Home Blog Page 84

Boox Note Air 4C Tablet Review

Andrew Allen
-
0
Boox Note Air 4C Tablet Review

For years, Onyx has been at the forefront of the E-ink industry, consistently delivering top-tier devices. The new Onyx Boox Note Air 4c continues this legacy, setting a new benchmark for what a color e-paper tablet can be.

This device is a joy to use. With its vibrant color display and user-friendly Android interface, the Note Air 4c has quickly become an essential part of my daily routine, seamlessly integrating with my Google and Play Store accounts as an all-around e-reader tablet.

Design and Build

The Note Air 4c sports a sleek, modern design with a sturdy aluminum frame. The “big bezel,” as some call it, is a brilliant and intentional feature, providing a comfortable grip without obscuring the screen. At just 5.8mm thick and weighing 430 grams, it’s incredibly portable, making it an ideal companion for work, study, or leisure. 

The magnetic back allows for effortless attachment to the included folio case, which also features a convenient pen holder. I’m just going to say it, I’m not a huge fan of this case. I like the magnetic design, but it offers no drop protection and the flap to hold the pen and cover closed is flimsy at best. You can snag several other options with better protection and more sturdy pen storage from Amazon for under $30, and I highly recommend it.

Flat lay of the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c tablet cover on a wooden surface, featuring a sleek black design with a red accent line.
A colorful comic book displayed on the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c tablet, resting on a wooden surface, with a small penguin figurine and other toys in the background.

Display Refinement

The centerpiece of the Boox Note Air 4c is its 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 color E Ink screen. With a black and white resolution of 2480×1860 and a color resolution of 1240×930, the display is sharp and clear. The improved front light technology ensures an even and pleasant viewing experience in any lighting condition. The new Kaleido 3 screen offers richer colors and deeper saturation, making it perfect for everything from reading comics and magazines to annotating documents.

I think the new Boox Super Refresh is a welcome addition to the Note Air 4c as well. I have found that I see less ghosting than the previous generations. Transitions look smoother from page to page. I don’t recall ever having to initiate a manual screen refresh while using this sample unit, and that’s a regular occurrence on other E-ink displays.

The real game-changer is the flexibility of having the full Google Play Store. Jumping from the Kindle app, to Play Books, and then to Libby for my library books is seamless, creating an all-around e-reader tablet that you just don’t get with other devices. The Kaleido 3 E-ink display is also top-tier; with the new super refresh technology eliminating ghosting, it’s incredibly pleasant to view for hours on end.

Performance and Software

Running on a customized version of Android 13, the Note Air 4c offers a versatile and intuitive user experience. It’s powered by an octa-core processor plus BSR (Boox Super Refresh), complemented by the improved 6GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance whether you’re multitasking or running demanding applications. The device comes with 64GB of storage and supports a wide array of file formats, making it a true workhorse.

The pre-installed NeoReader app is a standout feature, providing extensive customization options for an optimized reading experience. You can adjust everything from font size and style to contrast and layout, tailoring the device to your exact preferences.

Close-up of the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c tablet screen displaying various app icons including Play Store, Kindle, and Libby on a light background.
Screenshot of the Google Play Store displaying various reading apps including Google Play Books, Amazon Kindle, and Audible, on an Onyx Boox Note Air 4c tablet.

Where Boox has always excelled is the flexibility of the operating system. Have full access to the Google Play Store adds a layer of availability to all types of content you don’t see on other e-reader tablets like the Kindle or ReMarkable. Jumping from the Kindle app to Play Books and then to even Libby to read rentals from my library is seamless on a single device.

Battery Life for Days

Using the E-ink technology makes for a tablet that can last weeks. I’ve had this unit well over a month now, and I’ve charged it once. It would take considerable days of long hours of usage to tax this thing in under a week. Using it to read, take down a few notes, or catch up on your favorite comics, should give you similar results while using the Note Air 4C.

When you do need to recharge, you have the trusting USB-C standard available. This makes charging the Boox Note Air 4c a breeze. Not proprietary cable needed. Just grab the closet phone or tablet charger you already own, or the one included in the box.

Close-up view of the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c showing its USB-C port and side buttons, resting on a wooden surface with a book in the background.

The Pen Experience

The included stylus, the Pen Plus, is a remarkable tool. It attaches magnetically to the tablet and offers a natural, paper-like writing experience with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. The updated firmware has significantly improved palm rejection, making note-taking more seamless than ever. 

Close-up of the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c tablet displaying handwritten notes with a stylus on a wooden table, accompanied by a green and purple figure in the background.

The Wacom layer on the screen ensures precision and responsiveness, making the Note Air 4c an excellent choice for digital artists and avid note-takers alike. I’m not a huge digital notes guy, but I have found myself using it more and more on the Note 4c. That lends to how well it performs in that area.

Final Thoughts

The Onyx Boox Note Air 4c is more than just an e-reader; it’s a powerful and versatile E Ink tablet that excels in every category. From its stunning color display and elegant design to its robust performance and exceptional writing experience, this device is a game-changer.

While the $510 price tag may seem steep, the features and functionality of the Note Air 4c justify the investment. If you’re looking for a premium E-ink device that can handle all your reading, writing, and productivity needs, the Onyx Boox Note Air 4c is, without a doubt, the tablet to get.

Purchase the Boox Note Air 4c now at Boox.com

Circular Unveils New Immunity Index to Detect Early Signs of Illness

Scott Webster
-
0
Circular Unveils New Immunity Index to Detect Early Signs of Illness

Circular, the innovative company behind the popular Circular smart ring, has just announced a potentially life-changing feature for proactive health monitoring. Dubbed the “Immunity Index”, this feature is designed to give users an advantage in detecting potential illnesses before symptoms even start to show.

The Immunity Index feature is a new addition to the Circular app, providing a daily analysis of key biometric signals. These include Heart Rate Variability (HRV), Resting Heart Rate, Sleep Breathing Regularity, and Temperature Stability. By continuously monitoring these metrics, the app generates an easy-to-understand, color-coded score on an 8-point scale, offering users a quick snapshot of their health status.

Immunity Index: A New Approach to Health Monitoring

Immunity Index feature displaying a major risk status, indicating significantly impacted vitals with a high risk of sickness. The illustration shows a person holding their head, suggesting distress.
A digital display of the Immunity Index showing a score of 6/8, labeled 'Slightly Vulnerable', with a message advising to monitor recovery and rest well, accompanied by an illustration of a person relaxing in a chair.

The Immunity Index is all about shifting from reactive to proactive health management. As Amaury Kosman, CEO and co-founder of Circular, puts it, “Our goal is to empower people with real-time insights so they can take small, smart actions before minor fatigue turns into full-blown sickness.”

The scoring system is quite intuitive:

  • 8/8 – All Clear: Vitals are in an optimal range.
  • 6/8 – Slightly Vulnerable: One metric is off, suggesting the need for rest and hydration.
  • 4/8 – Vulnerable: Signs of fatigue or strain detected, indicating a time to slow down.
  • 2/8 – Advanced Risk: Multiple warning signs, hinting at a potential compromise in immunity.
  • 0/8 – Major Risk: Immediate action is recommended to avoid illness.

Alongside the daily score, the app also provides personalized recommendations and allows users to log symptoms, offering a comprehensive tool to stay ahead of potential health setbacks.

A Step Forward in Wearable Health Tech

Screenshot of the Circular app displaying the Immunity Index feature, showing a score of 4/8 labeled as 'Vulnerable', alongside heart rate data and a reminder to log symptoms.

This feature showcases Circular’s dedication to smart, preventative health monitoring. Available to all current Circular Ring users starting July 30 with the latest app update, the Immunity Index will also be featured in the upcoming Circular Ring 2, which is set to ship later this quarter. It’s like getting ahead in the health game without having to lift a finger. Just the way we like it, right?

Smart rings, like those developed by Circular, are fast becoming a popular way to monitor personal health and wellness. The recent pre-sale campaign for the Circular Ring 2 saw over 13,000 eager consumers placing orders. Late orders can still be placed via the campaign page, offering a chance to be part of this health tech revolution.

Straight Talk Wireless Rolls Out Back-to-School Campaign to Guide Kids’ Intro to Smartphones

Scott Webster
-
0
Straight Talk Wireless Rolls Out Back-to-School Campaign to Guide Kids’ Intro to Smartphones

In a world where cyberbullying and deepfakes are a growing concern, Straight Talk Wireless is stepping up to help families. The company, powered by Verizon, is launching a Back-to-School campaign that includes an innovative solution: The First Phone Pact.

The First Phone Pact is designed to help parents and kids establish healthy digital habits before that first smartphone is even in the child’s hands. It’s more than just a list of rules; this pact is a conversation starter that covers a range of topics, from screen time limits to online etiquette.

Navigating “First Phone Season”

For many families, the back-to-school period has acquired a new significance: it’s now often the time when kids get their first smartphone, a moment referred to as “first phone season.” This exciting milestone can also be a daunting one, as a first phone opens up the entire internet world to the child.

Recent data shows growing concern about the challenges and risks of this digital exposure, with nearly 1 in 4 teens experiencing cyberbullying and 48% of teens stating that social media has a mostly negative impact on their peers. The increasing prevalence of AI-generated content and deepfakes only adds to these worries.

Logo for 'The First Phone Pact' program, featuring bold white text on a black background with 'First Phone' in large letters and 'Pact' in a vibrant green cursive font.

The First Phone Pact: A Customizable, Expert-Backed Agreement

Straight Talk Wireless aims to mitigate these concerns with The First Phone Pact. It’s a customizable, expert-backed agreement that covers key areas such as:

  • Screen time limits and phone-free zones
  • Appropriate apps and content guidelines
  • Consequences for misuse
  • Digital citizenship and online etiquette
  • Age-appropriate milestones and privileges

By providing parents with a structured way to discuss and establish digital habits, the pact aims to prepare kids for their first foray into the digital world.

Timely Deals for Back-to-School Season

In addition to launching The First Phone Pact, Straight Talk Wireless is offering families a range of deals as part of its Back-to-School campaign. These include a $100 saving on the Samsung A26 with a $55+ plan, $50 off select iPhone models with activation of a $55+ plan, and a free Moto G 5G (128 GB) with activation of a $55+ plan for new lines or upgrades.

Keeper Security Unveils Major Updates for Enhanced Security and User Experience

Scott Webster
-
0
Keeper Security Unveils Major Updates for Enhanced Security and User Experience

As a global leader in password management, Keeper Security has just rolled out significant updates to its Android and iOS mobile apps. With smartphones increasingly becoming the primary access point for sensitive data, these updates come at a crucial time, introducing several notable enhancements aimed to improve security and the overall user experience.

Redesigned User Interface

For Android users, the new 17.3 update brings a modernized user interface, making it easier and more intuitive to manage records across all platforms. This includes a refreshed look for record view, edit, and preview screens, enhanced navigation and field styling, as well as updated visual indicators for password strength.

Improved Authentication and Enhanced Search Capabilities

Keeper Security has taken steps to simplify two-factor authentication (2FA) setup processes. A new feature allows users to upload QR code screenshots for 2FA setup, providing more flexibility alongside traditional scanning and manual entry methods. With an improved search functionality, accessing records has become faster and more efficient, even for those stored in deep folder structures.

iOS Updates

The latest iOS 17.4 update introduces a new WiFi login record type, simplifying the process of saving and sharing network credentials through QR codes. This feature offers significant benefits for families and businesses needing to securely share WiFi access credentials. Additionally, iOS users can enjoy a refreshed Apple Watch experience and enhanced enterprise controls.

High Ratings and Accolades

Keeper Password Manager app has earned strong trust from its wide user base with a 4.9-star rating from over 200,000 reviews on Apple’s App Store and more than 10 million downloads from Google Play store. Keeper Security’s commitment to continuous innovation has not gone unnoticed. It has earned a top 10 ranking on Newsweek’s America’s Best Online Platforms 2025, won the Fortress Cybersecurity Award for zero-trust, and was named CHIP Magazine’s Test Winner for password managers.

“We designed our mobile apps for real life – where people and businesses need secure access to their credentials, anytime and anywhere,” said Craig Lurey, CTO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. “These updates enhance both the experience and the security behind it, giving users more control, more flexibility and peace of mind knowing their information is protected at all times.”

Availability

The updated Keeper mobile apps will be available in app stores soon. Users can download or update the app by searching “Keeper Password Manager” in their device’s app store or by visiting keepersecurity.com.

Compliance Standards That Shape Effective Business Cybersecurity Platforms

AndroidGuys
-
0
Compliance Standards That Shape Effective Business Cybersecurity Platforms

Does meeting regulatory standards involve more than ticking boxes? Is it crucial to build strong digital defenses? Companies in every industry need to follow recognized frameworks to ensure secure operations. These standards act as a foundation for steady safeguarding.

Rules and regulations set the stage for a protected digital setup. Many companies put following the rules at the top of their list to meet legal demands and cut down their chance of online dangers. This plays a big part when starting or boosting business cybersecurity. Sticking to well-known rules helps build trust and keep things the same across systems. On top of legal cover, these plans give a clear way to tackle online safety practices.

Important Compliance Frameworks to Know

Several frameworks act as reference points to structure secure digital environments. Each one fits specific sectors, but they all help boost overall resilience. The most common ones include:

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF): The National Institute of Standards and Technology created NIST CSF to cover how to spot, protect against, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber events.
  • HIPAA: Organizations dealing with health information must follow this law. It keeps patient records safe and accurate.
  • PCI DSS: Any group that handles credit cards needs to follow PCI DSS. It spells out ways to protect card info.
  • SOC 2: This standard applies to companies that provide services. It examines how they handle security, keep systems available, process data, protect confidential information, and safeguard privacy.

Picking a good tool that follows these compliance rules gives full protection to every part of a company. These systems make risk control and compliance checks easier. This helps businesses follow legal and industry rules. 

Add Compliance to Daily Work

To put standards into everyday tasks, teams need to work together. IT groups often lead this, but HR, legal, and operations must help too. Each group has its own job to keep data safe and follow the right rules. 

Choosing a trusted firm that offers solutions matching compliance standards helps add these systems to daily work. These team-ups boost productivity and reduce the risk of rule violations. Security teams must keep up-to-date files on the steps they take to handle problems and employee training.

How Regular Checks and Tests Help

Routine tests show how well systems meet compliance goals. Such inspections allow to detect problems that are not typical for the regular usage. They may be performed utilizing either in-house checks or an outside team, depending on what the system requires. Either way, the aim is to make sure security rules are always followed.

Audits also encourage accountability across departments. When every unit knows its role in compliance, responses to threats become quicker and more efficient. Security assessments create a habit of reviewing systems rather than waiting for incidents. This proactive approach keeps security practices from becoming outdated or ineffective.

Training and Access Control as Key Parts

People are essential to strong cybersecurity. Clear guidelines and effective training matter because any system can have gaps if users aren’t prepared. Teaching staff about compliance steps and data rules cuts down on mistakes.

Every worker needs to know how their actions affect company-wide safeguards. Access control is another vital part. Limiting access by job roles keeps sensitive data with the right people. Compliance rules often make companies spell out who can see, change, or move information. Using job-based access control helps meet both compliance and wider security aims.

Compliance standards serve as building blocks for secure business systems. These measures support stronger business cybersecurity while ensuring legal and industry-specific obligations are met. Selecting a certified platform that aligns with these standards also enhances client trust and satisfaction. Structured adherence to such standards remains a key part of any secure operating environment.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Tractive Expands Its Pet Tech Empire with Whistle Acquisition

Scott Webster
-
0
Tractive Expands Its Pet Tech Empire with Whistle Acquisition

Tractive, a leading name in GPS tracking and pet health insights, has announced its acquisition of Whistle, a well-known connected pet wearable brand previously owned by Mars Petcare. This move marks a significant step for Tractive as it broadens its reach in the competitive pet tech market. The acquisition not only brings Whistle’s technology assets into the fold but also expands Tractive’s already substantial customer base.

Founded in Austria in 2012, Tractive has quickly risen to become a global powerhouse in smart GPS and health trackers for pets. With over 1.4 million active users, their devices are a familiar presence in households across the globe. By bringing Whistle into its operations, Tractive is set to enhance its offerings and cement its leadership position in the industry.

A New Era for Pet Tracking

Whistle customers will soon have the opportunity to transition to Tractive’s highly acclaimed platform. Known for its top ratings by Consumer Reports and endorsements from major outlets like Amazon and The New York Times Wirecutter, Tractive offers a suite of features that are set to impress. Among these are innovations such as resting heart rate and respiratory rate monitoring, marking a first in the pet GPS and health tracking sector.

Graphic announcing Tractive's acquisition of Whistle, featuring both company logos against a gradient background with the text 'WHISTLE IS NOW PART OF TRACTIVE'.

“This acquisition is a defining moment for Tractive,” stated Michael Hurnaus, CEO and co-founder of Tractive. He emphasized the acquisition’s impact on expanding Tractive’s U.S. presence and its ability to scale its customer base. Both companies have been trailblazers in pet tracking, with Tractive focusing on the European market and Whistle pioneering in the U.S. This merger represents the culmination of parallel paths in innovation, as they unite to advance pet safety and health globally.

Advanced Features for Peace of Mind

Tractive’s smart trackers provide pet owners with real-time location tracking and a comprehensive suite of health metrics. These include activity levels, sleep patterns, barking behavior, and now, vital signs such as resting heart rate and respiratory rate. By analyzing millions of health data points daily, Tractive offers valuable insights that help ensure the safety and well-being of pets in North America and Europe.

As the pet industry continues to grow rapidly, particularly in connected pet care, Tractive is poised to lead the charge. Their devices boast long battery life, live GPS tracking, health alerts, and vital sign monitoring, all delivered through a seamless subscription model available in over 175 countries.

About Tractive

Tractive is the global leader in health monitoring and GPS tracking for dogs and cats. Their mission is to help pet parents keep their furry friends safe, healthy, and happy. With headquarters in Austria and offices in the U.S. and Germany, Tractive collaborates with major cellular providers across North America and Europe to ensure top-notch coverage wherever pets roam.

For more details about Tractive’s latest acquisition and its impact on the pet tech industry, visit their official press release.

Immersive Audio In Compact Spaces with Creative’s New Stage Pro Soundbar

Scott Webster
-
0
Immersive Audio In Compact Spaces with Creative’s New Stage Pro Soundbar

Creative, the global leader known for its Sound Blaster series, has announced the launch of its latest innovation, the Creative Stage Pro soundbar. This high-performance 2.1-channel soundbar and subwoofer system is tuned to deliver powerful, immersive audio in compact spaces.

Cinematic Sound for Compact Living Spaces

Whether you need a sound system for your desktop or living room, the Stage Pro is designed to provide an expansive audio experience without taking up too much space. Creative’s proprietary SuperWide technology projects the audio beyond the physical limits of the soundbar, giving you an unexpectedly atmospheric listening experience.

Elevating Audio Across Modern Lifestyles

The Stage Pro continues Creative’s commitment to premium sound across modern lifestyles. Whether you’re enjoying a late-night movie marathon, casual YouTube viewing, or an intense gaming session, the Stage Pro delivers an elevated immersive audio experience. Its sleek, space-conscious design offers serious performance without the clutter or complexity of traditional home audio systems, making it perfect for urban living, minimalist setups, and hybrid workspaces.

A sleek Creative Stage Pro soundbar placed beside a computer monitor on a wooden desk, with a keyboard and mouse visible, along with a small plant and a cup of pencils.
A stylish soundbar and subwoofer setup displayed on a wooden media console, complemented by a decorative plant and a modern lamp, against a textured wall.

Compact Soundbar, Big Cinematic Impact

Don’t let its size fool you. The Creative Stage Pro delivers a powerful 160W of dynamic sound through custom-tuned full-range drivers and a long-throw subwoofer. It brings emotional intensity to everything you watch, play, or hear.

Clear Audio with Dolby Digital Plus

Integrated with Dolby Audio (Dolby Digital Plus), the Stage Pro enhances the way sound is perceived, offering clear dialogue, natural tonality, and refined detail across content types. Get ready for an audio experience that’s elevated from the ground up.

Adaptable Listening Modes

The Stage Pro adapts to your space with two dedicated listening modes: Near Field Mode for immersive, close-up use, and Far Field Mode to project room-filling sound from across the room. Wherever you sit, it sounds just right.

Effortless Connectivity

With support for HDMI ARC with CEC, Bluetooth 5.3, Optical-in, AUX-in, and USB audio, the Stage Pro integrates easily with TVs, PCs, and mobile devices. In typical living room setups, gaming consoles like Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 can connect to the Stage Pro via HDMI ARC.

Availability and Pricing

The Creative Stage Pro is priced at $169.99 and is available for pre-order now at creative.com/Stagepro. Availability in Amazon US and UK is expected around 19th August.

Smart Tools for a Healthier You: Withings Gadgets That Make Wellness Stick

Scott Webster
-
0
Smart Tools for a Healthier You: Withings Gadgets That Make Wellness Stick

If you’re trying to shape up for summer, commit to long-term health goals, or just finally make use of that gym membership, having the right tools can make all the difference. The truth is, tracking progress can be tedious. Well, unless you’ve got gear that actually makes the process easier, smarter, and dare we say, a little fun.

We’ve had a number of Withings health devices come through our office over the past few months, and after plenty of hands-on time, we feel confident recommending them to anyone looking to take their wellness seriously. Whether your goals lean toward better sleep, smarter weight management, or keeping tabs on heart health, these products are designed to help you stay accountable without overcomplicating your routine.

From a scale that serves up far more than your weight, to a hybrid smartwatch with long battery life and medical-grade sensors, to a blood pressure monitor that actually makes sense of your readings, Withings is building a lineup of gadgets that go beyond the basics. Here’s a look at the ones that stood out, and why they might be worth adding to your daily health toolkit.

Level Up is where we explore the gear that actually makes a difference, whether that’s in how you live, work, or unwind. Each edition brings together standout products, whether tied by brand or by theme, that turn the everyday into something a little more exceptional.

Withings Body Comp

For those who believe that knowledge is power, the Withings Body Comp takes smart scales to new heights. It’s not just about weighing yourself so much as having an extensive view of your health. This scale measures everything from body fat percentage to muscle mass and even visceral fat. It’s like having a health guru right below your feet.

The Body Comp goes beyond weight tracking. It offers insights into heart health, including Vascular Age and resting heart rate data. If you enjoy a scientific twist, the electrodermal activity measurement based on foot sweat response introduces an intriguing facet to your health monitoring.

Stylish Withings Body Comp smart scale displaying body water percentage on a digital screen, featuring a sleek glass design.

Designed for the whole family, the scale accommodates up to eight users with independent synchronization. Automatic data syncing to the Withings App via Wi-Fi ensures that tracking your health metrics is a breeze, regardless of whether you’re using iOS or Android.

On the aesthetic front, the Body Comp impresses with its large, tempered glass platform and a 2.8-inch color display, making it a chic addition to any bathroom. With a battery life stretching up to 15 months on just four AAA batteries, it balances high-tech features with low maintenance.

For those eager to enhance their health journey, the Withings+ subscription provides additional insights and app support. Priced at $230, the Withings Body Comp includes free shipping, a 30-day trial, and a 2-year warranty.

Withings ScanWatch 2

The Withings ScanWatch 2 merges traditional watch aesthetics with modern health tracking capabilities. With options in 38mm and 42mm sizes, this smartwatch showcases a stainless steel case paired with sapphire glass for both durability and sophistication. Its grayscale OLED screen offers easy readability, designed to withstand splashes thanks to its water resistance rated at 5ATM.

The Withings ScanWatch 2 features a stylish black face with temperature display and two sub-dials, alongside a backside view showcasing sensors for health monitoring.

The battery life impresses, lasting up to 30 days, allowing users to focus on health rather than frequent recharging. It truly acts as a health companion, featuring ECG for AFib detection, heart rate monitoring, and alerts for abnormal heart rates. The TempTech24/7 Module continually tracks temperature, while users can measure SpO2 levels and monitor respiratory rates.

Those interested in sleep will find its sleep tracking features useful, which assess cycles, duration, and disturbances, leading to a sleep quality score. For fitness enthusiasts, the watch records steps, calories burned, and active minutes, with GPS connectivity to track distance, pace, and elevation. It even incorporates menstrual cycle tracking, catering to women’s unique health needs.

Operating on HealthSense OS 3, it is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, syncing effortlessly with the Withings app for comprehensive health insights and secure data storage. Users benefit from proactive health notifications, workout temperature variations, and a Smart Wake-Up feature, keeping them aligned with their wellness journey.

Retailing around $370, the Withings ScanWatch 2 appeals to those wishing to combine style with health-based functionality.

Withings BPM Vision

The Withings BPM Vision presents a compelling choice in blood pressure monitors, boasting clinical-grade accuracy that will satisfy even the most discerning health enthusiasts. With FDA clearance and validation from a study involving 91 subjects, the reliability of this device is well-established.

A person using the Withings BPM Vision blood pressure monitor on a table, with a plant and a cup of water nearby, indicating a health-focused environment.

The monitor features a generous 2.8″ LCD color screen, offering immediate color-coded feedback according to the American Heart Association’s blood pressure ranges. You won’t need a medical degree to understand it either as just a quick glance will tell you how your heart is doing.

Tech-savvy users will appreciate its effortless syncing via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the Withings app, which works seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices. It plays nice with Apple Health, Google Health Connect, and Google Fit, ensuring your health data is always at your fingertips so feel free to impress your friends during dinner conversations.

Comfort is paramount, and the BPM Vision doesn’t disappoint. The FlexiFit cuff is available in standard and XL sizes, guaranteeing a snug fit for precise readings. Plus, it’s low-maintenance, featuring a rechargeable battery that can last up to a full year on a single charge.

For the health-conscious individual, sharing comprehensive blood pressure reports with healthcare professionals is a breeze. Priced at $180, you can find it on the Withings website.

Google Expands AI Mode in Search with New Tools for Smarter Learning

Scott Webster
-
0
Google Expands AI Mode in Search with New Tools for Smarter Learning

Google is rolling out a fresh batch of updates to its AI Mode in Search, bringing new capabilities aimed at students, educators, and lifelong learners, just in time for the back-to-school season.

The latest features include support for images and PDFs on desktop, real-time video-based help, and a planning tool called Canvas, all designed to make information discovery more interactive and personalized.

Visual Search Now Supports Images and PDFs on Desktop

AI Mode previously allowed mobile users to ask questions about images using the Google app. Now, that feature is coming to desktop browsers, making it easier to interact with visual materials like lecture slides, infographics, or screenshots. Google is also introducing PDF support in the coming weeks, allowing users to upload documents and ask questions that draw context from both the file and the broader web.

A user interface displaying a PDF attachment titled 'Psych...ality.pdf' with a prompt saying 'Summarize these slides for me' and icons for image upload and deep search.

This multimodal capability is designed for deeper exploration. For example, uploading class notes or a syllabus could prompt the AI to generate clarifications or supplementary material. These features are launching everywhere AI Mode is available (US, India, UK), with plans to expand support to additional file types, including those from Google Drive.

Canvas Brings Planning and Organization to the Sidebar

For anyone juggling multiple research sources or project ideas, AI Mode’s new Canvas tool offers a persistent planning space. Users can now create a dynamic side panel where information is saved across sessions. Typing a prompt like “help me study for biology” and selecting “Create Canvas” initiates a live workspace that updates as users refine their goals.

Canvas will soon support uploaded content too, such as class notes, giving users a way to personalize study guides or project plans. It’s initially available on desktop for users enrolled in the AI Mode Labs experiment.

Search Live: Like a Visual Chat with an AI Guide

A smartphone screen displaying a science experiment involving yeast and hydrogen peroxide, with foam and bubbles forming. Text on the screen asks about the science behind the experiment.

Search Live introduces real-time video input to AI Mode by integrating with Google Lens. Available in the U.S. on mobile through the AI Mode Labs program, it lets users interact with the world around them via their phone’s camera. Whether you’re trying to understand a concept, object, or environment, you can ask questions and receive context-aware answers with helpful links.

The tool is designed to feel like having an expert in your pocket who can literally see what you’re pointing at.

Lens in Chrome Adds Contextual Search from Any Page

For desktop users, Chrome is gaining a new “Ask Google about this page” option in the address bar dropdown. When activated, this launches Lens and AI Mode to provide quick overviews of content on the screen, whether it’s a webpage, diagram, or document. Users can then dig deeper by asking follow-up questions or hitting the “Dive deeper” button in the side panel.

This seamless integration of Lens and AI Mode continues to position Search as more than just an old fashioned query box. With each update it’s becoming an interactive tool for navigating dense or unfamiliar content.

More details about the rollout and how to participate in the AI Mode Labs experiment can be found on Google’s official blog.

Govee Introduces Dynamic Outdoor Wall Light with 360° Color Control

Scott Webster
-
0
Govee Introduces Dynamic Outdoor Wall Light with 360° Color Control

Govee is expanding its lineup of smart ambient lighting with a new outdoor wall fixture that delivers lighting effects in every direction—literally. The new Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light, launching today, is the first of its kind to feature four independently controllable lighting zones, giving patios, porches, and backyard hangouts a serious glow-up.

Full-Spectrum Ambiance from Every Angle

Designed to offer an immersive lighting experience, the Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light incorporates both RGBWW and RGBIC technologies. That means the top and bottom beams offer rich white tones or vibrant colors, while the left and right sides can cycle through multicolor gradients with dynamic flair. Between the 64 built-in lighting scenes and 19 DIY modes, users can go from “chill evening cocktail” hour to “backyard disco” in seconds.

Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light mounted on a wall, illuminating the porch area with warm lighting, showcasing a modern design.

And if you’re not in the mood to design a scene yourself, Govee’s AI Lighting Bot can suggest combinations based on mood or environment. Yes, your lights now have opinions.

Bright, Balanced, and Easy on the Eyes

With up to 1200 lumens of brightness, the fixture hits that sweet spot between visibility and comfort. It’s bright enough to accent walls, seating areas, or entrances, but the wall-washing design avoids harsh glare. The adjustable color temperature lets users dial in warm or cool tones depending on the vibe.

More Coverage, More Impact

One fixture can illuminate up to 12 square meters, giving it broader coverage than typical wall lights. The up and down beams deliver expansive vertical lighting, ideal for showing off architectural details or creating a dramatic backdrop along larger surfaces. Whether it’s flanking a front door or lining a long patio wall, it adds both function and style.

Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light showcasing two black fixtures with colorful ambient lighting effects, alongside a packaging box and a smartphone displaying the app control interface.
The Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light mounted on a wall, displaying vibrant color effects from multiple lighting zones; a tropical plant is visible in the foreground and a wooden door is seen nearby.
Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light product image showcasing the fixture beside its packaging and a smartphone app display.

Smart Features and Durable Design

As expected from Govee, the new fixture supports voice control via Google Assistant or Alexa, and plays nicely with Matter for broader smart home integration. Schedules, remote control, scene syncing… they’re all accessible through the Govee Home app.

It’s also built to stay outside year-round, with IP66 waterproofing and UV resistance. Rain, snow, or scorching sun won’t keep it from lighting up your next backyard hang.

Pricing and Availability

The Govee Outdoor UpDown Wall Light goes on sale July 29 for $129.99 (single pack) and $229.99 (two-pack) through govee.com and Amazon.

1...838485...1,314Page 84 of 1,314