 Specs at a Glance
Type: 2-in-1 wireless adapter for CarPlay and Android Auto
Connectivity: Dual Bluetooth 4.2 + 5GHz Wi-Fi
Phones Supported: iPhone, Samsung, other Android phones
Car Compatibility: 800+ models with wired CarPlay/Android Auto (excluding BMW and Tesla)
At $59.00 on Amazon, the OTTOCAST Mini 2 isn’t bargain-bin cheap, but it’s also not overpriced for what it offers. Compared to full aftermarket head unit replacements (which can run $400 or more), this is a budget-friendly way to modernize your existing setup.
Given the build quality, wide compatibility, and how often you’ll use it (every time you drive), it’s the kind of upgrade that quickly pays for itself in convenience alone. No subscriptions. No monthly fees. Just a one-time plug-in fix that makes your car feel smarter.
Final Take: A Smart Little Upgrade That Solves a Daily Annoyance
Pinnacle Selection represents our highest honor, one reserved for products that stand out in design, performance, and overall value.
Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.
When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.
The OTTOCAST Mini 2 isn’t flashy, but that’s kind of the point. It solves a very specific and very common problem which is having to plug in your phone every time you drive. And it solves it well. It doesn’t require tech skills or a weekend installation project. It doesn’t mess with your car’s existing controls. And it doesn’t get in the way. You’re literally looking at five minutes of effort, max.
If you’ve been looking for a reliable way to bring your car’s infotainment system into the wireless era, this little adapter is a smart, subtle way to do it. Just plug it in, pair your phone, and enjoy the freedom of cord-free driving. It’s seriously as easy as that.
Perhaps best of all, the Mini 2 is backed by lifetime technical support and replacement.
T-Mobile has announced the release of their newest smartphone, the T-Mobile Revvl 8. This latest addition to its Revvl lineup, which also includes the Revvl Tab 2, is now available exclusively at T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile stores and online.
The Revvl 8 is designed to impress, with spec upgrades that compete with higher-priced counterparts, and an attractive price tag of just $199.99.
The smartphone features a Qualcomm processor, a larger battery with super-fast charging, Gemini AI for improved performance, and an enhanced 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), ensuring sharper photos, smoother videos, and better low-light photography. Plus, with a limited lifetime warranty and five years of security updates for peace of mind, this phone packs a punch in the value stakes.
More Than Just a Smartphone: A Host of Perks and Benefits
Buyers of the new Revvl 8 will also enjoy a suite of benefits and perks, including T-Satellite with Starlink to stay connected nearly anywhere, free season-long subscriptions to MLS Season Pass and MLB.TV when available, and free in-flight Wi-Fi and international data in over 215 countries.
T-Mobile customers also gain access to an entertainment streaming bundle with Apple TV+, Hulu and Netflix all on Us, and everyday perks like free DashPass by DoorDash, weekly offers and freebies with T-Mobile Tuesdays, as well as hotel and rental car perks.
Metro plans come loaded with value, including T-Mobile Tuesdays, Scam Shield, and free season-long subscriptions to MLS Season Pass and MLB.TV. Premium plan customers gain even more perks, including an Amazon Prime membership, 100GB of storage with Google One, and HD video.
Affordable Deals for New and Existing Customers
T-Mobile has rolled out several attractive offers for both new and existing customers. New customers can get the Revvl 8 for free when adding a line on most plans or when trading in a device on Experience More, Experience More for Business, Experience Beyond, and Experience Beyond for Business plans. Existing T-Mobile customers can get the new Revvl 8 free with the above offers via 24 monthly bill credits plus tax or for $8.33/month on T-Mobile’s Equipment Installment Plan.
At Metro, customers who switch can get the Revvl 8 for free when joining for as low as $40 per month. And yes, the latest plans at Metro also come with the 5-year price guarantee on talk, text, and data.
In a world where tech gadgets often come with a hefty price tag, T-Mobile’s Revvl 8 offers a breath of fresh air, proving that top-notch features and quality do not always have to break the bank.
I’ve been an avid gym goer, focusing on CrossFit, for over five years now. I never used any fitness routine before and really found myself enjoying it. During this time, I’ve used several options to journal my health and fitness progress, but predominantly stick with Garmin. New entries like AmazFit our actively seeking to offer gym enthusiasts more options like the new AmazFit Helio Strap.
The AmazFit Helio Strap has a lot to like for someone looking for a more understated option for fitness tracking. Will it lure me away from my Garmin loyalties?
Design
Let’s start with the elephant in the room. Any CrossFit fan knows that the Whoop Band is the official tracker of the sport, and is shoved down your throat in ads and marketing around the company’s events. The new AmazFit Helio Strap is unabashedly borrowing heavily from the Whoop in design. Any average consumer would easily mistake the Helio and Whoop in images.
That’s not a bad thing, but rather the simple industrial elements that make up the Helio Strap. It consists of a plastic casing that houses the biometric sensors wrapped in a nylon Velcro band. That’s pretty much it. The overall design, much like Whoop’s, takes a fitness chest or bicep tracker we’d traditional seen from the likes of Garmin and Polar, and shrinks it down for more casual day-to-day wear on the wrist.
AmazFit does all this and I think makes it better in two major factors. One, no subscription required. $99 out the door gets you this great tracker, versus anywhere from $200 to $350 per year to own a Whoop. Second, the Helio Strap allows you to use any 22mm watch band if you don’t like the included nylon setup.
While I’m on the physical strap of the Helio Strap. It’s far too small. It either needs a ton more stretch or there should be a small and large variant in the box. I have to fully unhook the Strap to get it on my average size hands to the wrist. I was really surprised at the lack of length out of the box.
Rounding out the spec sheet is the optical Biotracker 6.0 sensor arrays, Bluetooth 5.2 with BLE, accelerometer, gyroscope, and temperature readings. You can count on full waterproofing up to 5ATM/50 meters for up to 10 minutes, and can be used in both swimming and shower environments.
Software and Fitness Tracking
I won’t spend a ton of time here on the main portions of the Zepp app experience. I just covered this in detail if you want to check it out in my AmazFit Balance 2 review. However, I’ll focus this entire section on where the AmazFit Helio Strap sets itself apart from its own siblings, and the greater competition. There are two big features that really showcase the screen-less Helio Strap.
First, is the autodetection of workouts. With the omission of a screen and buttons, you can’t actively start a manual workout activity directly from the Helio. While, you can open a workout and start it from the smartphone companion Zepp app, it relies on the internal sensors to autodetect them instead.
At just $99 with no subscription, the AmazFit Helio Strap delivers impressive Biocharge recovery tracking, long battery life, and a sleek, screen-free design. It’s a smart choice for CrossFitters and fitness enthusiasts looking for a simpler, more affordable alternative to Whoop or Garmin.
I found this option to be hit or miss in my testing. Zepp actually pushed an update while I’ve been using it to help fine-tune the autodetection, being far too sensitive at launch. Myself, and others, were logging workouts simply by walking around the house, and I am happy to report that this has gotten better with the software update.
I might argue it’s been a little too subdued since, with you really having to push yourself in a workout to activate the tracking. I’d also like to point out that it often takes over 30 minutes after the activity is completed to finally write to the app. There’s definitely room for AmazFit to tweak this somehow and lessen the time from your workout to showing the results.
I also find that it consistently logs two different activities and both are longer than what I would manually log with the Balance 2 or something from Suunto. I usually get the actual workout of around an hour, and then it adds another 20-30 minutes of another less intense session.
My guess is, while coming off the high heart rate of the workout, the Helio Strap sees any spike in HR during the few minutes following as a continuation. It’s another small tweak that needs to be address for me along with actual workout sessions still see a much more generous swing in calories burned versus any competition I’ve tested. This was evident in the Balance 2 review, and here as well with the Helio.
The other glowing option for the Helio Strap via the Zepp app is the BioCharge feature. This calculation takes in the majority of your previous, and current, metrics to basically tell you how recovered you are. Think of it as how you should actually feel based on recovery and previous training.
This is heavily inspired by the Garmin Body Battery that essentially does the same thing. While it’s still not as good as Garmin’s offering, I do find it better than any other option in the space. I consistently found it was well in range of how I felt that day based off sleep and training the previous 24 hours. Once you have a dashboard like this, you’ll be surprised how much you take from seeing it every morning.
Battery Life and Charging
AmazFit estimates the battery life at around ten days of mixed usage. I’ve found this to be relatively accurate. I was able to get 11 days in my first week with shorter workout sessions being logged. When I pushed it the next two weeks with additional session lengths, it dropped to just over nine days way from an outlet.
I’m impressed with battery life, and I’m also glad to see that the Balance 2 and Helio Strap share the same USB-C charging puck. The two-pin POGO charger is simple and effective. It’s nice to see this available across its lineup. Not only is it nice to maybe use both in tandem, or if you upgrade, you basically inherit a spare. Small things like this grow brand loyalty.
Final Thoughts
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.
I personally prefer a full watch for tracking my physical fitness, but the Helio Strap feels a void for those that want a more understated option without a subscription and the superb BioCharge features. There is a market for a good fitness tracker with no screen, or even buttons. It looks great and is comfortable for both workouts and sleeping with little notice of it being there. Tag on that it’s only $100, and you have something that can pique the interest of Whoop and Garmin users alike.
You can snag your brand new AmazFit Helio Strap from either AmazFit directly or from Amazon at our links below.
