Gear Bits


Help Me Find the Best Universal Remote, Please

Okay, I’ve had it! We have too many remotes! Apple TV, Direct TV, TV, DVD, Roku, a Vizio sound bar, and I may even be forgetting one! Has anyone tried one of those smart remotes with a screen? I’m considering a Logitech Harmony remote, but I’m wondering if there is something even better out there?


Brew Cutlery Makes Loving Beer Even Easier

I recently built a home bar; between glass wear, jiggers, shakers and openers, there are tons of gadgets I could fill my drawers with, but a recent Kickstarter campaign has introduced an item I have never seen. Brew Cutlery combines stainless steel eating utensils with a bottle opener. A $20 Kickstarter contribution will let you eat, drink and be merry!


Lay Claim to Your Soda or Beer With CanStamp

Want to make your can of Bud stand out during a party? Want to lay claim to your Diet Coke when vacationing with others? If you answered yes, the $8 CanStamp is for you. Featuring statements like “mine”, “in use” and “fuel” it is a fun and kinda practical way to personalize your can. Check it out.


Jimmy Fallon and Will Smith Show the Evolution of Hip-Hop Dancing

Did you catch the bit where Jimmy Fallon and Will Smith were giving examples of the evolution of hip-hop dancing over the years? If not, then you should watch this video; it’s almost guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Obviously they couldn’t fit in every hip-hop move ever, but it’s still a fun trip down memory lane. =)  


Skype Messaging Sync Goes Live

Skype audio seems to blow away voice quality on any similar VOIP solution yet I’ve been a big Skype user. It mostly seems like a relic of the past which is largely used for communication between users in different companies. Skype users have long complained that in the era of multiple devices that Skype is far behind because it doesn’t synchronize alerts between all devices.


BBM 2.0 Rolling Out to iOS and Android

If you’re a BlackBerry Messenger (aka BBM) user on iOS or Android, then the newest update – version 2.0 – is going to bring some welcome enhancements. Beginning today you can participate in BBM voice calling, BBM Channels, location sharing (powered by Glympse), pictures, voice notes, attachments and even DropBox. BBM groups can now be up to 50 people in total size. More info – BBM


Titanfall has Opened Beta Testing Signups for PC and Xbox One

Respawn has just opened up Titanfall Beta testing signups on the PC and Xbox One; apologies to those with an Xbox 360.  Titanfall’s website says that seats in the Beta are limited and if chosen, you’ll be emailed with further information “no later than 11:59 PM PST on Feb 17th.”  Sign up at Titanfall’s website for a chance to play!


All-Ett KeepSafe RFID Original Wallet – Protect Your Identity

Tired of big bulky wallets? Need a wallet that will last for more than 6 months? All-Ett makes ultra thin durable wallets which are crafted from either nylon or leather.  Their newly released KeepSafe RFID wallet claims to protect your RFID enabled cards by creating an effective radio barrier protecting your confidential data inside your All-Ett wallet. 


WaterField Designs Unveils Rough Rider Rugged Leather Messenger Bag

WaterField Designs just introduced their new $335 Rough Rider Leather Messenger Bag. A throwback to the Old West with distinctly modern functionality it’s unique strap system keeps bag contents compressed so the bag looks slim and neat. Clean lines, scratch-free pockets for digital devices and secure front snaps add to the Rough Rider’s appeal. Check it out!



Vladimir Putin Sports Yota Advertising for Russian Mobile Provider

There was controversy back in 2012 about the official sponsors of the Olympic games forcing athletes to not display logos of their sponsor brands. The Sochi Olympic games came with their own controversies, but the branding rules stand. For the athletes anyway, as the Russian President wore a fleece with several brands displayed, including Russian mobile network provider Yota.


Tokyo Flash Kisai X Acetate Is a Timely Gift for Your Loved One

Love of your life love watches? They’ll love the Tokyo Flash Kisai X Acetate. This $139 watch serves up time and date, has a built-in alarm, and a custom designed animation that illuminates the display. Available with blue, red or green LEDs, the watch has stainless steel detail and a smoked mineral crystal lens. Click to see it in action.


Project Capture Enables UFO Reporting Via iPhone

Project Capture is a social network way for UFO enthusiasts to report “something unexplainable in the sky” or an alien “crash site” via iPhone or iPad app. Get alerts when UFO’s are spotted by your crazy neighbor in your neighborhood. Submit your own UFO reports. Be advised this is only for legitimate material and false content will be flagged and removed.


Get Karma and Connect On the Go

The pocket-sized Karma hotspot is a great way to stay connected… and it’s social. Its pay-as-you-go data generates an open Wi-Fi signal to which anyone around you can connect. When they do, you’ll both receive 100MB of free data. Want to win one? Learn more about Karma here, then Tweet or Facebook why your loved one #NeedsKarma.


What is the Oldest Piece of Tech That You Still Use?

You’d think we’d use nothing old with the pace that new technology moves, which got me thinking: What is the oldest piece of tech that you regularly use? Mine is my Azden PCS-6000 2m mobile amateur radio, which I use at home; it was released in 1989. There’s no reason to replace as it still works well! How about you?  


The Bluelace Project Brings Great Laces Made in America

The goal was simple — use Kickstarter to fund a project to “give American Manufacturing its own yellow ribbon… a wearable way to show your support for the war they’re fighting daily”. The Bluelace Project raised six times more than its goal and shipped the best laces ever — in blue no less —  to those of us who backed it.




This Bit by Louis CK is Hilarious; the Psychology Behind It Is Fascinating (NSFW)

A post over on TechCrunch includes an embedded bit by Louis CK that is hilarious. It also contains colorful language — you’ve been warned. The article goes on to unpack the psychological maneuvers the comedian employs to get his laughs and make his point. The video is a good laugh, and the post is a fascinating read. On the surface the bit appears to be Louis CK’s take on “On the one hand… On the other hand”. (Or, as he puts it, “Of course… But maybe.”) So, for example, on the one hand “Children who have nut allergies need to…