I recently picked up the new Apple 14” MacBook Pro. I’m thrilled to see the return of key ports but still, find them a bit lacking. That means I often still need a multiport adapter. Now there is a new Satechi USB-4 Multiport Adapter with 8K HDMI and a new Satechi Pro Hub Max; both offer portable port expansion that’s “just right.”
CES 2022 may not have been the CES we were all hoping for, but it still brought much news. Often lost in the “big” announcements is the work of accessory companies who make our devices even better. Scosche had lots of new products to share, including two new Scosche MagicMount solutions for car use and power solutions for every situation.
Smart home technology is everywhere these days, and Moen is making it clear that they are the leaders in smart water technology. The Moen Smart Faucet with Motion Control has new touchless technology to control the water’s temperature and flow with simple hand motions or voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The Moen Smart Water Network is a whole-home ecosystem of products that, when working together, provide complete control over the water in one’s home.
The democratization of home security doesn’t get enough attention. Sure, you can call a company, go to the hassle and expense of waiting for them to install the system only to be then saddled with a substantial monthly monitoring fee. Or, you can turn to one of our favorite smart home security brands and let the Arlo Security System secure your home for less.
WaterField is starting 2022 by introducing their newest backpack, the WaterField Tuck Backpack, a streamlined, updated version of a European military rucksack. With its unique look, flexible side panels that expand and contract depending on that day’s carry, it’s a great new WaterField offering. At $299, it’s not inexpensive, but as we’ve always said, WaterField bags are an investment that will last for years.
Anker has quickly become one of our favorite mobile device accessory companies; several of us use their chargers and other products all of the time. Anker’s announcements for CES include everything from new wall adapters to portable power stations to video conferencing bars and more. Here’s a look at a few that we have to look forward to in the new year.
Harman and its subsidiary brands consistently deliver some of the best audio products on the market. Whether it be headphones, wireless speakers, home audio, or portable audio, there’s something for everyone. Some of the latest audio products we have to look forward to this year from Harman brands include the new Mark Levinson No. 5909 wireless headphones and new headphones, speakers, and a gaming microphone from JBL.
Samsung has announced its new gaming and productivity monitor lineup for 2022. Their new monitor portfolio is focused on bringing out the best experiences for users while they are working, gaming, or watching content at home. Each has different bells and whistles, and each takes monitor technology to a new level.
Raina and I have several different streaming boxes connected to our living room TV; the one we use most often is our Roku box. The reason is simple; Roku has created a robust streaming ecosystem that is simple to use and just keeps getting better. It’s why they remain the number one Smart TV OS, and now we have news of a new Sharp Roku TV!
Cleer makes some fabulous over-the-ear headphones. Until now, however, they had a bit of an identity problem. Their wired Next headphones cost $699.99, while the next expensive offering, the wireless Flow 2, is $199.99. With the introduction of the $249.99 Cleer ALPHA wireless over-the-ear headphones, they have begun to fill in that large, untapped pricepoint in the middle.
Nomad’s Base Station wireless chargers are among the best and most elegant wireless chargers available. I love their sleek design and the ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously. The Nomad Base Station Hub Edition with Magnetic Alignment is all that, but it is easier to use than ever.
The new Olivers Gold Coast Shirt Jacket has just been announced, just a few months after one of my personal favorites, the Olivers Stadium Shirt Jacket, came to market. This new offering is made from a Merino Wool and recycled Polyester blend; thermoregulation and anti-microbial properties are just the beginning of what will make this outwear a winner.
Here are some statistics that should concern anyone in a relationship. 51% of couples claim their partner is distracted by their phone. 40% of people think their partner spends too much screen time. Nearly half of Americans spend over 5 hours on their phones daily. Kahlua took note of this, and they came up with a fun way to raise awareness: the Kahlua Stir It Up Challenge.
When I was younger, I considered Rockport shoes to be “clunky shoes for older folk.” After reviewing several styles of Rockport’s current shoe line, I have found that their shoes are neither clunky nor meant for older folks; they’re now pretty much all I wear anymore. The waterproof Rockport Men’s Total Motion Sport Boot is the latest style I’ve tried.
Some months ago, I reviewed the LIVSN Flex Canvas Shorts. Thanks to their comfortable cut, subtle but practical features, and tough-as-nails durability, they quickly became my favorite shorts for summer 2021. I wore them most days, and they still look brand new. So when I was sent the LIVSN Flex Canvas Pants for review, I was excited.
Master & Dynamic makes some of the best headphones on the market. Their MW65 over-the-ear headphones are stylish, well-built, have excellent ANC, and sound fantastic. The MW08 Sport true wireless earphones also look and sound amazing. They, too, have superior ANC and are comfortable for extended listening sessions. The newly announced Master & Dynamic MG20 Wireless Gaming Headphones look to be equally impressive.
I’ve become a fan of Olivers Apparel over the past few years. Their clothing has excellent style and is designed for active people; while pricey, the quality you get makes their items more of an investment than a purchase. During the Olivers Apparel Mystery Box Event, you can get a selection of their clothing and save 50% or more.
The end of 2021 may be drawing close, but that doesn’t mean our friends at Nomad are done rolling out the new gear. In fact, Nomad’s new 30W GaN AC Adapter and sports cables are here just in time to be welcome stocking stuffers. Here’s a quick look at both.
Cameras and microphones have become part of daily life for many of us during the pandemic. While most external video cameras have built-in microphones, they’re usually only slightly better than using the microphone integrated into a laptop. Unfortunately, the best external microphones are often rather complicated to use. However, the AKG Ara microphone is an excellent dual pattern USB mic, and it’s easy to use.
Have you noticed that Black Friday seems to start a bit earlier each year? Well, this year, the sales are starting even earlier. Better still, the 2021 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Savings are pretty impressive. Here are some of the products we love that are currently available at steep, sometimes incredibly steep, savings.
Some time ago, I reviewed Twelve South’s PowerPic. A traditional wooden frame that doubles as a Qi wireless charger, it’s rather inspired. Now the company has released their new Twelve South PowerPic mod Wireless Charger. It is an elegant lucite frame for a 4″ by 6″ picture that hides a secret; it is also a 10W Qi charger.