2014

Karma Makes WiFi Sharing Simple

Our readers understand the importance of connectivity, because having access to the Internet has become a huge part of our lives; that’s why we pay a fortune for mobile data plans, and then we pay even more to connect additional devices. Karma Wi-Fi takes a different approach that is less expensive and surprisingly social.



Waterfield Designs’ Rough Rider Messenger Bag: First Look

We always love it when Waterfield Designs, one of our favorite bag companies, delivers something new. The Rough Rider Messenger Bag is just that. Made form thick gorgeous leather it is an instant classic. We’ve got a first look at it on camera, and we bet you’ll be as impressed with it as we are.


Transporter Transports Your Files Anywhere You Are

I’m a huge fan of Dropbox and make good use of my 150GB of cloud storage. Still, the fact that I have only 150 GB, have to pay for it, AND my files are on someone else’s server is a bit of a bummer. Connected Data’s Transporter may be the alternative; better still, it just got some great new features.


How do You Solve a Problem Like In-App Purchases?

Apple added a big change to iOS 7.1 when it comes to app purchases. Previously, once you entered your password for an app purchase the system automatically didn’t ask for it again for 15 minutes. To prevent in-app purchases by accident, you can now set it to ask every time. But how else can in-app purchasing be fixed?


Element Case Soft-Tec Wallet for Apple iPhone 5C Review

The Element Case Soft-Tec Wallet for Apple iPhone 5C is a great way to carry and protect your iPhone 5C and ditch the wallet. Simple in its design, the case is as elegant as it is functional. It adds minimal bulk to the phone and lets the color shine through at the top. Plus, it looks great.



Amazon Prime Goes to $99

We knew it was coming but it is now official — the annual fee for Amazon Prime is rising to $99. For me it is a no-brainer, the service is awesome. The benefits like Prime Video are nice, and the $99 still makes Amazon Prime a bargain. How about you? Does the increase make you think twice about Prime?


Element Case ION 5 Hogue Black Ops iPhone 5/5s Case Review

If you are in the market for a new case for your iPhone 5S, and you love the style and protection offered by Element Case, you’ll want to check out the Element Case ION 5 Hogue Black Ops. Under $60, the ION 5 Hogue case is available in two colors, offers excellent protection and sports plenty of Element Case style.


Apple Shortens iPhone Return Period to 14 Days

Effective today, Apple has shortened the amount of time you can take to return an iPhone you’ve purchased from them. Previously you had 30 days to decide whether to keep your phone; now the return limit is 14 days – which coincidently or not seems to line up with the average wait time to purchase a new iPhone model.


911 Versus the Family Cat

A rather unusual 911 call has been making the rounds of the Internet today. Apparently, a family in Oregon had a baby, and their cat was most displeased. The cat went on a reign of terror, scratching the baby and scaring the family so badly they locked themselves in the bedroom and called 911. To catch their angry cat.



2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Sets the Bar Even Higher

I have written about this before, but I believe it bears repeating – model year 2014 is a great one for Jeep Grand Cherokee. So far we have tested the base V-6 model and the top-of-the-line, no holds barred SRT version and loved both. Now we take a look at the all-new 730-mile range EcoDiesel Grand Cherokee.


Wrap Your iPad in Leather with the Twelve South SurfacePad

The other day we mentioned a brand-new product from our friends at TwelveSouth — the TwelveSouth SurfacePad for iPad mini — which is a “luxury leather cover” that is designed to offer minimalist protection and good looks for the small Apple tablet. My review sample came the other day, and I have a hands on video of it in action.


Synology Launches Version 5.0 of their DSM Disk Management Software

When I reviewed the Synology DS213j, I was impressed with not only the physical device, but also Synology’s Disk Management software called DiskStation Manager AKA DSM.  Today, Synology released DSM version 5.0 which includes a revamped user experience, overall performance boosts, optimized multimedia and mobile experiences, and more.  Check out the full list of features at Synology’s website.


UNU AERO Series Wireless Charging Battery Case for iPhone 5S

We’ve previously looked at iPhone 5S battery cases. We’ve also reviewed cordless charging solutions for the iPhone 5S. I do not, however, recall reviewing something like the UNU AERO Wireless Charging Battery Case and Mat for the iPhone 5S. It’s both a battery case and a cordless charging solution for under $100, and it has impressed me … a lot.



iOS 7.1 Update Available

As anticipated Apple just released iOS 7.1 for iPhone and iPad. This update includes several feature enhancements to Siri, iTunes Radio, Calendar as well as the new CarPlay feature which transfers your iOS display to compatible in-car displays. The download is a little over 200 mb in size for those who’ve stayed current on iOS 7. More details on the fixes and features below.


Wireless Traveling Convenience Comes with the XCOM Global Hot Spot

When traveling internationally, you won’t always have the luxury of a secure and speedy WiFi connection at your destination. One of the most reliable ways I’ve found to make sure that I’ll be able to get online with all of my devices — including my laptop — is by traveling with a hot spot rental from XCom Global.


Seagate Backup Plus Fast Portable Drive Lets You Take 4TB On the Go

I love my 15″ MacBook Pro with Retina display. Judie loves her 15″ MacBook Pro with Retina display, too. We both hate the fact that the drive capacity is just 500GB. It is a constant frustration. Seagate’s new 4TB Backup Plus Fast Portable Drive is an amazing way to take 4TB with you; I wish I got this years ago.


Rejoice, Math Nerds; Square One TV Lives on Through YouTube

If you’re a nerdy child of the 80’s, you probably have fond memories of SquareOne TV. There has never been and will never be a better math-themed kids show. Sadly, it’s hard to find these days, but someone has uploaded several full episodes to YouTube. Math man, Mathnet, that creepy probability song … it’s all there!