Bloomberg dropped the report on July 28, 2026, and MacRumors confirmed the details the same day: Apple is finally building a real smart home hub, one that pairs a HomePod-style speaker with a 7-inch display and puts Siri’s new AI backbone in charge of it. A refreshed HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K box are reportedly launching alongside it, possibly as soon as October.

Great news for anyone who’s been waiting since the HomePod’s original 2018 debut for Apple to take the smart home category seriously. Less great news for your power strips.

Here’s the thing nobody’s talking about yet. A hub that lives in every room, always listening, always processing, is a different animal from a single speaker parked in the kitchen. MacRumors reports that Apple wants both tabletop and wall-mounted versions, which means most households are looking at three, four, maybe five of these things running continuously. That’s not a minor addition to your setup. That’s a rethink of every outlet in the house.

Most people plan their charging setup the way they plan a junk drawer: reactively. A cable here, a brick there, nothing coordinated. That works fine when you’re charging a phone overnight. It stops working when you’ve got always-on AI hardware drawing power in the living room, the bedroom, and the kitchen simultaneously, plus your existing phones, tablets, and laptops all still competing for the same three outlets behind the couch.

People already budget mental energy around downtime the way they budget money. You plan ahead for a big purchase. You plan ahead for a weekend trip. Someone driving through the middle of the country for a work trip might check https://www.newgamenetwork.com/casinos/oklahoma/ before they leave, not because they’re committing to anything, just because it’s smart to know what’s around before you’re already there. Same logic applies to your house. You don’t want to discover your power situation is inadequate after the hub is mounted on the wall.

What Siri AI Actually Changes About Power Draw

A standard HomePod mini idles at roughly 1-2 watts and spikes briefly during audio playback. That’s negligible. Nobody’s outlet strip has ever struggled with a HomePod mini.

An AI-driven hub is different math entirely. AppleInsider’s coverage of the same report notes Apple has been working through chip upgrades specifically to support on-device Siri AI processing across these new products. On-device inference isn’t free. It’s not going to draw laptop-charger levels of power, but continuous listening plus periodic AI processing pushes these units well past what a dumb speaker ever needed.

Multiply that by the number of rooms you’re planning to put one in. Three hubs at a slightly elevated draw, running 24/7, is a meaningfully different load than one HomePod mini that mostly idles. Add the refreshed Apple TV box, which reportedly gets its own hardware bump, and you’ve got four or five always-on devices instead of one.

None of this trips a breaker. Let’s be clear about that. This isn’t a fire hazard conversation. It’s a convenience and cable-management conversation, and those get ignored until the day you’re staring at an outlet with three things already plugged in and nowhere to put the fourth.

The Cabling Problem Is Worse Than the Wattage Problem

Wattage is the boring part. Cabling is where people actually get burned.

A wall-mounted hub, if that’s the form factor Apple ships, needs power run to wherever you’re mounting it. Kitchens and hallways rarely have outlets at eye level or above the counter, which is exactly where a display-equipped hub makes the most sense. You’re either running an extension cord (ugly, and a tripping hazard if it crosses a walkway) or you’re calling an electrician to add an outlet where one doesn’t exist.

9to5Mac’s reporting suggests Apple is close to finished on all three devices, which means this isn’t a hypothetical two years out. If the October window holds, people are going to be unboxing these before the holidays and immediately hitting the same wall: where does this actually go, and how does it get power there.

Compare this to how home networking gear evolved. Ten years ago, a single router in the living room was fine. Mesh systems changed that, and suddenly people needed outlets in three or four rooms they’d never planned for. We’re about to repeat that exact cycle with AI hubs, except mesh nodes don’t have microphones and 7-inch screens people expect to glance at from across the room, which means placement is far less flexible.

What To Actually Do About It

Skip the extension cord instinct. It’s the path of least resistance and also the thing that looks terrible and degrades fastest under continuous load.

A few things worth doing before the hub actually ships:

• Walk your house and identify the two or three rooms where a hub genuinely makes sense (kitchen, living room, primary bedroom), not every room just because you can.
• Check what’s already plugged into those outlets. If you’re already running a lamp, a phone charger, and a humidifier off one duplex outlet, you’re out of room before the hub even arrives.
• Consider a slim in-wall outlet extender or a properly rated multi-outlet unit with surge protection, not a bargain bin power strip.
• If you’re doing any renovation work this year regardless, this is the moment to ask an electrician about adding a dedicated low-draw outlet at counter height.

Gizmodo’s take on the announcement, after years of false starts on Apple’s home hub ambitions, is that this time feels different because the AI angle gives Apple an actual reason to ship hardware it’s been sitting on. I’d agree with that read. The company doesn’t need a smart display for the sake of a smart display. It needs a physical surface for Siri’s new AI to live on, and that changes the calculus from “nice to have” to “core product line.”

If you’re the kind of household that already has a HomePod mini in three rooms, you’re closer to ready than most. If you’ve got one speaker total and you’re thinking about expanding once the new hub drops, now’s the window to get ahead of the outlet problem instead of solving it in a panic in November.

The Real Lesson From the HomePod mini Refresh

Apple rarely ships hardware refreshes without a reason, and the timing here (alongside a new Apple TV box) suggests this is a genuine platform push, not a minor spec bump. For anyone who bought into the smart home ecosystem early and got burned by half-finished HomeKit support, this is the moment to actually plan a setup instead of bolting devices on as they arrive.

The households that get the most out of this rollout won’t be the ones who buy every device the day it ships. They’ll be the ones who spent twenty minutes this month figuring out where power actually needs to go, and made sure the outlets could handle it before the boxes showed up.

For more on how gaming and entertainment tech is evolving on Apple hardware, see our piece on browser-based gaming becoming more popular on Apple devices, and our breakdown of the rise of online gaming as a new era in entertainment.

No one will argue that macOS has an excellent reputation. Apple’s operating system is known for its tight restrictions and reliability. However, add-ons are in a gray area, potentially vulnerable to attack. Therefore, all Apple users should pay attention to browser extension security.

Add-ons run inside Safari, Firefox, or Chrome. They often access information you type, click, or copy. Mac devices are certainly well-protected. However, this means little if a new malicious program is surreptitiously reading the contents of your clipboard.

Our guide will show you what can actually impact browser extension security. You’ll learn which tools to trust and how to avoid mistakes in the future.

Why Add-ons Can Be a Hidden Security Threat

These are small programs. They get installed with a single click and rarely get a second look afterward. That’s also the problem. A calendar widget or coupon finder can request permission to read and change data on every website you visit. So, most users just hit accept without reading the fine print.

On Mac, Apple applies a strict Safari extension review process before those reach the App Store. However, Chrome and Firefox add-ons, by contrast, are far more open. Anyone can publish one, and the Chrome Web Store has had repeated waves of malicious listings slip through. Chrome extension permissions are easy to check, but few users actually check them. Firefox add-on privacy policies vary a lot from developer to developer. So it pays to read them rather than assume.

Good browser extension security starts with understanding these differences between Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.

Check Permissions Before You Install Something Dangerous

A few habits go a long way here.

• Open Chrome extension permissions page before installing the program.
• Find the latest reviews that describe strange behaviors, pop-ups, or redirects.
• Ask whether the tool really needs access to all websites.
• Learn all the information about the developer, like name and history.
• Delete programs you don’t need.

Safari keeps things simpler than Chrome, through System Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Extensions. Also, match the permission to the function. A screenshot tool doesn’t need to read your browsing history.

Remember, this kind of check is the foundation of solid browser extension security on any Mac.

Browser Extension Security: What Add-ons Are Worth Using

You don’t have to panic or forget about programs you really need. Remember, not every addition to your Google Chrome or Mozilla is a threat. Many of them are useful and improve privacy and workflow. Also, a few categories stand out for Mac users who care about their setup.

Firstly, discover password manager extensions. There are cool tools like 1Password and Bitwarden. They integrate seamlessly with Safari and Chrome. Such add-ons reduce password reuse. Passwords are still a huge risk factor for account takeovers.

Secondly, tracking blocker efficacy varies more than most people assume. Some programs block obvious ad trackers but miss fingerprint scripts entirely. However, uBlock Origin has a solid reputation. It remains relatively lightweight compared to the privacy software packages included with existing systems. 

Browser sandboxing basics also matter more than people realize. Modern browsers isolate each tab and add-on process to some degree. However, that sandbox isn’t bulletproof. Programs with broad permissions can still cross that isolation. Therefore, it is better to use well-tested, actively supported tools that significantly reduce this risk.

Thirdly, for anyone auditing a longer list, browser extension audit tools can help. Built-in browser reports can also flag tools with unusually broad access. So you should develop the habit of conducting such an audit every few months. 

It’s a small habit, but it strengthens browser extension security that is good in general.

Some Common Risks You May Not Think About

Even though malicious extension detection becomes better, it still needs improvement. Stores typically pull bad products after users report problems, not before. So, there’s a window, sometimes weeks long, where a compromised product stays live.

The most common risks include:

1. Products that get sold to new owners who quietly inject ad trackers or malware.
2. Fake update prompts that request new, broader permissions.
3. Clipboard hijacks, especially in tools tied to crypto wallets.
4. Data collection disguised as usage analytics. 
5. Programs bundled with free software installers that nobody reads carefully.

Self-hosted extension alternatives gain traction for users who want more control. If you create or host your own script through something like Tampermonkey, this avoids third-party servers entirely. However, it does require more technical comfort than the average user has.

Please, weigh these risks as part of your browser extension security.

Proxy Browser Extension: Strengthen Network Security Outside the Browser

Usually, browser extension security covers what happens on your device. However, network-level protection matters just as much. This is where a proxy browser extension can add a useful layer. It masks your real IP address and makes cross-site tracking harder for advertisers.

Many users pair add-ons with a proxy for network protection to ensure they have more consistent coverage. A dedicated IP proxy service works alongside your existing add-ons rather than replacing them. It handles IP address protection at the network level. That complements whatever privacy tools you’re already running inside Mozilla or Google Chrome itself.

Combine both layers and give your browser extension security setup real depth.

Cybersecurity Tips for Home Users

A short checklist is often more useful than a long lecture. These cybersecurity tips for home users apply whether you’re on a MacBook, an iMac, or switching between both.

• Update macOS and your browser regularly, not just when prompted twice.
• Review installed add-ons quarterly and remove anything unused.
• Use a password manager instead of saved passwords alone.
• Avoid installing tools from unofficial sources or direct download links.
• Enable two factor authentication anywhere it’s offered.

None of this requires deep technical knowledge. It just requires a bit of routine maintenance. So, think of it like checking your car’s oil or clearing out old files.

Conclusions

Mac buyers often think their platform takes care of security on its own. However, this is the most common mistake Apple device owners make.

Yes, the system does handle most tasks. However, add-ons still pose a risk. To avoid being ensnared by unscrupulous developers, it’s worth doing a little research before you install anything. Also, regularly clean out apps and make smart privacy choices online.

The main thing is not to rely on anyone else. Security should be considered part of everyday life.

Classic 90’s morning cartoon nostalgia with frustrating Controls

Weirdly, time seems to become more valuable as we age. Especially when you consider that each second, minute, hour, week, month, and year has the same duration and cadence.  As a youth, it seemed that this currency was limitless.  I could play what I wanted, when I wanted, and do nearly anything I wanted.  Now, as a married father of four kids, each with their own sports, work/study, hobbies, interests, and a full-time job, I have to be more selective about my activities.  Since my free time is worth more than when I was a child, I have to ration it and divert my energy between only a few activities.   

I have enjoyed playing video games since approximately 1988 when my parents bought a Nintendo NES.  With time I progressed through the NES, Super Nintendo, N64, GameCube, Wii, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, the GameBoy family (Game Boy, Color, Advance, DS, 3DS/XL), Sega Genesis, Sega CD, GameGear, PlayStation 2/3, PSP, XBOX 360, XBOX One and XBOX Series X.  I played a variety of game types to include platformers, first person shooters, RPG, JRPG, racing games, quest/puzzle style games, etc.  In my later years of high school and into college, my father and I played the online role-playing game (MMORPG) Dark Age of Camelot.  Now, I am left with a Nintendo Switch 2, an Xbox Series X, and one to two hours per week of playtime.  One hour is used to play Diablo 4 with my Dad, and one hour is used for Switch 2 time.  

I read about the Nickelodeon Splat Pack, a $14.99 Nintendo Switch eShop game, and immediately fell in love with the nostalgia of morning cartoons and the art style of Rocko’s Modern Life, Real Monsters, and the gameshow Nickelodeon GUTS.  I had the privilege of reviewing the title thanks to the publisher.  With a quick trip to the eShop and a download time of ~7 minutes (1032-1039 am), the game found its way onto my E-storage.  I fired up the game and noticed a virtual card insertion animation, photosensitivity warning, and then the fun, slimy, Nickelodeon image.  Many adults will remember the orange/yellow slime splat, purple lettering, and crayon-like purple feel of Nickelodeon.  I think that feeling is part of why Splatoon felt so fun to play and why Slime remains one of my kids’ favorite pastimes.  We had Gak; now they have every iteration of texture and smell you can imagine in slime form.

The game compilation had several modes/games within the main collection: Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day, Nickelodeon Guts, and AAAHH!!! Real Monsters (Sega/NES versions).  The main Nickelodeon splat screen will transition into the second screen with Real Monsters 16-bit Mega at the top left, Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day along the left, Museum, and Credits. Along the right side of the screen, you will find Real Monsters 16-bit Super, GUTS, and a music player. Along the bottom, you have change selection with the L drumstick, Y for languages (French, English, Italian, German, Spanish), B for back, and A to confirm.  

I remembered the kids’ TV game shows like Double Dare, GUTS, Legends of the Hidden Temple, and wanted to start with the GUTS game.  Unlike the cartoony feel of the other games, the GUTS game lacked color and pizazz and felt more pixelated and outdated than retro.  The game’s opening sequence provided several black-and-white photographs of the GUTS game show. You can adjust the screen size between full, 4:3 ratio, and stretch.  You can change the filter from CRT to off and adjust the borders: 1. Off, which is all black. 2. Colored Backgrounds: A yellow, orange-shaped background, purple, yellow, green background, and a green slime background.  You can open up the game manual and walk through the different games and try to navigate/memorize the manual for each game subtype. 

Instead of using the A button to start the game, the GUTS game required you to press the “+” button to start a game. You can choose between single player vs. two player, change between beginner and advanced, and turn the music on and off. You can choose GUTS Show or single event. Select your desired color (blue, red, and purple), and then pick your character. There are eight options to select from, and each one has a different weight, height, and favorite sport.  I am not certain that these differences mattered much in the actual game. From Lacrosse V Attack to track to elastic ball slam dunk, and then to the Aggro Crag, the game was very difficult to play.  The controls were not easy to remember; each mode had its own sequence of button combinations and timing patterns.  Timing the basketball slam, trying to get back onto the ledge, rope grabbing, ball throwing/aiming all created more frustration than enjoyment.  At times, it felt like the athletic character would fall or jump before I even pushed a button.  Again, quite frustrating.  Even though it was one of the first games I played, I did not return to the game and have since not played it again.  

Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day did a great job at capturing the artistic, visual feel of the 16-bit era.  In this game, you will assume the role of the Wallaby Rocko, and you must guide your dog Spunky through various maps, hazards, and transitions.  The gameplay felt clunky, and the Spunky Mechanic was incredibly frustrating.  I have played many games that required specific timing (Aladdin carpet level, Turbo Tunnel level on Battletoads, Solomon’s Key, Mike Tyson, numerous platform jumps). Still, the escort mechanic, combined with the mapped controls and inability to adjust the controls, made the game quite frustrating.  Despite the frustration, I think it was the best of the collection.  The platformer feel combined with some puzzle-like activities required you to move things/open up pathways for the dog.  If you did not open them in time, the dog would turn 180 degrees and go backward.  Thus, you had to open/close levels/shells/gates to keep the dog from trying to die.  Curiosity, in this case, killed the dog!.  

The AAAAH!!! Real Monsters games had a fun character swap mechanic.  You will need to change your leader by pressing the L/R buttons based on the situation, as Ickis, Oblina, and Krumm each possess their own special ability.  Control your characters with the D pad or Thumbstick, press down to squat, press up to ascend a ladder, Y to throw a monster, B to jump, A to scare, and X for triple monster moves with the other two.  There are a total of three options depending on your leader.  Ickis, the pink-eared monster, has a frightening fling long jump. Krumm has an EERE Eye ejector to search for hidden rooms. Finally, Oblina the taller monster, can reach higher places with a high jump. All three will stack up. You can throw monsters, and will need to use their individual powers to search for trash.  Navigate through schools, sewers, streets, look for character upgrades, and try to get to the end.  Several of the stages reminded me of Metroid, where you could not access certain areas.  At times, I wanted to move the jump button to A, and I would have liked to move the monster-throw button to a trigger button.  Alas, the game did not allow for button mapping or modification.  The button combinations for the Switch controller felt weird and made several of the levels feel more difficult than they needed to be.  The rewind function was a great update for the game.  However, it did not provide enough of a victory to pull the review up from ~6/10.  

Despite the difficult-to-navigate/learn button combinations, the Splat Pack did provide a few modern quality-of-life upgrades.  No, you cannot button map.  If that were possible, this review would be at least an 7.5/10.  However, like with many modern ports, you gain the ability to save progress, and you can rewind/reverse time to try again.  Let me be clear, these games will not walk you through and give you a trophy at the end.  Games from the 80’s and 90’s did not do this; Elden Ring does not do this, and games like Call of Duty won’t do this either.  You will have to practice the controls, remember the sequence, and die/restart a lot.  The 90’s versions were frustrating!  Guess what, the current ports are frustrating!  Some may find this alluring and a challenge worthy of a quest, while others may want to throw the controller and move on to other games.  With valuable time as a resource, we must choose what games to play.  

I liked the Museum and Music Player feature within the main menu.  One of my favorite memories about gaming was the box art, included instruction manual, and sometimes map (thank you Zelda Overworld Map).  The included Museum and Music Player features will let you listen to soundtracks, while the museum feature will show you the box art and scans of the manual.  I would love for other Switch games to include the original box art and scans.  

Summary:

You will need to determine if you want to scratch your nostalgia itch and reignite your love/hate feeling for retro games. Think Battletoads Turbo Tunnel bike level, Ninja Turtles water level,  Ghosts N’ Goblins, Ninja Gaiden, Eco the Dolphin, and so many more without a Game Genie.  I have grown fond of Limited Run games but feel that this title would benefit from some additional love.  Despite the nostalgia of the Nickelodeon era and memories of Skip-bo, Gak, Pizza Hut family time, and morning cartoons, the constellation of games did not hold up well to time.  Despite the minor upgrades to the graphics and color schemes, they still held their original appeal.  The games felt dusted and cleaned up, with some very superficial upgrades in the ability to rewind, pause, and save (single-game save). The 16-bit retro sound and music library provided the best upgrade/“nostalgia” feel. I liked the original tracks, and the fun cartoony backgrounds.  As far as replayability, I would give the game pack a mid-range of ~6/10.  With so many other games available, I would rather have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, or pick up a used copy of Disney Classic Games from Game X-Change to remember how mad I got at The Lion King and Aladdin.  

I would have liked a bit more polish and better button mapping/upgrades, so I could enjoy and complete the games.  The price is not unfair for what you get but I missed a few other titles like Ren and Stimpy Games, or possibly Rugrats.  Will I play them again? Probably.  Will I play them frequently? Likely not. 

Learn more about the Nintendo Switch Nickelodeon Splat Pack.

With a four-leg design, four powerful motors, a 660-pound weight capacity, and outstanding customization options, the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max delivers one of the most stable and capable standing desk experiences available.

FlexiSpot is a company that has been focused on ergonomic furniture since 2016. While they’re best known for their standing desks, they also make office chairs, desk converters, beds, recliners, and other products designed to create more comfortable workspaces. Their goal is to help people stay healthier and more productive by making it easy to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. Over the years, FlexiSpot has grown into a well-known brand with products sold in more than 80 countries, making it one of the more recognizable names in the ergonomic furniture market.

For this review, I have the E7 Plus Max Standing Desk with the 71″ x 30″ Rubberwood Espresso desktop, and it definitely makes a strong first impression. The 1.57-inch thick solid rubberwood top gives the desk a premium feel, while the dark Espresso finish adds a clean, modern look that fits well in just about any office or gaming setup. If Espresso isn’t your style, FlexiSpot also offers the Rubberwood top in Natural, Walnut, and Black finishes. Beyond Rubberwood, you can also choose from Laminate, Bamboo, Black Walnut Veneer, Black Walnut Wood, White Oak (Made in the EU), Solid Wood (Made in the USA), and even specialty options like Laminate Tabletops with Drawers, Ergo Series, and Gaming Series desktops.

The E7 Plus Max is designed for larger workstations and features a heavy-duty four-leg steel frame with a powerful four-motor lifting system and three-stage lifting columns. Together, they provide exceptional stability throughout the entire height range while also supporting heavier setups. The desk adjusts from 25.8 inches to 51.6 inches, making it suitable for a wide variety of sitting and standing positions. The frame is also adjustable in width from 43.3 to 74.8 inches and supports desktops ranging from 47.2 to 94.5 inches long and 24 to 35.4 inches wide, making it easy to build anything from a simple home office to a large workstation with multiple displays.

FlexiSpot also includes programmable height presets and anti-collision technology for added convenience and safety. The frame supports up to 660 pounds, making it one of the strongest standing desks currently available. Whether you’re running multiple monitors, studio speakers, a desktop PC, or other heavy equipment, this desk is built to handle it all while remaining impressively stable, even at its maximum height. One of the things I like is how customizable the desk is. Between the different desktop materials, finishes, and size options, it’s easy to configure a setup that fits your workspace and personal style.

Unboxing and Setup

The E7 Plus Max ships in three separate boxes. One contains the desktop itself, while the other two contain the frame, legs, motors, and other hardware. One thing I didn’t really appreciate until it arrived was just how substantial this desk is. The frame alone ships in two boxes weighing over 70 pounds each, so before you even add the desktop, you’re already dealing with a lot of weight. Because I chose the largest 71″ x 30″ desktop, everything was pretty heavy and a bit awkward to move around by myself. I definitely recommend having at least one other person help carry everything where it needs to go. Fortunately, my mom was able to help me move everything inside and get it into my office.

From start to finish, assembly took us around two hours. Overall, the instructions were mostly clear and easy to follow, although there were a few areas that could definitely be improved. One thing to note is that FlexiSpot doesn’t include every tool you’ll need. You’ll need to provide your own Phillips screwdriver, and the directions say to a drill on hand as well. While most of the holes are pre-drilled, many of the screws require a good amount of force to install.

For my setup, I used a Milwaukee hex bit drill with both Phillips and Allen bit attachments, and it made the installation process much faster. There are quite a few screws throughout the assembly, and several need to be installed, removed, and reinstalled as you progress through the instructions. Doing everything by hand would have taken considerably longer.

There were also a couple of spots in the instructions that caused some confusion. In Step 3, there’s a triangle icon next to the hardware that we initially thought meant installing additional screws. It actually refers to screws that were already pre-installed on the frame. It took us a while to figure that out, and I think that section could be explained much more clearly.

The other issue I ran into was during Step 7 when installing the control box. My desktop didn’t have the pre-drilled holes shown in the instructions, so I wasn’t comfortable drilling directly into the underside of the desktop myself, even though the top is fairly thick. Instead, I used some heavy-duty double-sided mounting tape that I already had. Once the magnetic cover was installed over everything, it felt very secure, and I haven’t had any concerns about it moving around.

Speaking of the magnetic cover, that was another area where the instructions could use some improvement. It took us a few minutes to figure out the correct orientation because the guide doesn’t clearly show how it should be positioned. We eventually figured it out, but I think adding a couple of arrows or orientation stickers would make installation much easier for first-time users.

Once everything was assembled, keep in mind that the desk becomes significantly heavier. Moving it into its final position is almost certainly going to be a two-person job, especially if you choose one of the larger solid wood desktops like I did.

Overall Use

After getting everything assembled and dialed in, here’s a look at my workspace before and after installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max. The larger desktop, improved stability, and clean design completely transformed my office. It gave me more room for both work and gaming while also making the entire setup feel much more organized. Going from my old desk to the E7 Plus Max has been one of the biggest upgrades I’ve made to my workspace.

Before installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max (left) and my completed setup after the upgrade (right).

I’ve now been using the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max every night for both work and gaming, and it’s quickly become the centerpiece of my office. My setup consists of two 32-inch curved monitors mounted on monitor arms, my MacBook Air, desktop speakers, a REDMAGIC ASTRA, and all of my other everyday accessories. Even with all of that weight on the desk, it never feels unstable. Whether I’m typing, gaming, adjusting my monitors, or docking my MacBook Air to get some work done, there is very little movement, which is impressive considering how much equipment I have sitting on it.

One of my favorite features is the programmable height presets. I have one preset saved for sitting and another for standing, so switching between the two only takes a single button press. The four motors are smooth, surprisingly quiet, and move the desk at a comfortable speed without feeling jerky. It’s one of those features that you don’t think much about until you start using it every day, and now I couldn’t imagine going back to manually adjusting a desk.

Another thing I really like is the amount of clearance underneath the desk. When it’s in my standing preset, my entire office chair slides completely underneath the desk without hitting the frame or getting in the way. It keeps my office looking much cleaner and gives me plenty of room to move around when I’m standing.

Cable management was another project I wanted to tackle during my setup. FlexiSpot does offer its own cable management accessories, but I didn’t have any for this review. Instead, I used a cable management basket from Amazon along with several zip ties to route everything neatly underneath the desk. With two monitors, monitor arms, speakers, my MacBook Air dock, and several other devices, there are a lot of cables to deal with. Taking the time to organize them made a huge difference and kept everything from looking like a mess of spaghetti wires hanging below the desk. I still think FlexiSpot’s cable management accessories would make a great addition for anyone buying this desk.

If I had one complaint, it would be the USB port built into the control panel. While it’s convenient to have a charging port there, it’s still a USB-A port. In 2026, I would have preferred to see FlexiSpot upgrade it to USB-C since that’s what most modern phones, tablets, and accessories use today. It’s a small complaint and certainly not a dealbreaker, but it would make the desk feel a little more future-proof.

Overall, I’ve been extremely happy with the E7 Plus Max. Between the exceptional stability, smooth lifting system, generous desktop space, and highly customizable design, it’s been a fantastic upgrade to my workspace. Whether I’m writing reviews for MacSources on my MacBook Air, working from my Mac Studio, or spending the evening playing Call of Duty: Mobile, this desk has handled everything I’ve thrown at it without any issues. It has easily become one of my favorite additions to my office.

Conclusion

After spending time with the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max, it’s easy to see why it has become one of the company’s flagship standing desks. The combination of outstanding stability, premium desktop options, a massive weight capacity, and smooth four-motor lifting system makes it feel like a desk that’s built to last for years. Once assembled, it inspires confidence whether you’re using it for work, gaming, or a combination of both.

While I do think the instructions could be improved in a few areas, and I would have liked to see the USB-A charging port replaced with a more modern USB-C port, neither issue takes away from the overall experience. Assembly is something you’ll only do once, and after that, you’re left with an incredibly solid desk that performs exactly as you’d expect.

If you’re looking for a standing desk that can easily support multiple monitors, heavier equipment, and a large desktop while remaining rock solid at any height, the E7 Plus Max is an excellent choice. It isn’t the cheapest standing desk on the market, but the build quality, customization options, and everyday usability help justify the premium price. After using it every day for both work and gaming, I can confidently say it’s one of the best standing desks I’ve had the opportunity to use.

For more information, visit Flexispot.com

From powering devices and staying organized to keeping screens spotless and enjoying downtime, these accessories help students get the most out of the new school year.

As students prepare for another school year, the right tech accessories can make a meaningful difference both inside and outside the classroom. Whether heading to a college dorm, commuting to campus, or returning to high school, these practical gadgets are designed to help students stay connected, organized, and productive throughout the day.

Brighten Every Study Session

Scosche GloBright® MultiColor Glowing LED Cable

MSRP: $17.99 | Available August 1 at Scosche.com

Charging doesn’t have to be boring. The GloBright® MultiColor Glowing LED Cable delivers up to 60W USB-C fast charging while adding vibrant, color-changing LED lighting to desks, dorm rooms, and study spaces. Built for everyday durability, it combines reliable charging performance with a fun visual touch that stands out during late-night homework sessions.

Stay Charged Between Classes

Scosche GoBat™ 10K 4-in-1 Wall Charger, Power Bank + Dual USB-C® Cables

MSRP: $44.99 | Available August 1 at Scosche.com

Designed for students who prefer carrying fewer accessories, the GoBat™ 10K combines a 10,000mAh power bank, wall charger, wireless charger, and built-in dual USB-C cables into one compact device. Its travel-ready design fits easily into backpacks while providing dependable charging throughout busy school days.

Scosche GoBat™ 10K 3-in-1 Wall Charger, Power Bank & USB-C® Cable

MSRP: $64.99

The GoBat™ 10K 3-in-1 replaces multiple charging accessories with a single portable solution. Featuring a built-in USB-C cable, foldable wall plug, and multiple charging ports, it delivers up to 20W while on the go and up to 65W when plugged into the wall. It’s an ideal companion for charging laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other classroom essentials.

Never Lose the Essentials

Scosche FoundIT™ Keychain Item Locator Tag

MSRP: $24.99

Backpacks, keys, gym bags, and even luggage become much easier to keep track of with the FoundIT™ Keychain Item Locator. Compatible with Apple’s Find My network, it helps students quickly locate misplaced belongings and provides alerts if important items are accidentally left behind.

Keep Devices Looking Like New

WHOOSH! Screen Shine

MSRP: $12.99 to $19.99

Between fingerprints, coffee shop study sessions, and everyday use, screens collect grime fast. WHOOSH! Screen Shine safely removes fingerprints, dust, and smudges using a non-toxic, alcohol-free, and ammonia-free formula that’s safe for phones, tablets, laptops, monitors, and other displays. The included premium microfiber cloth leaves screens clean without streaks.

WHOOSH! Sport Shine

MSRP: $16.99 to $19.99

Student-athletes can keep their gear performing at its best with WHOOSH! Sport Shine. Designed for helmets, sports goggles, cycling glasses, swim goggles, and protective eyewear, the portable cleaning kit removes dirt and smudges while helping reduce fogging for improved visibility during practices and competitions.

Take a Break Between Classes

ELO Vagabond Mobile Gaming Controller

MSRP: $99.99

Every student needs a little downtime. The ELO Vagabond Mobile Gaming Controller transforms a smartphone into a portable gaming system with full-size controller comfort. Its compact, backpack-friendly design makes it easy to enjoy cloud gaming, mobile titles, or remote play between classes, while traveling, or during study breaks.

About the Collection

From keeping devices charged throughout long school days to helping students stay organized, maintain clean tech, and unwind after class, these accessories are designed to support modern campus life. Whether shopping for incoming freshmen, high school students, or anyone heading back to the classroom, these products offer practical upgrades that can make daily routines more convenient all semester long.

Razer’s first Hall Effect gaming keyboard combines adjustable magnetic switches, Rapid Trigger, and 8000 Hz HyperPolling with premium build quality for a fast and highly customizable gaming experience.

Over the past few years, I’ve spent a lot of time experimenting with different keyboards to find the one that works best for me when I game. I started with a classic mechanical keyboard before eventually migrating to the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Tenkeyless, which features Razer’s optical switches.

For a long time, I thought optical switches represented the pinnacle of gaming keyboard technology. They offered fast response times, smooth keystrokes, and a level of precision that traditional mechanical switches simply couldn’t match. Then Hall Effect keyboards began gaining traction, promising even greater customization through adjustable actuation, Rapid Trigger, and magnetic switch technology capable of tracking the exact position of every key press.

That shift has led many gamers to wonder whether Hall Effect keyboards are truly worth the hype or if they’re simply the latest trend in an increasingly competitive market. That’s what makes Razer’s entry into the Hall Effect space with the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless Keyboard so interesting.

The Huntsman has become one of Razer’s most recognizable gaming keyboard families, earning a strong following among gamers thanks to its combination of speed, premium design, and innovative switch technology. With the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic, Razer is taking that foundation and adapting it for the next generation of gaming keyboards by introducing Hall Effect Magnetic Switches, advanced customization options, and features designed to compete with today’s top-performing gaming keyboards.

About the Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless

The Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless is a wired gaming keyboard built around Razer’s new Hall Effect Magnetic Switches. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that register a keypress when metal contacts touch, Hall Effect switches use a magnet and sensor to continuously monitor key travel. This allows the keyboard to know exactly how far every key has been pressed at any given moment.

That precision enables several advanced features. Adjustable actuation lets users choose exactly when a key should register, from an incredibly shallow 0.1 mm all the way to 4.0 mm. Rapid Trigger resets a key as soon as it begins moving upward, making repeated inputs significantly faster than traditional fixed reset points. Razer also includes Snap Tap, Dynamic Keystroke, Snap Flex, and Dual-Keypress Priority, all designed to improve responsiveness and simplify complex inputs.

The Tenkeyless design removes the numeric keypad while keeping the function row and navigation keys intact, creating a smaller footprint that gives gamers more room for mouse movement without sacrificing everyday usability. The keyboard also features a 5052 aluminum alloy top case, textured doubleshot PBT keycaps, per-key Razer Chroma RGB lighting, pre-lubed stabilizers, and up to 8000 Hz HyperPolling for reduced input latency.

Designed for competitive gamers and enthusiasts who want maximum control over their keyboard experience, the Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless combines Hall Effect technology with the performance-focused features that have defined the Huntsman family.

Features & Specs

• Razer Hall Effect Magnetic Switches
  • Uses magnetic sensors to detect key position in real time.
  • Enables adjustable actuation, Rapid Trigger, and advanced input customization.
  • Rated for up to 100 million keystrokes.
• Adjustable Actuation
  • Customize actuation points from 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm.
  • Allows users to prioritize speed or reduce accidental presses.
• Rapid Trigger Mode
  • Resets keys immediately when movement begins upward.
  • Designed for faster repeated inputs and improved movement control.
• Razer Snap Tap
  • Prioritizes the latest directional input for faster counter-strafing.
  • Supports up to four customizable key pairs.
• Advanced Input Customization
  • Dynamic Keystroke allows multiple actions to be assigned to a single key.
  • Snap Flex enables multiple actions from a single input.
  • Dual-Keypress Priority helps maintain consistent movement inputs.
• True 8000 Hz HyperPolling
  • Provides faster communication between the keyboard and PC.
  • Rated at approximately 0.60 ms switch-to-USB latency.
• On-Demand Calibration
  • Allows Hall Effect switches to be recalibrated through Razer Synapse.
  • Helps maintain consistent actuation performance over time.
• Onboard Profiles
  • Stores up to six profiles directly on the keyboard.

Design & Build

• Tenkeyless (TKL) Layout
  • Smaller footprint with function row and navigation keys retained.
• 5052 Aluminum Alloy Top Case
  • Provides durability and a premium design.
• Textured Doubleshot PBT Keycaps
  • Durable keycaps with RGB shine-through legends.
• Pre-Lubed Stabilizers
  • Improves consistency and reduces unwanted key movement.
• Multi-Layered Foam Sound Dampening
  • Helps improve acoustics and typing feel.
• Per-Key Razer Chroma RGB Lighting
  • Fully customizable through Razer Synapse.
• Detachable USB-C Cable
  • Allows easier transport and cable replacement.

Specifications

• Switch Type: Razer Hall Effect Magnetic Switches
• Layout: Tenkeyless
• Connectivity: Wired USB-C
• Polling Rate: Up to 8000 Hz
• Actuation Range: 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm
• Actuation Force: 40 g
• Total Key Travel: 4.0 mm
• Switch Lifespan: 100 million keystrokes
• Key Rollover: N-key rollover
• Lighting: Per-key Razer Chroma RGB
• Keycaps: Textured Doubleshot PBT
• Top Case: 5052 Aluminum Alloy
• Profiles: Six onboard profiles

Pricing & Availability

The list price for the Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless is $139.99 and it’s available at razer.com, Razerstores and select retailers.

User Experience

Build Quality, Design, and Long-Term Comfort

The first thing I noticed about the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless was how solid it feels. The aluminum top plate gives the keyboard a sturdy, premium feel, and I never noticed any flex while using it. It has the kind of build quality I’d expect from a keyboard in this price range.

I’ve always been a fan of tenkeyless keyboards because they offer a great balance between functionality and desk space, and that’s exactly what Razer has accomplished here. I don’t really miss having a dedicated number pad, but I do appreciate that the navigation cluster remains in its standard location. It makes the keyboard feel familiar whether I’m gaming, writing, or just browsing the web, while still giving me more room to move my mouse.

I also found the layout comfortable during longer gaming sessions. Even though it’s more compact than a full-size keyboard, it never felt cramped. Since the only thing that’s missing is the number pad, I still have access to all the keys I use on a daily basis.

The textured doubleshot PBT keycaps add to that premium feel. Compared to standard ABS keycaps, they have a firmer, slightly harder texture. It was a little different than what I was used to at first, but I quickly grew to like the feel. The larger keys, including the spacebar and shift keys, also feel very stable with very little movement or rattling.

I also like that Razer uses a detachable USB-C cable. It’s a small detail, but it gives me the flexibility to swap cables if I ever want to customize my setup or simply replace the included one.

Overall, I think the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic easily feels like a premium $139.99 keyboard. Between the aluminum construction, quality keycaps, thoughtful layout, and excellent fit and finish, it feels well built for both gaming and everyday use.

Typing Experience and Daily Use

While the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless is clearly built with gamers in mind, I found it to be just as enjoyable for everyday typing. Coming from the low-profile Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Tenkeyless, there was definitely a small adjustment period. The taller keycaps and deeper key travel feel very different, but the keys are comfortably spaced and every keystroke feels solid and consistent. After a day or two, I felt completely at home using it for longer typing sessions.

Compared to both traditional mechanical switches and Razer’s optical switches, the Hall Effect Magnetic Switches have a unique feel. The best way I can describe them is that they have a little more bounce to them. They still feel smooth thanks to their linear design, but the overall typing experience is noticeably different from the keyboards I’ve used in the past. Even after several hours of writing, I never noticed my hands getting tired or uncomfortable.

The keycaps and stabilizers also deserve some credit. The textured doubleshot PBT keycaps feel durable and provide a solid typing surface, while the larger stabilized keys remain smooth and consistent without any noticeable wobble.

I also really like the way this keyboard sounds. It’s quieter than many traditional mechanical keyboards, but it still produces a satisfying clicky sound with each keypress. I don’t think it would be overly distracting in most office environments, although that obviously depends on how hard someone types. One thing I did notice is a slight echo when typing quickly. The sound seems to bounce off the aluminum frame and creates a subtle reverberation that actually adds a bit of personality to the typing experience rather than becoming distracting.

Overall, I think the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic feels every bit as premium during everyday use as it does while gaming. It strikes a nice balance between performance and comfort, making it a keyboard I was happy to use throughout the day.

To put some numbers behind my experience, I also ran a typing test using MonkeyType.com. I averaged 85 words per minute with 99% accuracy and an 81% consistency score. Typing tests are always influenced by familiarity and individual typing habits, but I was happy with those results, especially considering I was transitioning from a low-profile keyboard to a traditional-height design.

Razer Synapse and Customization

One of my favorite aspects of the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless is just how easy it is to customize through Razer Synapse. I do want to point out that I have had limited time with testing the keyboard with the latest firmware since it was just released this morning. The software is clean, well organized, and easy to navigate. Once I selected the keyboard in Synapse, I had quick access to everything from actuation settings to RGB lighting without having to dig through complicated menus.

Adjusting the actuation point couldn’t be much easier. I simply selected the key I wanted to modify and used a slider to choose the actuation distance. It made experimenting with different settings quick and painless until I found what worked best for me.

For the most part, I found myself using one of two configurations. When I was working or writing, I usually left the keyboard at its default settings. When it was time to game, I switched over to the built-in FPS Rapid Trigger profile, which felt noticeably more responsive. I also really appreciated being able to switch between onboard profiles directly from the keyboard without needing to launch Synapse every time.

Razer includes several advanced gaming features like Dynamic Keystroke, Snap Flex, and Dual-Keypress Priority. I’m still experimenting with some of them, but they definitely have potential. The feature that stood out the most to me was Snap Tap. It made directional movement feel smoother and more responsive, especially in games where quick movement changes are important.

Even though Razer Synapse is currently only available for Windows, the keyboard itself works perfectly well without the software. I connected it to my MacBook Pro and had no issues using it for gaming or everyday tasks. The only downside is that macOS users currently miss out on Synapse’s advanced customization features.

RGB customization is just as straightforward as everything else in Synapse. Changing colors, effects, and brightness only takes a few clicks, making it easy to match the keyboard to the rest of my setup.

Conclusion

After spending time with the Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless, I came away impressed by just how refined Razer’s first Hall Effect keyboard feels. Rather than simply following the latest trend, Razer has taken what made the Huntsman lineup successful and paired it with magnetic switch technology that offers a meaningful increase in customization and responsiveness.

If you’ve been considering making the jump to a Hall Effect keyboard, the Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Tenkeyless makes a compelling case. It combines excellent build quality, extensive customization, and top-tier gaming performance into a package that feels built to last.

For more information, visit razer.com

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W combines high-speed GaN charging, a built-in retractable USB-C cable, smart monitoring, and multi-device support into a premium travel-friendly charger.

In the past few years, I’ve really enjoyed using high-powered, advanced power adapters. Many of them come with a display built-in that show you how much power output is occuring while you charge and I really like to monitor that activity. UGREEN has been one of my favorite charging device companies and now they are releasing the Nexode Pro 160W Charger…with a Retractable Cable! That is an accessory that makes the premium charger even more convenient.

About the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is a premium GaN charger designed for users who regularly carry multiple high-powered devices. Combining a compact form factor with up to 160W of total output, it can charge everything from laptops and tablets to smartphones and accessories from a single power adapter.

One of its standout features is the integrated retractable USB-C cable, which extends up to 27.6 inches and eliminates the need to carry an extra charging cable for many situations. The charger also includes three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, allowing up to four devices to be charged simultaneously.

Unlike traditional chargers, the Nexode Pro features a built-in smart display that provides real-time information including power output, charging protocols, voltage, current, and temperature. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity through the UgreenConnect app, enabling remote power management, safety controls, and over-the-air firmware updates.

Powered by UGREEN’s GaNInfinity™ technology and Thermal Guard™ safety system, the Nexode Pro is designed to deliver efficient, high-speed charging while continuously monitoring temperatures and intelligently distributing power between connected devices.

Features & Specs

• Up to 160W total power output
• Built-in 27.6-inch (70 cm) retractable USB-C cable with eight adjustable lengths
• Up to 140W output from the integrated USB-C cable
• Up to 140W output from the USB-C1 port
• Charge up to four devices simultaneously
• 3 × USB-C ports and 1 × USB-A port
• Built-in smart display with real-time charging information
• Displays total output, per-port wattage, voltage, current, charging protocol, temperature, and charger mode
• GaNInfinity™ technology for efficient, compact charging
• Thermal Guard™ temperature monitoring with checks up to 200 times per second
• Intelligent SmartCharge Power Distribution for optimized power allocation
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity through the UgreenConnect app
• Remote power management and safety shutdown controls
• Over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates
• Designed to charge laptops, tablets, smartphones, handheld gaming devices, and accessories from a single charger

Pricing & Availability

The list price of the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger is $149.99 from ugreen.com and Amazon.

User Experience

The first thing I noticed when I took the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger out of the box was just how premium it felt. UGREEN has consistently impressed me with the quality of its charging accessories, and this charger is no exception. Even though it can deliver up to 160W of power and charge multiple devices at once, it wasn’t as large or heavy as I expected. It’s a little heavier than a standard laptop charging brick, but that’s an easy tradeoff when it can replace several chargers in my bag. I wouldn’t hesitate to toss it into my laptop bag for everyday use or when I’m traveling.

The built-in retractable USB-C cable is easily one of my favorite features. It sounds like a small addition, but after using it for a while, I found myself appreciating it more and more. The cable extends smoothly, locks securely into the different length settings, and retracts evenly every time. It also feels sturdy enough that I don’t worry about it wearing out with normal use. While it’s obviously not meant to reach across a room, it’s more than long enough for charging devices on my desk, nightstand, or in a hotel room. Best of all, I never had to ask myself if I remembered to pack a USB-C cable because one is always built into the charger.

For my testing, I used the Nexode Pro with an iPhone 16 Pro, MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Microsoft Surface Pro. Across all of them, the charger delivered the performance I expected. To give a more measurable example, I charged my iPhone 16 Pro from 19% to 66% in just 30 minutes, a gain of 47% battery life, averaging about 1.57% per minute. That lines up well with what I’d expect from a high-performance USB-C charger and makes it a great option when you need to top off your battery before heading out.

One of the reasons I enjoy testing chargers like this is the built-in display. I love being able to see exactly what’s happening while my devices are charging. Instead of simply plugging something in and hoping it’s charging at full speed, I can quickly glance at the display to see the current wattage being delivered. The screen is bright, easy to read, and provides useful information without feeling cluttered. For me, this isn’t just a novelty feature. It’s something I actually use every time I charge my devices.

I also connected the charger to the UgreenConnect app to see what it offered. Setup was fairly straightforward, although the touch button used during pairing was a little temperamental and occasionally took a couple of tries. Once connected, though, the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection remained reliable. I mainly used the app for monitoring charging information and tracking data. The charger works perfectly well without the app, so it’s definitely not a requirement, but if you’re someone who enjoys keeping an eye on charging statistics or wants access to additional controls, it’s a nice bonus.

Finally, I was impressed with how cool and quiet the charger remained throughout my testing. Even while charging higher-powered devices, it never became excessively warm, and I never heard any fan or electrical noise. That’s exactly what I want from a charger I’m going to leave plugged in on my desk or pack in my travel bag. It simply did its job without drawing attention to itself, and that’s a good thing.

Conclusion

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is one of the most versatile charging solutions I have tested. It combines the convenience of a multi-port GaN charger with the added benefit of an integrated retractable USB-C cable, eliminating one more accessory that can be forgotten when traveling. For professionals, frequent travelers, and anyone who regularly carries multiple devices, the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is an excellent investment. It reduces clutter, delivers reliable charging performance, and provides a level of convenience that traditional chargers cannot match.

For more information, visit UGREEN.com

UGREEN, a leading global consumer electronics brand, today unveiled the latest additions to its flagship Nexode Pro Series, featuring the Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable and Nexode Pro 300W Desktop Charger.

Representing the next generation of display-equipped charging lineup, these products continue the series’ commitment to true-rated performance and flagship-quality power. By making power management more intuitive, these new releases directly reflect UGREEN’s commitment to smarter, user-centric technology.

Flagship Charging Meets Reliable Power

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is the world’s first 160W smart display charger with pull-out power. It delivers up to 160W of total output, providing enough power to charge two laptops simultaneously. Users can also quickly power up other high-demand devices, including tablets and smartphones, while on the go.

Both the USB-C1 port and the built-in retractable cable, which extends up to 27.6 inches (70 cm) with eight adjustable lengths, support up to 140W power output to ensure high-speed charging for compatible high-performance laptops. By eliminating the need to carry separate cords, it offers full charging versatility on the move. Featuring three USB-C outputs and one USB-A port, the charger can fuel up to four devices all together, making it an excellent option for commuting and business travel.

Powered by GaNInfinity™ technology, the charger delivers efficient power conversion inside a highly compact design. For safety, the SmartCharge Power Distribution and Thermal Guard™ technology work together to intelligently optimize power delivery and monitor internal temperatures up to 200 times per second.

Meanwhile, the built-in screen provides detailed real-time diagnostic information, displaying total output, port wattages, fast-charging protocols, current, voltage, temperature, and charger mode at a single glance. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, users can manage remote power adjustments and safety shutdowns through the UgreenConnect app, while over-the-air (OTA) updates provide long-term compatibility enhancements.

Centralized Workspace Power Meets Real-Time Visibility

As the first desktop charger from UGREEN to feature a built-in display, the UGREEN Nexode Pro 300W Desktop Charger serves as a heavy-duty power station that transforms any workspace into a single-source charging hub for all devices. Featuring a massive 8-port configuration, it delivers up to 300W of total output to easily handle multiple high-powered units like laptops, tablets, gaming gear, and other electronic accessories all at once. Three independent USB-C ports (USB-C1, USB-C2, and USB-C3) support up to 140W output each, allowing multiple high-performance devices at peak speed at the same time. The station also includes an integrated DC output port that supplies up to 240W for specialized desktop equipment.

The integrated smart display focuses heavily on workstation visibility, keeping users informed of total output, active single-port wattages, and connection status. Through the UgreenConnect app, users can customize display themes and clock styles based on personal preferences with a simple tap on a phone. The app also permits users to switch among five specialized power distribution profiles, while OTA online updates keep the desktop hub ready for next-generation hardware.

Designed for stationary setups, the station features an elegant, soft-touch finish using material comparable to automotive interior coatings. To withstand continuous multi-device workloads, GaNInfinity™ architecture and Thermal Guard™ safety protections actively monitor and regulate operation temperatures within a safe range to ensure reliable charging for both the hub and connected devices.

Together, the Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable and Nexode Pro 300W Desktop Charger form a compact yet powerful charging duo designed for users who rely on multiple devices and demand intelligent, convenient and efficient power management from the desktop to on-the-go scenarios.

Price and Availability

This Nexode Pro Series is now available in the United States on Amazon and the UGREEN Official Store.

Amazon:

• UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable $149.99
• UGREEN Nexode Pro 300W Desktop Charger $199.99

UGREEN Official Store:

• UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable $149.99
• UGREEN Nexode Pro 300W Desktop Charger $199.99

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About UGREEN

UGREEN is a leading global consumer technology company. Since its founding in 2012, UGREEN has upheld its core values of being user-centric, sincere, and dedicated. With a global presence under the renowned “UGREEN” brand, its business covers over 180 countries and regions, serving more than 300 million users.

UGREEN is committed to empowering users worldwide to unlock their full potential, delivering on the brand slogan of “More For You”.

The Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro combines a stunning 2.5K 120Hz display, effortless setup, and a versatile portable design to deliver an excellent dual-screen experience for professionals and travelers.

No matter how powerful a laptop is, there’s one limitation that always seems to get in the way of productivity: screen space. At my desk, that’s never been much of an issue since I have an external monitor available. But when I’m traveling for work, attending press events, or simply working away from my office, I’m limited to the display built into my MacBook Pro.

That’s what initially caught my attention about the Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro. I wanted a portable monitor that would give me the extra screen real estate I rely on every day without requiring a bulky setup. After using it both at my desk and while working remotely, I wanted to see if it could become a permanent part of my travel kit.

About the Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro

The Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro is a premium 16-inch portable monitor designed to give laptop users a more productive and flexible dual-screen experience wherever they work. Its innovative foldable design allows the display to mount above a laptop screen, creating a stacked workspace that maximizes screen real estate while maintaining a compact footprint. The monitor can also be used in presentation mode for sharing content or as a traditional freestanding portable display.

Featuring a sharp 16-inch 2.5K (2560 × 1600) display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, 350 nits of brightness, and 100% sRGB color coverage, the Duex Float 2 Pro delivers crisp visuals for everything from everyday productivity to creative projects. Connectivity is simple with USB-C and mini-HDMI ports, while support for 65W pass-through charging helps keep compatible laptops powered during use.

Compatible with macOS, Windows, Linux, Android devices with DisplayPort Alt Mode, and other supported devices, the Duex Float 2 Pro is built for professionals, students, creators, and remote workers who want the convenience of a portable dual-monitor setup without sacrificing performance or versatility.

Features

• 16-inch 2.5K display
• Perfect for 15-inch to 16-inch laptops
• 33% lighter and 20% thinner than previous model
• Stacked design
• Built-in dual speakers
• Two USB-C ports with 65W pass-through charging
• One mini HDMI port connectivity
• Newly designed built-in kickstand
• Three different viewing modes

Pricing & Availability

The Duex Float 2 Pro has a list price of $389.00 on mobilepixels.us and is available on Amazon for $249.99.

Setup and Installation

Getting the Duex Float 2 Pro up and running is very simple. After taking it out of the box, all I had to do was connect it to my laptop using the included USB-C cable. There was no software to install, no firmware updates to worry about, and no complicated configuration process. Within moments, the display was recognized and ready to use. While the cable that was provided worked just fine (with my MacBook Pro, iPad and laptop running Linux), I did wish that it was longer. I ended up grabbing a StarTech USB4 cable that was capable of 8K60Hz, 40Gbps, 240W. It was a bit longer and allowed me a little more freedom in positioning both the Float and the host device.

For the majority of my testing, I connected the Duex Float 2 Pro to my MacBook Pro, which was already connected to an LG UltraWide monitor through a Thunderbolt dock. Even with two external displays attached, macOS recognized everything correctly, and I experienced no compatibility or performance issues.

One of the defining features of the Duex Float 2 Pro is its optional magnetic mounting system, which allows the display to float above your laptop’s screen. While I appreciate having that option, I wasn’t sure about attaching the adhesive-backed magnets to my primary MacBook Pro, I was concerned that as someone who switches between machines frequently that it would be harder to get used to using it on one with magnets and the other without, so I completed the majority of my testing using the integrated kickstand instead.

This approach gave me an excellent idea of how it performs for users who want the added screen space without permanently attaching anything to their laptop. To evaluate the floating design, I did install the magnetic mounting plates on a secondary MacBook Pro that I use exclusively for testing. Installation was straightforward, and once attached, the monitor felt secure while mounted.

Display and Performance

The 16-inch 2.5K display is one of the standout features of the Duex Float 2 Pro. Compared to a standard 1080p portable monitor, text appears noticeably sharper, and images have greater detail and clarity. Whether I was writing articles, browsing the web, or editing photos, the higher resolution made a meaningful difference in day-to-day use.

The 120Hz refresh rate is another welcome improvement. While not everyone will immediately notice the difference, I certainly did. Scrolling through web pages feels exceptionally smooth, windows move fluidly across the screen, and the overall desktop experience feels more responsive than a traditional 60Hz display. I can say this as someone who plays mobile shooters at 144Hz daily and really notices the difference when dropping down to 60Hz. While a higher refresh rate isn’t essential for a productivity monitor, it makes everyday interactions feel more fluid and contributes to a noticeably more polished user experience.

Brightness was more than adequate for indoor use, including working near windows with natural light. One feature I especially appreciated was that I could adjust the display’s brightness directly through Lunar on macOS instead of navigating the monitor’s on-screen display menu. It made brightness adjustments quick and convenient while allowing me to stay focused on my work.

Productivity and Daily Workflow

Using the Duex Float 2 Pro as a freestanding monitor quickly became part of my normal workflow. One thing I’ve always liked about stacked monitor layouts is that they create a more focused workspace than placing displays side by side. I found myself naturally dedicating the Duex Float 2 Pro to applications that I constantly reference throughout the day, such as Messages, Slack, email, or browser windows containing research. Keeping those applications visible allowed me to focus on my primary task without repeatedly switching windows.

During testing, I frequently left the Messages app or Slack open on the Duex Float 2 Pro while working on my LG UltraWide display. Having conversations visible at all times meant I could keep up with notifications without interrupting my workflow or constantly switching windows.

When working away from my desk with only my MacBook Pro, the additional screen real estate proved even more valuable. Whether I was researching, writing articles, organizing files, editing photos, or referencing notes while composing content, having a dedicated second display made multitasking significantly more efficient and reduced the need to constantly jump between applications.

The monitor also remained stable throughout daily use. There is a moderate amount of movement when it’s standing on its integrated kickstand, particularly if the desk is bumped or the monitor is adjusted, but it never felt unstable or gave me any concern that it might tip over. Overall, it performed exceptionally well for writing, web browsing, spreadsheets, photo editing, and video conferencing.

Portability and Overall Usability

Despite offering a generous 16-inch display, the Duex Float 2 Pro is easy to carry alongside a laptop. It slides neatly into my backpack with my MacBook Pro and doesn’t consume an excessive amount of space. It does add some weight to my everyday carry, but the weight is distributed well enough that I never found it uncomfortable during travel. Those using an ultra-slim laptop sleeve may find it to be a tighter fit, but with a standard backpack or laptop bag, portability shouldn’t be an issue.

The overall build quality is equally impressive. The hinge and integrated kickstand feel solid and well-made, providing confidence that they’ll withstand regular travel and daily use. Throughout my testing, the stand held its position securely and supported the display without feeling flimsy.

After spending some time with the Duex Float 2 Pro, it’s easy to see it becoming a permanent part of my setup. It integrates seamlessly into my desk at home, but its greatest strength is how easily it transitions to remote work and travel. Whether I’m covering an event, working from a hotel, or simply spending the day away from my office, having a lightweight second display that can be set up in minutes makes a noticeable difference in both comfort and productivity.

Conclusion

The Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro delivers an impressive portable dual-screen experience that’s equally at home on a desk or in a travel bag. During my testing, the Duex Float 2 Pro quickly became an essential part of my workflow, whether I was writing articles, editing photos, or working remotely. If you’re looking for a high-quality portable monitor that can significantly expand your workspace without sacrificing portability, the Duex Float 2 Pro is an easy recommendation.

For more information, visit mobilepixels.us

Students can save on MagSafe phone accessories, laptop stands, iPad cases, Apple Watch bands, and more to create a smarter, more comfortable workspace anywhere.

As students prepare for a new school year, MOFT is helping them upgrade their everyday tech with a back-to-school sale offering up to 40% off a wide selection of innovative accessories. Designed with portability, versatility, and style in mind, MOFT’s lineup makes it easier to stay productive whether you’re attending lectures, studying in the library, working from a dorm room, or grabbing coffee between classes.

Known for its minimalist designs and practical functionality, MOFT creates accessories that add convenience without unnecessary bulk. With multi-angle support, lightweight construction, durable materials, and fresh color options, the company’s products are built to help students work comfortably while expressing their personal style.

MagSafe Accessories for iPhone

Leading the lineup is the MOFT Tripod Wallet with Find My, a compact accessory that combines a phone stand, wallet, and built-in Apple Find My support. It allows users to position their phone at multiple viewing angles for online classes, note-taking, video calls, content creation, or streaming, while securely carrying essentials like a student ID and payment card.

Additional MagSafe accessories on sale include:

• Snap Tripod Wallet
• Tripod Stand & Wallet
• Snap-on Phone Stand & Wallet with Find My
• Snap-on Phone Stand & Wallet

Each accessory delivers adjustable viewing angles, everyday convenience, and an ultra-slim profile that complements MagSafe-compatible iPhones.

Students can also pair these accessories with the Snap Case MOVAS, a protective MagSafe case available in a variety of modern colors. The case provides reliable drop protection while maintaining a clean, minimalist appearance.

Portable Productivity for Laptops

MOFT’s laptop accessories are designed to transform virtually any location into a productive workspace.

The Laptop Carry Sleeve provides everyday protection while remaining slim enough for backpacks and messenger bags. When paired with the Invisible Laptop Stand, users gain an ergonomic typing angle that helps improve comfort during long study sessions.

For additional flexibility, the Sit-Stand Desk unfolds in seconds from a portable laptop stand into a standing workstation, encouraging better posture throughout the day while remaining compact enough to carry between classes.

Smarter iPad Workflows

The Dynamic Folio Case helps students get more from their iPad by raising the display closer to eye level and offering more than 20 viewing angles. Whether taking notes, sketching, watching lectures, or participating in video calls, the flexible design adapts to nearly any workflow while providing everyday protection.

The Dynamic Folio is also available as a standalone folio for users who prefer to use their existing iPad case.

Personalize Your Apple Watch

For students who rely on their Apple Watch to manage schedules, fitness goals, and notifications throughout the day, the Snap Duo Watch Band offers both style and convenience.

Its reversible dual-color design provides four distinct looks in a single band, while bi-directional connectors allow colors to be swapped almost instantly. Built-in magnets make fastening the band quick and secure, making it ideal for busy days on campus.

Back-to-School Savings

With discounts of up to 40% off, MOFT’s back-to-school promotion offers students an opportunity to enhance their favorite devices with accessories that prioritize comfort, portability, and everyday functionality.

From MagSafe phone stands and wallets to ergonomic laptop accessories, versatile iPad folios, and stylish Apple Watch bands, MOFT’s latest sale helps students stay organized, productive, and ready for the school year ahead.

SwitchBot, a leading provider of AI-enabled embodied home robotics systems, today announced the launch of SwitchBot Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro in North America, a new smart air circulator fan that combines cordless portability, powerful airflow, intelligent connectivity, and everyday convenience in one compact design. Designed for modern homes, it delivers refreshing air wherever it is needed while integrating into today’s smart home ecosystems.

Cordless Freedom with Airflow Anywhere

Unlike traditional fans that are confined to power outlets, Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro is designed to bring refreshing airflow wherever it is needed. Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery, it can easily move between bedrooms, home offices, kitchens, patios, balconies, and even outdoor camping trips without being limited by outlet locations.

Supporting battery, AC, and USB-C power options, the fan delivers up to 70 hours of cordless operation on a single charge*. For extended outdoor use or emergency situations, it can also be powered by a portable power bank, providing continuous airflow wherever extra comfort is needed.

Smarter Control with Matter over Wi-Fi

Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro is the world’s first battery-powered air circulator fan to support Matter over Wi-Fi, allowing users to connect directly to major smart home platforms without requiring an additional hub. Compatible with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Assistant, Home Assistant, Homey, and more, it fits seamlessly into existing smart home ecosystems.

Using the SwitchBot App or voice assistants, users can remotely turn the fan on or off, adjust wind speed with precise 1–100% control, switch between multiple airflow modes, create schedules, and automate operation together with other SwitchBot devices. Whether cooling a room before arriving home or creating personalized routines, Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro makes everyday comfort smarter and more effortless.

Powerful Air Circulation for a Fresher Home

Rather than simply blowing air toward users, Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro is designed to circulate and refresh the entire living space. Powered by a high-performance DC brushless motor, it delivers up to 6.5m/s wind speed, 33.5m (110ft) air delivery distance, and 811m³/h airflow volume*. Turbo Mode quickly accelerates indoor air circulation, while automatic 90° horizontal and 90° vertical oscillation helps distribute airflow evenly throughout the room.

To further improve indoor comfort, the fan features a removable pre-filter that captures visible dust, pet hair, and other larger particles before they enter the fan, helping maintain stronger airflow while reducing maintenance. An integrated fragrance box also allows users to add their favorite essential oils, gently dispersing pleasant scents throughout bedrooms, living rooms, pet areas, or other everyday spaces as air circulates.

Designed for Quiet, Year-Round Comfort

Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro is built to deliver comfortable airflow throughout every season. During summer, it helps circulate cool air from air conditioners more efficiently for faster cooling. In spring and autumn, it improves indoor ventilation by keeping air moving throughout the home. During winter, it can also work alongside humidifiers to distribute warm, humidified air more evenly, creating a more comfortable indoor environment year-round.

For quieter everyday use, SwitchBot SilenTech™ technology reduces operating noise to as low as 21dB in Sleep Mode*, making it ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, home offices, and pet spaces. An upgraded ambient light bar with improved brightness provides gentle illumination at night, making late-night movement around the home more comfortable.

Designed with everyday maintenance in mind, the fan also features a fully detachable structure. The front cover, rear cover, fan blades, and pre-filter can all be easily removed for cleaning, helping keep the fan performing at its best while maintaining fresher airflow over time.

* Battery life, airflow performance, and operating noise are based on SwitchBot laboratory testing under controlled conditions. Actual performance may vary depending on usage and environmental conditions.

Pricing and Availability

SwitchBot Battery Circulator Fan 2 Pro is available for purchase through SwitchBot’s official website, and availability through Amazon stores will be coming soon, with an MSRP of USD 119.99 / CAD 149.99.

Online entertainment has become part of everyday life. Whether you’re streaming live events, purchasing digital content, or enjoying interactive gaming experiences, you expect every part of the experience, including payments, to be quick, secure, and hassle-free.

While fast transactions remain important, you’re probably placing more value on something else as well: reliable customer support. If you have a question about a payment, need to verify your account, or want help resolving a transaction issue, getting timely assistance can make a big difference. 

That’s why responsive support is becoming an increasingly important factor when choosing digital payment services.

As online entertainment continues to evolve, payment providers are introducing stronger security features, easier account management tools, and expanded support resources that help you complete transactions with greater confidence.

Why Customer Support Matters More Than Ever

You probably don’t think much about your payment provider until you need help. A delayed transaction, an account verification request, or uncertainty about payment limits can quickly interrupt what should be an enjoyable online experience. When that happens, you want clear answers, not long wait times or confusing help pages.

Many payment providers now offer online knowledge centers, self-service tools, and improved customer support that make it easier to resolve common issues. 

Whether you need to check the status of a payment, update your account information, or understand how a transaction works, these resources can often provide answers quickly without requiring you to contact customer service. 

For example, you can access Skrill’s online support platform for guidance on account management, payment services, transaction inquiries, and other common questions.

As more of your everyday activities rely on digital payments, dependable support is no longer just a nice bonus. It’s becoming an essential part of the overall experience, helping you feel more confident whenever you make online transactions.

Security and Convenience Go Hand in Hand

When you pay online, you want to know your financial information is protected without making every purchase feel complicated.

Payment providers continue to invest in technologies such as encrypted connections, multi-factor authentication, identity verification, and real-time fraud monitoring to help keep your account secure. 

According to the PCI Security Standards, organizations are encouraged to follow globally recognized security requirements that help protect payment account data throughout the payment lifecycle, reflecting the industry’s ongoing focus on secure digital transactions.

These security measures work quietly in the background, helping detect unusual activity while allowing legitimate purchases to go through with minimal interruption.

Convenience is just as important. Since you’re likely using your smartphone or tablet for many online purchases, you expect your payment experience to work just as smoothly on mobile as it does on a desktop computer. 

You should be able to review your transaction history, manage your account settings, receive payment notifications, and complete purchases wherever you are.

Digital wallets have made online payments easier. Instead of entering your payment card details every time you make a purchase, you can often complete transactions more quickly while reducing how often your financial information is shared across different websites.

The Federal Trade Commission also recommends using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication whenever it’s available, and regularly monitoring your financial accounts to help reduce the risk of fraud and unauthorized transactions.

Together, these improvements help make paying online both safer and more convenient, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your favorite entertainment and less on managing the payment process.

How Better Payment Support Improves Your Experience

Good customer support isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about making your entire online experience feel more reliable.

When you know help is available if something goes wrong, you’re more likely to complete purchases with confidence. Whether you have questions about a payment, need help verifying your account, or want clarification about a transaction, having access to responsive support can save time and reduce frustration.

Many payment providers also continue improving their self-service tools, allowing you to resolve routine issues on your own whenever it’s most convenient. This means you can often find answers immediately instead of waiting for assistance.

As digital entertainment continues to expand, these support resources are becoming an important part of what makes a payment platform easy to use.

What’s Next for Digital Payments?

Digital payment technology continues to evolve, and future improvements are expected to make your online experience even smoother.

Artificial intelligence is likely to play a bigger role in fraud prevention by identifying suspicious activity more quickly while reducing unnecessary security alerts for legitimate transactions. AI-powered support tools may also help answer common questions faster, allowing you to resolve simple issues without lengthy wait times.

You can also expect payment experiences to become more personalized. Future platforms may provide smarter notifications, more detailed transaction tracking, and proactive alerts that help you spot potential issues before they become larger problems.

As online entertainment continues to grow, payment services are becoming much more than a way to complete transactions. They’re evolving into platforms that combine convenience, security, and dependable customer support throughout every step of your online journey.

For you, that means more than just faster payments. It means having the confidence that your information is protected, your transactions are easy to manage, and help is available whenever you need it. As digital entertainment continues to evolve, payment providers that deliver all of these benefits are likely to become the ones you trust most.

The HECATE G2000 Pro combines transparent RGB styling, multiple connectivity options, and surprisingly powerful audio to create an excellent desktop speaker system for gaming and everyday entertainment.

HECATE is the gaming-focused brand from Edifier, a company that has been making audio products for many years. While Edifier is known for producing speakers and other audio gear for everyday use, HECATE was created specifically with gamers in mind. The company offers a variety of gaming products, including speakers, headsets, and earbuds, with a focus on delivering great sound, eye-catching RGB lighting, and features that enhance the overall gaming experience. HECATE aims to offer products that strike a nice balance between performance, quality, and price, making them a solid option for gamers who want to upgrade their setup without breaking the bank.

Unboxing and Setup

Inside the box, you will find the speakers themselves, the power supply, a USB-C to USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter, a 3.5 mm auxiliary cable, and an instruction booklet. Everything is neatly packaged, and there is very little setup required before you can start using the speakers.

The speakers are made primarily of plastic, but they feature a transparent design that lets you see the driver along with the built-in RGB lighting. I have to say, these are some very attractive speakers. The clear housing helps them stand out from the typical desktop speaker, and they look especially nice on a gaming desk with the RGB lighting turned on.

There are several ways to connect the speakers, including Bluetooth, USB-C, and a 3.5 mm audio connection. For my setup, I opted to use Bluetooth. I prefer having as few cables on my desk as possible, and Bluetooth gave me the cleanest setup while still providing a reliable connection. Pairing was quick and straightforward, and I had the speakers connected within a couple of minutes.

I typically use a gaming headset when I’m playing games, but when I wanted the lowest possible latency, I connected the speakers directly to my gaming device using the included USB-C cable. This provided a stable, latency-free audio connection, making it a great option for gaming when you want to enjoy your audio through speakers instead of wearing a headset.

Features

The HECATE G2000 Pro packs in a nice selection of features for both gaming and everyday use. One of the first things you’ll notice is the transparent cabinet design, which gives you a clear view of the speaker driver while the built-in RGB lighting adds a stylish touch to any desk setup. The speakers also support virtual 7.1 surround sound, helping create a wider and more immersive soundstage whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or listening to music.

Connectivity is another strong point, with support for Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, USB-A, and a traditional 3.5 mm audio connection. This makes it easy to connect the speakers to just about any modern device without needing extra adapters. To further customize the listening experience, HECATE includes three dedicated sound modes for Music, Game, and Movie, allowing you to optimize the audio depending on what you’re doing.

Powering the speakers are 3-inch full-range drivers capable of delivering up to 64 watts of peak power. The speakers also feature a bottom-mounted inverted tube design that helps improve airflow, resulting in deeper, fuller bass and a more balanced overall sound than you might expect from speakers of this size.

Overall Use

For my day-to-day use, I primarily kept the HECATE G2000 Pro connected to my Mac over Bluetooth. Whenever I was watching YouTube, streaming a movie, or just listening to music, I found myself reaching for these instead of my headphones. I spend a lot of time wearing a gaming headset, so it was nice to be able to switch to a pair of desktop speakers and give my ears a break.

I was impressed with the overall sound quality. The audio is clear and detailed, whether I was watching videos, listening to music, or playing the occasional game. The bass is also surprisingly good for a compact set of desktop speakers. While it is not going to replace a dedicated subwoofer, it provides enough low-end punch to make music and movies sound more enjoyable without overpowering everything else. The speakers also get plenty loud, easily filling my office without noticeable distortion at higher volume levels.

Overall, the G2000 Pro fit nicely into my daily routine. The convenience of Bluetooth paired with solid sound quality made them an easy choice whenever I wanted to enjoy audio without putting on a headset.

Conclusion

Overall, I came away impressed with the HECATE G2000 Pro Desktop Speakers. They offer an attractive design that stands out on a desk, plenty of connection options, and sound quality that exceeded my expectations for a compact set of desktop speakers. Throughout my testing, I primarily used them over Bluetooth with my Mac, and they quickly became my go-to speakers whenever I was watching videos, listening to music, or just didn’t feel like wearing my headphones.

The audio is clear, the speakers get surprisingly loud, and the bass is better than I expected for their size. While they are clearly designed with gamers in mind, thanks to the RGB lighting and gaming-focused features, they also work exceptionally well for everyday use.

My biggest complaint is the lack of dedicated software for macOS. While the speakers work perfectly fine over Bluetooth and the other connection methods, Mac users do not have access to software for adjusting settings or customizing the experience the way Windows users do. It is not a deal breaker, but it is something worth keeping in mind if you primarily use a Mac like I do.

Aside from that minor drawback, I really enjoyed my time with the G2000 Pro. If you’re looking for a compact set of desktop speakers with a unique design, versatile connectivity, solid sound quality, and surprisingly good bass, these are an easy recommendation, especially considering their price.

For more information, visit edifier.com

The foldable OBSBOT Meet Flip pairs a 1/2″ stacked CMOS sensor, four-mode intelligent audio, and AI-powered meeting intelligent features with hardware-based privacy in a 37.7g form factor, redefining the modern 4K webcam experience, from the first frame to the final summary.

Shenzhen, China, July 29, 2026 –  OBSBOT, an industry leader in smart videography technology, today announced its first foldable 4K AI-powered webcam OBSBOT Meet Flip. Built around a 1/2″ Exmor RS™ stacked CMOS sensor and powered by OBSBOT’s proprietary AI algorithms, Meet Flip delivers a level of image quality, audio intelligence, and advanced AI features.

“Meet Flip represents our vision of what the modern daily meeting webcam should be,” said Liu Bo, CEO of OBSBOT. “We believe privacy shouldn’t be something users have to think about. By building it directly into the hardware while delivering premium 4K image quality and intelligent AI features, Meet Flip makes privacy feel as natural as opening or closing a laptop. ”

A New Take on Privacy with Fold-to-Protect Design

Meet Flip’s most visible feature is also its most principled. Rather than relying on detachable covers or software-based privacy controls, it introduces a fold-to-protect design that physically blocks the lens when not in use. Closing the device physically covers the lens and activates sleep mode in a single fluid motion, providing a clear and unmistakable privacy state that users can verify at a glance. Open it when you’re ready to be seen, fold it shut when you’re not.

Weighing just 37.7 grams, Meet Flip is among the lightest 4K webcams on the market. Its integrated unibody clip attaches instantly to laptops, monitors, or standard tripods, and supports landscape, portrait, and upside-down orientations. A built-in 1/4″ thread provides universal tripod compatibility, making Meet Flip as ready for a kitchen-table call as a client presentation in a boardroom.

Imaging Built for Everyday Work and Creation

Meet Flip is built around a 1/2″ stacked CMOS sensor with Exmor RS™ architecture and Quad Bayer technology, components more commonly found in premium-tier webcams. The result is noticeably better dynamic range, lower noise floors, and more accurate color reproduction than webcams at this price typically offer.

Key imaging specifications include:

• 4K UHD @ 30fps / 1080p @ 60fps delivers ultra-high-definition video or silky-smooth high-frame-rate capture for motion-heavy presentations.
• HDR Mode intelligently balances exposure in high-contrast environments, so backlit faces stay visible
• PDAF Fast Autofocus + 4x Digital Zoom enables real-time focus tracking and flexible framing without manual adjustment
• F/1.8 large aperture with ISO 100–6400 range maintains consistent, clear video across everything from bright daylight to dim home offices

Four Audio Modes for Every Meeting Scenario

While most webcams treat audio as an afterthought, Meet Flip integrates an Intelligent Dual-Mic System combining omnidirectional and directional microphones. The system supports four scenario-specific audio modes optimized for different meeting environments:

• Directional Mode — Solo calls and presentations; focuses forward and cuts background noise.
• Dual-Directional Mode — Two-way conversations and in-person interviews; captures front and rear while filtering sides.
• Smart Omni Mode — Multi-person meetings; balances voices from all directions around the table.
• Pure Audio Mode — Unprocessed stereo output in independent left and right channels for those who need full post-production control.

Auto Gain and AI Noise Reduction operate silently across all modes (except Pure Audio), ensuring a polished result even when the environment is not.

AI That Works While You Focus on the Meeting

Meet Flip includes a set of practical AI-powered features designed to improve everyday meetings rather than distract from them.

AI Magic Notes is Meet Flip’s most differentiated feature. Powered by OBSBOT Center, it provides real-time transcription and automatic meeting summaries — capturing key points, decisions, and action items across Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams under a single subscription. Every Meet Flip ships with 120 complimentary minutes to get started.

AI Auto Framing uses real-time detection and OBSBOT’s self-developed algorithms, keeping users perfectly composed across Landscape and Portrait orientations, with Group, Single Close-up, Upper Body, and Full Body modes.

Gesture Control allows users toggle Auto Framing or adjust zoom using simple hand gestures with no keyboard, no mouse, no interruption.

Enhanced by OBSBOT Software and Ecosystem

Meet Flip is supported by OBSBOT Center, giving users access to practical tools designed for everyday meetings and presentations. Features such as Background Blur and Background Replacement help minimize distractions and maintain privacy, while Real-Time Beauty Mode provides subtle, natural enhancements for a more polished on-camera appearance. For presentations, training sessions, and remote collaboration, native Picture-in-Picture (PiP) overlays make it easy to layer your live video over presentations, documents, or other visual references without relying on complex third-party software.

For users who want to unlock even more from their webcam, OBSBOT Center also offers advanced customization options including Smart Eye Tracking, Teleprompter support, and detailed image adjustments.

Beyond the desktop, Obsbot Live extends compatibility to mobile devices, enabling Meet Flip to connect directly to smartphones and tablets via USB-C for flexible streaming and content creation.

Meet Flip is plug-and-play across major conferencing and streaming platforms and is designed to grow with users over time. Support for accessories such as the OBSBOT Meet Remote Control, UVC to NDI/HDMI adapters, as well as integrations including Elgato Stream Deck, Nintendo Switch 2, and OSC/API workflows, provides additional flexibility for more complicated use cases.

Availability and Pricing

OBSBOT Meet Flip is available starting today at USD $119 via the official OBSBOT online store, Amazon US, and select retailers worldwide. Final pricing may vary by region.

Webpages

Learn more about Meet Flip:

• Official website: https://www.obsbot.com/obsbot-meet-flip-foldable-4k-webcam 
• Official store: https://www.obsbot.com/store/products/meet-flip 
• Amazon US store: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GX94B2T6
• Get the OBSBOT software: https://www.obsbot.com/download 

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About OBSBOT

Founded in 2016, OBSBOT focuses on Autonomous Imaging, driven by the mission to achieve “Imaging Freedom for All.” We believe that at its core, imaging is about the pure freedom to capture and communicate. It should never be restricted by complex operations, steep learning curves, or expensive gear. Technology delivers its ultimate value when it remains invisible and serves people—and we are here to define the future of imaging experience through innovation.

By seamlessly integrating our three core technologies—AI algorithms, motion control, and optical synergy—we have built an end-to-end AI Autonomous Imaging system. Spanning everything from hardware capture and smart control platforms to content storage and sharing, this ecosystem drastically lowers the barrier to both professional creation and human connection. Today, backed by over 140 patents, our technology and user experience are trusted by creators in more than 150 countries and regions worldwide.

Moving forward, OBSBOT will continue to lead the autonomous imaging industry, empowering everyone to create effortlessly, express themselves freely, and achieve true Imaging Freedom for All.

The highly anticipated storage lineup will soon arrive on ORICO’s official online store with four models built for modern homes, creators and professional workflows

ORICO, a global provider of data storage and connectivity solutions, today announced the upcoming retail launch of its CyberData NAS Series. Following the strong attention generated by its crowdfunding debut, the complete lineup will soon become available through ORICO’s official online store.

The launch will include four models: the all-flash CyberData CF6, the hybrid-storage CyberData CF56 and CF56 Pro, and the high-capacity flagship CyberData CF1000.

Created for users managing increasingly large collections of photos, videos, work files and digital content, the CyberData Series brings high-speed storage, flexible expansion and private data management together in one integrated platform.

“The response to CyberData during crowdfunding showed us that users are looking for more than a traditional storage device,” said a spokesperson for ORICO’s storage product team. “They want speed, capacity and control in a system that can grow with their digital lives. The official retail launch marks the next step in making that vision available to more users.”

Four Models, One Connected Storage Experience

The compact CyberData CF6 offers an all-flash configuration with six M.2 NVMe slots and support for up to 48TB of storage.

The CF56 combines five SATA drive bays with six M.2 NVMe slots, offering up to 168TB of hybrid storage for users who want both high-capacity archiving and fast access to active files.

The CF56 Pro builds on the same flexible storage architecture with an Intel Core i5-1240P processor, dual 10GbE networking and dual 40Gbps USB4 connectivity for more demanding creative and professional workflows.

At the top of the range, the CF1000 provides ten SATA bays, two M.2 NVMe slots and support for up to 256TB of storage, making it the most expansive CyberData model to date.

All four models run CyberData OS, ORICO’s intelligent storage platform for file backup, synchronization, sharing, media management and cross-device access. The system also supports Docker, virtual machines and AI-assisted tools designed to make large personal and professional libraries easier to manage.

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Pricing and Availability

The ORICO CyberData NAS Series will be available from July 28, 2026 through the ORICO official online store.

CyberData CF6: ＄599.99
CyberData CF56: ＄699.99
CyberData CF56 Pro: ＄899.99
CyberData CF1000: ＄1399.99

Learn more about the CyberData NAS Series at: https://oricotechs.com/pages/orico-cyberdata-nas

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About ORICO

With over 17 years of experience in data storage and connectivity solutions, ORICO is trusted by users worldwide. Backed by extensive R&D capabilities, global patents, and international design awards, ORICO continues to deliver reliable, professional-grade products for creators, teams, and technology enthusiasts.

Hatch it. Raise it. Watch it develop its own personality, its own life.

Takway AI introduces Sweekar — an AI pocket pet inspired by the iconic Tamagotchi, but rebuilt as a living, evolving AI companion. It hatches from a physical egg, grows through four life stages, and develops a personality shaped by the relationship you build with it.

From the moment it hatches, Sweekar changes. Its appearance, voice, and behavior all shift as it progresses from Egg to Baby, Teen, and Adult — shaped by how you care for it, talk to it, and carry it through your day. It remembers what you tell it, recognizes your voice, and once fully grown, goes off on its own adventures and comes back with stories. It weighs 89 grams and fits in a pocket.

No two Sweekars are alike. Its personality is not preset at purchase — it emerges from the relationship, shaped by your care style, your voice, and everything you share over time.

“We didn’t set out to build a smarter gadget. We wanted a small life that’s always with you, something that remembers the little things, grows because of how you show up, and never feels like software pretending to care.” — Hongzhi (Irving) Gao, Founder & CEO, Takway AI 

HOW SWEEKAR GROWS

Growth is not time-based. It is earned. Every interaction — feeding, talking, cleaning, picking it up — generates XP. When Sweekar levels up, it physically grows a few millimetres taller (driven by a precision stepper motor), plays a special evolution animation, and unlocks new behaviors, new language, and new personality dimensions. No other product in the AI companion category changes shape across its lifespan.

▶  Egg (Lv. 1)   6.1 cm — Incubation. The egg cracks open as care begins.

▶ Baby (Lv. 2–9)   6.5 cm — High-frequency care. Speaks only in pre-verbal sounds: “mmm,” “ooh,” “wah.” Starts learning your voice.

▶ Teen (Lv. 10–19)   6.8 cm — Words emerge. Personality begins forming. NFC “friend-tap” social bonds unlock.

▶  Adult (Lv. 30+)   7.1 cm — Fully autonomous. Goes on solo adventures, takes virtual jobs, returns with stories. Cannot die from this stage onward.

THE MEMORY THAT MAKES IT REAL

Most AI companions have the same gap: sessions reset, context vanishes, and the relationship never actually deepens. Users reporting the same frustration: it feels like starting over with a friendly stranger every single time.

Sweekar is built differently. Its long-term emotional memory retains the owner’s voice, daily habits, shared stories, favorite things, and small victories and surfaces them naturally in future conversations. The longer you raise it, the more it sounds like it genuinely knows you. The memory lives in the cloud, visualized in the companion app as a scrapbook of your life together. 

Voice recognition is trained to the primary owner specifically, not general speech recognition. Sweekar learns your voice and responds to you. Its personality, shaped by an MBTI-inspired behavioral framework, develops differently for every person who raises it. Raise it one way and it turns out one way. Two people who buy the same unit on the same day will have fundamentally different companions very soon, because every person raises things differently.

The AI stack powering Sweekar enables multimodal interaction, context-aware responses, and continuous learning over time. Connectivity runs via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi or a phone hotspot — which means Sweekar works on a commute, in a hotel room, on a trip. Every other AI pet in the category requires a fixed home Wi-Fi network.

BUILT TO FEEL ALIVE

Sweekar is not a character on a screen. It is a physical object with presence and weight.

▶ Environmental awareness — millimeter-wave radar detects when it is picked up; it knows how long you’ve been away and responds accordingly.

▶  Touch response — head-patting recognition, facial expressions that shift with mood.

▶  89 grams — lighter than a smartphone. Pocket-portable by design.

The entire competing category is desk-bound or visually static. Sweekar is the only AI companion designed to accompany the owner through daily life outside the home.

WHO IS IT FOR

Sweekar is for adults who remember the Tamagotchi feeling and always wanted it to go further. For people whose lives — the travel, the schedule, the lease — make a real pet impractical, but who still want something real to come home to. It is not a toy. It is a companion that grows into something more personal the longer you have it.

It is also designed to feel safe. No camera. No personal data stored beyond what is needed for interaction. EN 18031 privacy standards throughout. No therapy claims, no urgency tactics, no dark patterns. Just a companion that is genuinely there.

And unlike the Tamagotchi it takes inspiration from, it does not end. From Level 30 onward, Sweekar cannot die. The emotional investment compounds for years. What you build together is yours  and it keeps going.

PRODUCT AT A GLANCE

Form Factor	Palm-sized physical egg; hatches and grows through 4 life stages
Dimensions	Closed: 61×59×46 mm  |  Adult height: 7.1 cm  |  Weight: 89g
AI Engine	Google Gemini Flash + ChatGPT-class models (hybrid stack)
Multi-layer memory system	(short-term, long-term, reflective); 128 long-term memory slots on the free plan, unlimited on Pro
Connectivity	2.4GHz Wi-Fi or phone hotspot; offline care mode available
Feedback	Vibration module
Sensors	Touch, millimeter-wave radar (pick-up detection), time-of-day awareness
Social	NFC device-to-device “friend tap”
Battery	730mAh — 8 hrs inactive, 2 hrs active use
Colors	Yellow, Blue, Purple (final availability TBD per production)
In the Box	Sweekar ×1, USB-C cable, charging base, user manual
App	Companion mobile app: life stats, memory scrapbook, MBTI profile, travel logs
Warranty	One-year replacement (tentative)

CATEGORY CONTEXT

Most AI companions on the market look and behave the same on day one as day one hundred. Novelty fades, and the device ends up in a drawer. Sweekar was built around a different premise entirely — one where the longer you have it, the more it becomes yours.

▶  Only AI pet that physically changes shape across its lifespan. Competitors’ customization is cosmetic-only.

▶ Only AI pet designed for on-the-go use. Competes via phone hotspot; the entire category requires fixed home Wi-Fi.

▶  Only AI pet with emergent personality. Ropet assigns a preset archetype; Eilik ties personality to the purchased SKU. Sweekar’s personality develops from the relationship.

▶ Long-term emotional memory tied to a specific owner’s voice. 52% of early reservation holders ranked this feature °1.

▶  Unkillable from Level 30. No competitor has made emotional longevity a marketed, engineered feature.

ABOUT TAKWAY AI

Takway AI Co. was founded in April 2024 in Shenzhen, China. The team’s original mission was narrow and precise: a small life that is always with you. Something that doesn’t leave. Something that remembers the little things.

They built it, broke it, and built it again. Much of what Sweekar is today was decided by what the team took out: the clever-sounding answers that felt hollow, the warmth that tipped over into flattery, the streak counters and daily hooks that turn companionship into a chore. The team comes from voice AI and embedded hardware.

Availability 

Sweekar is live on Kickstarter. Early backers can secure Super Early Bird pricing ahead of full retail availability.

Sweekar ships in Yellow, Blue, and Purple, with interchangeable silicone shells, 4 outfit packs, and an open-sourced 3D-printable model for DIY customization.

The Noise Master Buds Max are premium over-ear wireless headphones engineered to deliver an immersive listening experience with powerful sound and intelligent features. Tuned with Sound by Bose, the headphones combine Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation, Dynamic EQ and Spatial Audio to create rich, detailed audio across music, films and gaming. Supporting LHDC 5.0 high-resolution wireless audio, Bluetooth 5.0 with dual-device connectivity, they are designed for seamless everyday use.

With up to 60 hours of battery life, a lightweight over-ear design, ENC microphones for clearer calls and customizable controls through the Noise Audio app, the Master Buds Max offer premium performance and all-day comfort.

Available on Amazon for $139.99

Key features:

• Sound by Bose professionally tuned audio
• Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
• Dynamic EQ for balanced sound at any volume
• Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking
• LHDC 5.0 high-resolution wireless audio
• Bluetooth 5.0 with dual-device multipoint connectivity
• Google Fast Pair for quick setup
• Up to 60 hours of battery life
• ENC microphones for clearer voice calls
• Noise Audio app for EQ presets and customisation
• Lightweight over-ear design for long-lasting comfort

The Razer Travel Case Folio combines premium protection, an adjustable multi-device stand, and travel-friendly portability into a sleek accessory for the Razer Joro, Apple Magic Keyboard, and other compact keyboards.

One of my favorite gaming accessories is my Razer Joro keyboard. It’s slim, responsive, and extremely lightweight. Since my main gaming device has been a tablet lately, it has worked really well as an integrated part of my gaming rig. The only downside of it is that it doesn’t come with travel case. That actually changes today with the release of the Razer Travel Case Folio for Portable Keyboards.

About the Razer Travel Case Folio for Portable Keyboards

The Razer Travel Case Folio for Portable Keyboards is designed to make working and gaming on the go more convenient without sacrificing the comfort of a full-sized typing experience. Built primarily for the Razer Joro and Apple’s Magic Keyboard, it also accommodates many other portable keyboards with similar dimensions, making it a versatile travel companion.

Constructed with a durable PU leather exterior and a soft microfiber suede interior, the folio helps protect your keyboard from everyday wear while remaining thin and lightweight enough to slip into a backpack or laptop bag. A high-strength magnetic closure keeps everything securely in place, and precision charging cutouts allow compatible keyboards to be charged without removing them from the case.

More than just a protective sleeve, the Travel Case Folio features an integrated adjustable stand that supports viewing angles from 0 to 125 degrees. It can hold tablets up to 13 inches, smartphones, and many gaming handhelds, allowing users to create a comfortable mobile workspace or gaming setup almost anywhere. Priced at $55.99, the Travel Case Folio aims to provide a practical, premium solution for professionals, students, and gamers who want to take their desktop-like typing experience wherever they go.

Features & Specs

• Designed for the Razer Joro and Apple Magic Keyboard
• Compatible with other portable keyboards of similar dimensions
• Integrated adjustable stand for tablets, smartphones, and gaming handhelds
• Adjustable viewing angles from 0° to 125°
• Supports tablets up to 13 inches
• Compatible with many gaming handhelds, including the Steam Deck
• Durable, stain-resistant PU leather exterior
• Soft microfiber suede interior helps prevent scratches
• Ultra-thin and lightweight design for easy portability
• High-strength magnetic closure keeps the case securely closed
• Precision charging cutouts allow compatible keyboards to charge while stored
• Bridges desktop and mobile setups by providing a portable keyboard solution

Specifications

• Price: $55.99
• Dimensions: 310 × 115 × 22 mm (12.21 × 4.53 × 0.87 in.)
• Weight: 335 g (0.74 lb)
• Exterior Material: PU leather
• Interior Material: Microfiber suede
• Viewing Angle Range: 0° to 125°
• Tablet Support: Up to 13 inches
• Primary Compatibility: Razer Joro, Apple Magic Keyboard
• Additional Compatibility: Portable keyboards with similar dimensions
• Closure Type: Magnetic
• Available Color: Black

User Experience

The Razer Travel Case Folio makes a strong first impression. As soon as I took it out of the box, it felt like a well-made accessory rather than an afterthought. The PU leather exterior has a soft, premium feel while still feeling durable enough for everyday travel, and the microfiber suede lining provides a layer of protection that gave me confidence tossing the keyboard into a backpack. One thing I noticed immediately, however, is that the keyboard doesn’t physically attach to the case. Instead, it simply rests inside the folio as it wraps around the keyboard. Initially, I expected this to allow the keyboard to slide around, but during my testing it stayed securely in place and never shifted unexpectedly.

The overall construction strikes a nice balance between rigidity and flexibility. The front and back panels are firm enough to protect the keyboard, while the hinge area remains flexible, making it easy to fold into different positions. The magnetic closure is strong enough to keep the folio securely closed, yet it’s still easy to open with one hand. I also didn’t notice the exterior attracting fingerprints or lint, helping it maintain its clean appearance after several days of use.

Using the folio with the Razer Joro was straightforward. Because the keyboard isn’t clipped or magnetically attached, inserting and removing it takes only a few seconds. Charging cutouts are also well positioned, allowing the keyboard to remain inside the case while charging. Despite my initial concerns about the keyboard simply resting inside the folio, I never experienced any unwanted movement during normal use or while carrying it in a bag.

I go with Robyn to a lot of events, most of which I am not participating in so I am stuck at the hotel. During these times, I like to use my iPad with the Razer Joro keyboard now that I have the travel case I can confidently say my portable rig is complete.

One of the Travel Case Folio’s biggest strengths is how quickly it transforms from a protective case into a compact workstation. Opening the magnetic cover, placing a tablet into the integrated stand, and setting the keyboard in front of it takes only a few moments. I tested the stand with both my 13-inch M4 iPad Pro and my iPhone, and it provided a stable platform for both devices. There was no noticeable wobble while typing, and I never felt like either device was at risk of tipping over.

The adjustable stand worked well overall, although it wasn’t perfect. Initially, the hinge felt fairly stiff, but it loosened slightly with use. Once adjusted, it generally held its position, though I did notice the kickstand would occasionally slide a bit, requiring a minor readjustment. It’s not a major issue, but I would have liked a more secure locking mechanism to keep the viewing angle completely fixed.

Portability is where the Travel Case Folio really shines. It slides easily into a backpack or laptop bag without adding noticeable bulk or weight. More importantly, it gave me peace of mind knowing the keyboard’s keys were protected from scratches and impacts while traveling. While I wouldn’t expect it to provide significant protection from a serious drop, it offers more than enough protection against the bumps and pressure that come with daily commuting.

I also used the folio during an extended work session, and it remained comfortable throughout. The stand provided a comfortable viewing angle, and typing on the Joro felt natural whether I was working at a desk or away from my normal setup. Aside from the occasional movement of the kickstand, I didn’t encounter any significant frustrations during everyday use.

At $55.99, the Travel Case Folio is certainly more expensive than many generic keyboard sleeves. Those alternatives may offer thicker padding or additional storage, but they lack the integrated stand and custom fit designed specifically for the Razer Joro and Apple Magic Keyboard. After spending time with it, I came away feeling that the premium materials, thoughtful design, and added functionality justify the price. It’s the kind of accessory I would purchase myself because it genuinely made carrying and using the keyboard more convenient, rather than feeling like just another case to throw in my bag.

Conclusion

The Razer Travel Case Folio for Portable Keyboards fills a gap that many Razer Joro owners have likely noticed since the keyboard launched. Rather than being just a protective sleeve, it combines premium materials, a compact form factor, and an integrated adjustable stand into an accessory that makes it easier to work or game from virtually anywhere.

The Travel Case Folio costs more than a generic keyboard sleeve, but it offers considerably more functionality. If you own a Razer Joro or Apple Magic Keyboard and want a premium travel solution that protects your keyboard while doubling as a versatile stand, the Razer Travel Case Folio is an accessory that’s easy to recommend.

For more information, visit razer.com

From portable power and travel chargers to action cameras and ePaper devices, these travel essentials help holidaymakers stay connected, capture every moment and travel with confidence this summer

Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, with millions of people heading abroad for family holidays, city breaks and outdoor adventures. Whether travelling by plane, train or car, today’s travellers rely on more technology than ever before, from smartphones and tablets to cameras, eReaders and laptops. Keeping those devices charged, protected and ready to use has become just as important as remembering passports and sunscreen.

Whether you’re jetting off overseas, planning a road trip or exploring somewhere new, we’ve got your summer travel essentials covered. From portable power and universal travel chargers to action cameras, high speed storage and ePaper devices, these innovative gadgets are designed to keep you powered, organized and ready to capture every adventure while making every journey simpler, lighter and more enjoyable.

PORTABLE POWER WHEREVER YOU GO

The SolidSafe™ Air 5,000mAh power bank is available on the BMX website and Amazon RRP $59.99 (and coming soon to Amazon UK)

Meet SolidSafe™ Air, a next-generation power bank engineered for travellers who demand both safety and portability without compromise. Built on advanced semi-solid-state cell technology, it significantly reduces flammable liquid content compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, improving thermal stability and lowering fire risk. BMX validates this performance through rigorous internal puncture testing, including drills, cuts, and nail penetration, demonstrating resilience where traditional cells are more vulnerable to thermal runaway.

Precision-crafted with a titanium-reinforced housing, SolidSafe™ Air delivers exceptional durability in an ultra-slim form factor. Its sculpted design tapers to just 6.8mm at the edge, making it one of the thinnest 5,000mAh magnetic power banks available, ideal for effortless everyday carry. Available in Titanium Gold, Titanium Black, and Titanium Silver, it pairs premium aesthetics with robust protection.

Designed for modern charging needs, SolidSafe™ Air features Qi2-certified 15W magnetic wireless charging for seamless alignment and efficiency, alongside a 20W USB-C output and 15W input for fast, flexible wired charging.

With an 18.5Wh capacity, it complies with global airline carry-on regulations and meets CCC certification standards, making it a reliable companion for international travel, including use in mainland China.

Recognized at CES 2026 with multiple industry awards, SolidSafe™ Air sets a new benchmark for mobile power, combining cutting-edge safety innovation, refined design, and travel-ready performance in one ultra-portable device.

SolidSafe™ 5K available on the BMX Website, Amazon and Amazon UK RRP $59.99/£59.99 

10K available on the BMX Website, Amazon and Amazon UK RRP $79.99/£79.99

SolidSafe™ is a premium range of Qi2 magnetic power banks powered by advanced solid-state battery technology, designed to deliver safer, more reliable portable charging. By significantly reducing the liquid electrolytes used in traditional batteries, SolidSafe™ helps minimise the risks of overheating, swelling and fire while maintaining high-performance power delivery.

Built for everyday use and travel, the range is engineered to remain stable under demanding conditions, offering enhanced resistance to physical damage and thermal stress. Available in 5,000mAh and 10,000mAh capacities, each model combines Qi2 15W magnetic wireless charging with up to 30W USB-C fast charging, a built-in USB-C lanyard cable, and a full-colour LCD display providing real-time battery, charging and power information.

Finished in durable aluminium and available in Black, Orange, Blue and Silver, the SolidSafe™ range is designed for travellers, commuters and mobile professionals. Selected models also include a microSD card slot for added functionality, while optional charging docks complete the portable power ecosystem.

CUKTECH

The CUKTECH CP13 Magnetic Power Bank with Qi2 is available for RRP $49.99 from Amazon US & Amazon UK for £39.99

The core of the CUKTECH CP13 is its official Qi2 certification, unlocking peak 15W wireless charging speeds. By utilizing advanced magnetic alignment, it precisely snaps onto compatible smartphones-including the iPhone 12 through iPhone 17 series-to eliminate power loss from misalignment and deliver charging speeds twice as fast as traditional 7.5W magnetic power banks. Its heavy-duty magnetic array ensures a rock-solid hold, keeping the device safely locked in place during transit, outdoor excursions, or flight delays.

TRAVEL CHARGERS  FOR EVERY DESTINATION

TESSAN

TESSAN Voyager 205 Universal Travel Adapter Available from Tessan and on Amazon- RRP $128.00

Say goodbye to charging devices one at a time. Unlike most travel adapters with just 4 USB ports, 205W Travel Adapter offers an extra 3 USB-C ports on the front, enabling you to charge up to 7 devices simultaneously. One adapter is all you need to power the whole family.

Key Benefits

• The World’s Most Powerful Travel Adapter
• Charge Up to 8 Devices at Once
• Smarter GaN Tech, Cooler & Safer
• Universal Compatibility in 200+ Countries & Regions
• Compact Design, Maximum Freedom

TESSAN PD 25W Ultra Thin Universal Travel Adapter is available in black or white now for $24.75 RRP on Amazon, and also available on the TESSAN website.

The adapter provides true global connectivity with four retractable plug types covering more than 200 countries. Travellers can power devices across the UK, Europe, North America, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, and beyond without carrying multiple adapters. Its 5-in-1 configuration includes one AC outlet, two USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports, allowing up to five devices to charge at once. Each USB-C port delivers up to 25W in single-port mode, while the USB-A ports reach up to 18W, ensuring smartphones, tablets, earbuds, and other accessories charge quickly and efficiently during trips.

The TESSAN Ultra Thin Universal Travel Adapter PD 20W is available at a sale price of just £16.99, down from the regular price of £19.99 on Amazon UK.

The TESSAN adapter delivers fast and efficient charging through its two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. Each USB-C port supports PD 20W output, while the USB-A port reaches up to 18W, providing a total USB output of 20W. This allows smartphones, tablets, power banks, and other accessories to charge simultaneously in airports, hotels, or cafes without the need for multiple chargers. The 4-in-1 design also includes a single AC outlet capable of up to 2000W, enabling up to four devices to be powered at once from a single wall socket.

BMX

GaNsta™ LCD GaN Charger Range with Intelligent Display Pricing

• GaNsta™ 140W available on the BMX Website and Amazon from $89. 99
• GaNsta™ 100W available on the BMX Website (coming soon to Amazon) from $79.99
• GaNsta™ 70W available on the BMX Website (coming soon to Amazon) from $59.99

The GaNsta LCD family: 140W, 100W, 70W, and 45W. Image: BMX

The GaNsta™ LCD Series is a smarter way to power everything you carry. Designed to replace multiple chargers with one compact solution, the range combines high-performance GaN technology, intelligent power management, and a full-colour LCD display that puts charging data front and centre.

Available in 140W, 100W, 70W and 45W models, each charger features real-time power monitoring, per-port wattage visibility, temperature tracking, and touch-controlled display modes. 

The flagship 140W model delivers powerful multi-device charging from a remarkably compact design, while the rest of the range offers the same intelligent experience scaled to different everyday needs. Built-in AI thermal monitoring continuously optimises performance, supported by five layers of protection including overvoltage, overcurrent, overpower, electrostatic, and fire-resistant safeguards.

From the desk to the departure lounge, the GaNsta LCD Series brings together compact design, real-time charging visibility, and advanced safety in one intelligent charging ecosystem.

GaNsta™ 140W The flagship four-port charger delivers up to 140W through USB PD 3.1 EPR while remaining one of the most compact chargers in its class. Designed for power users, creators and professionals who want to charge a laptop and multiple devices from a single charger.

GaNsta™ 100W Offering the same intelligent LCD display and premium accessories as the flagship, the 100W model is ideal for MacBook Air, ultrabooks and everyday productivity devices while maintaining the same compact footprint.

GaNsta™ 70W A compact three-port travel charger capable of powering a laptop, smartphone and accessories simultaneously. Includes global plug adapters, braided USB-C cable and travel pouch for convenient international travel.

CAPTURE EVERY SUMMER ADVENTURE

The XTU S7 Pro Action Camera  –  available for $159.99 on Amazon US and the official XTU website.  For UK customers, it is also available for £159.99 on Amazon UK.

XTU is on affiliate platforms including Impact, Artemisads, and Wayward, offering up to 20% commission

The XTU S7Pro is a powerful action camera designed for creators, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts who want high quality footage in a compact and easy to use device. 

Combining a HiSilicon AI imaging pipeline with a 1/2 inch Sony CMOS sensor, large 1.6 micrometre pixels and an F2.8 aperture, it captures sharp 48 megapixel photos and smooth 4K HDR video at up to 50 frames per second, delivering impressive detail in both bright and low light conditions. Stabilization 5.0, horizon stabilization and 360 degree horizon correction keep footage smooth and level during activities such as cycling, hiking, water sports and road trips, while Gyroflow support provides additional flexibility when editing. 

The camera also features wireless microphone support with AI noise reduction, live streaming, voice control, automatic switching between landscape and portrait modes and up to 50 seconds of 4K pre-recording, ensuring important moments are never missed. Fast Wi Fi 6 connectivity makes transferring and sharing content quick and simple, while the magnetic quick release mount, 1800 milliamp hour battery with Power Delivery fast charging, and lightweight design make the S7Pro an ideal companion for every adventure.

Feature Snapshot – XTU S7Pro Specifications

• 4K video at up to 50fps
• Native 48MP photo capture
• HiSilicon AI imaging
• 1/2-inch Sony CMOS sensor
• 1.6um large pixels
• F2.8 aperture
• 152-degree 7-element ultra-wide lens
• Stabilization 5.0
• Horizon stabilization and 360-degree horizon correction
• Wireless microphone support with AI noise reduction
• 5GHz Wi-Fi 6
• Live streaming support
• Voice control
• Up to 50 seconds of 4K pre-record
• Magnetic quick-release mount
• 2.29-inch touchscreen
• 1800mAh battery
• PD fast charging
• Automatic landscape/portrait switching
• In-vehicle loop recording mode 

SAVE EVERY HOLIDAY MEMEORY

Lexar Silver Plus MicroSD card – Available in 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 521GB, 1TB and 2TB capacities

Available on Amazon UK from £22.49

The Lexar Silver Plus microSD UHS-I Card delivers detailed, high-clarity video capture rated at V30 and U3, making it ideal for Dash Cams, photography and smooth 4K 60fps recording. Its broad compatibility ensures seamless use across smartphones, tablets, drones, and action cameras, including leading devices from DJI and GoPro. Built for reliability, the card withstands temperature extremes, X-rays, vibration, magnets, shock, and drops, providing dependable performance in demanding environments. It includes the Lexar Recovery Tool for retrieving accidentally deleted files and is supported by a limited lifetime warranty. Every card undergoes rigorous testing within the Lexar Quality Labs, where thousands of cameras and digital devices are used to validate performance, quality, and long-term durability. The result is a robust, high-speed microSD solution engineered to support modern content creation across a wide range of devices and shooting conditions.

YOUR DIGITAL TRAVEL COMPANION

BOOX Go 10.3 Gen II E Ink Tablet – available for £399.99/ €419.99/ US$419.99 (US Market) and US$399.99 (Standard) from BOOX (US) and BOOX (EU).

The Go 10.3 (Gen II), like its predecessor doesn’t have a front light layer, providing ink-on-surface visuals with exceptional clarity under direct sunlight and also features a high-definition 300 PPI monochrome ePaper display optimized for outdoor readability. At just 4.6 mm thin, the Go 10.3 (Gen II) maintains a sleek design while housing a 3700 mAh battery. Meaning that not accounting for Wifi and bluetooth, the tablets can last weeks on a single charge. The size supports a nomadic work style without compromising battery performance.

The tablet comes with the InkSense Plus stylus, which supports 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels and tilt recognition. Users can access digital tools including Lasso, Insert, Outlines, and Tags to organize handwritten notes, sketches, and brainstorming sessions.

Running Android 15, the Go 10.3 (Gen II) Series provides access to Google Play Store apps. An upgraded Octa-core processor powers multitasking and app performance, so this generation is fast while maintaining an eye-friendly, distraction-reduced interface. The tablets include 64GB of storage and support 26 digital file formats, allowing users to carry extensive document libraries. The built-in NeoReader app offers customizable reading and annotation capabilities for digital books.

The Go 10.3 (Gen II) Series delivers sunlight-ready clarity, ultra-thin design, and focused tools for those on the move. Built to support work-life integration and reduce screen fatigue, these tablets act as an anti-burnout tool that enables seamless work across any location.

BOOX Tappy Page Turner – Available from BOOX (EU) and BOOX (US) for Standard Price US$25.99/U.S. market US$29.99/EU €29.99/UK£25.99.

Multiple Modes Fit Your Needs

To adapt to different types of content, BOOX Tappy features three modes. By simply holding both the left and right buttons for five seconds, you can switch modes to transition seamlessly from one task to another.

• Reading Mode: Tailored for page-by-page reading. With a simple click, you can effortlessly flip through stories in most reading apps.
• Browsing Mode: Perfect for browsing news or long-form articles. This mode allows you to scroll up and down through vertical content smoothly.
• Multimedia Mode: Ideal for “ear-reading”. If you are listening to audiobooks or music, Tappy functions as a remote to skip to the previous or next track.

Designed for Seamless, Uninterrupted Use

Everything about the BOOX Tappy is made to stay out of your way. With instant Bluetooth pairing, it’s always ready to dive into your next chapter. Powered by a long-lasting battery with USB-C fast charging, it supports weeks of use on a single charge. To keep you informed at a glance, the indicator light offers clear feedback on pairing, mode transitions, and low-power alerts. These thoughtful details ensure your focus remains exactly where it belongs: on the story itself.

DuRoBo Krono 6.13” ePaper Focus Device – Available on Amazon UK for £249, Amazon US for $279.99, and via the DuRoBo website.

Krono is built around a Carta 1200 ePaper display that delivers 300 PPI clarity for crisp text and comfortable long-form reading. Advanced AG etching balances transparency and anti-glare performance, ensuring visibility in bright or low light. A tuneable front light adapts to the environment, while the octa-core processor, 6GB RAM and 128GB storage provide smooth performance across reading apps, writing tools and productivity workflows. A 3950mAh battery supports extended use throughout the day.

The device features a slim, smartphone-sized body with a 16:9 aspect ratio, clean lines and a matte finish. The signature Axis on the rear provides a subtle breathing light, while the ergonomic Smart Dial offers tactile navigation for page turning, scrolling, brightness control and instant access to Spark, Krono’s idea capture tool. Widgets and customizable lock screens allow users to personalise the device while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

Krono’s native software tools are designed to support conscious, distraction-free thinking. Spark acts as an idea vault, allowing users to long-press the Smart Dial to record voice notes which are transcribed and summarised using AI. Users can switch to text mode for drafting or refining prose. Libby AI, accessible from the home screen or via a double-press of the Smart Dial, provides instant answers, news summaries or creative prompts. A built-in Music function offers ambient soundscapes, white noise and lo-fi audio for focus or relaxation. With full Google Play Store access, users can add meditation apps, cloud drives, reading platforms and more.

DuRoBo has continued to refine Krono with a steady cadence of meaningful software updates. Software Update 1.2 introduces a native browser app for direct web access, desktop customisation with pinned apps, and full Korean language support across the system and within Spark transcription, joining Chinese and Japanese. The Smart Dial now brings smooth page turning and scrolling to third-party reading apps including Kindle, Kobo Books and Play Books. These improvements build on Version 1.1, which added the Transfer app for fast wireless file sharing, enhanced reading controls with adjustable fonts and layouts, saved Spark summaries and a cleaner bookshelf interface. DuRoBo has also released Version 1.2.1, adding an Invert Scrolling option for the Smart Dial based on user feedback. 

DuRoBo Moodi – available now for $30.99 / £30.99 from Amazon US the DuRoBo website.

Weighing just 18g, Moodi has a rounded, pebble-like silhouette that sits naturally in the palm. Its dual buttons feature DuRoBo’s signature “paw-pad” tactile feedback, offering a soft, springy rebound that makes each press feel deliberate and satisfying. The design is intentionally simple and ergonomic, allowing users to turn pages, scroll or control audio without shifting their grip or reaching for the screen. 

Moodi pairs via Bluetooth 5.4 and supports three intuitive modes:

Reading Mode enables one-handed page turns with a gentle tactile click marking each turn.
Multimedia Mode controls play, pause and track skipping for audiobooks, podcasts and music.
Browsing Mode provides incremental scrolling for articles, research notes and long-form content.

When paired with DuRoBo’s Krono, Moodi creates a seamless, distraction-free reading experience, allowing users to stay in a comfortable position for extended sessions.

Beyond ergonomics, Moodi introduces a playful, personal element through its swappable emoji button caps. Six magnetic caps are included, allowing users to change the look of the device in seconds with expressive options. Powered by a 90 mAh battery, Moodi delivers weeks of use on a single charge. A built-in lanyard hole adds portability. The device is compatible with a wide range of e-readers, tablets and smartphones, making it a versatile companion for digital reading and listening.

POWER EVERY ADVENTURE – CAMPING POWER ESSENTIALS

FlashSpeed 2400 — Ultra-Fast 1-Hour Recharge Backup Power Station

Amazon US: $699.99

Amazon UK: £699.99 

The FlashSpeed 2400 is VTOMAN’s new high-output portable power station built for households, travellers and drivers who need fast, dependable backup power. With a 1408Wh LiFePO4 battery, 2400W output and 3200W peak, it can run refrigerators, medical devices, power tools, laptops and home-office setups during outages or off-grid trips. Its standout feature is the 1500W AC input, delivering a full recharge in just one hour, making it one of the fastest-charging units in its class.

Designed for real-world emergencies, the FlashSpeed 2400 includes a 10ms UPS, keeping sensitive electronics online during sudden power cuts, and a built-in 12V jump-starter capable of starting 8L petrol and 6L diesel engines in seconds. With 12 output ports, rugged construction, expandable capacity up to 2688Wh, and long-life LiFePO4 cells rated for 3,000+ cycles, it’s a versatile solution for storm season, RV travel, van life and outdoor work.

Feature Snapshot

• 2400W output / 3200W peak
• 1408Wh LiFePO4 battery
• 1-hour full recharge
• 12 ports
• 10ms UPS
• Built-in jump-starter
• Expandable to 2688Wh
• 5-mode LED light

Jump 600X — Compact Everyday Portable Power

Amazon UK: £219.99

Amazon US:  $239.99

The Jump 600X is a compact, lightweight power station designed for camping, road trips and everyday portable power. With 600W output, 1200W peak, and a 299Wh LiFePO4 battery, it’s ideal for phones, laptops, cameras, small appliances and emergency use. It includes multiple ports, solar compatibility and long-life LiFePO4 cells.

Despite its small size, the Jump 600X offers impressive versatility with 9 output ports, regulated DC power for car fridges and CPAP machines, and fast USB charging. It’s a great option for travellers, students, campers and anyone needing reliable portable power without the bulk of a larger unit.

Feature Snapshot

• 600W output / 1200W peak
• 299Wh LiFePO4
• 9 ports
• Solar compatible
• Lightweight
• 3,000+ cycles

BLUETTI Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station | 1,024Wh 1,800W 

Available for RRP £899 from Bluetti UK and Amazon UK

At just 25lbs with a compact 17L body and hidden handle, the Bluetti Elite 100 V2 is built for life on the move – from road trips to campsite essentials and emergency backup. Its 1,200W AC TurboBoost™ charging rockets the battery to 80% in just 45 minutes, while the 1,000W solar input delivers a full recharge in around 70 minutes, perfect for off-grid days. Car charging is equally swift, topping up six times faster than standard in-vehicle chargers. With 1,800W output (and 2,700W Lifting Power), plus 11 versatile ports, it confidently runs up to 90% of household appliances. The long-life LiFePO4 battery offers over 4,000 cycles for a decade of reliable use, and its whisper-quiet 30dB operation keeps nights peaceful. A rapid 10ms UPS mode ensures uninterrupted power for CPAPs, routers, and sensitive devices, giving you seamless protection anywhere.

BLUETTI Elite 300 V2 Portable Power Station | 3,014Wh 2,400W 

Available for RRP £2199 from Bluetti UK and Amazon UK

At just 3 kWh in an ultra-compact body, the Bluetti Elite 300 is Frost & Sullivan® Certified as the world’s smallest portable power station in its class — easy to place, easy to move, and built for home backup, RV living, and outdoor adventures. Its 3,014.4 Wh capacity and 2,400 W output (with a 4,800 W surge) confidently handle high-demand appliances from microwaves to heaters, keeping your essentials running wherever you are. The dedicated 12 V / 30 A DC port delivers stable power for car fridges and RV gear on road trips, while the rapid 10 ms UPS mode ensures seamless backup for routers, CPAPs, and sensitive electronics. With full Bluetti App control over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, you can monitor energy, wake the unit remotely, and automate usage with ease. Premium LiFePO4 cells rated for over 6,000 cycles provide years of reliable daily power, making the Elite 300 a compact heavyweight built to last.

The TCL K1 Smart Door Knob combines fingerprint access, app control, and multiple unlocking options at an affordable price, though a few reliability issues keep it from being a perfect budget smart lock.

TCL is a global electronics company best known for its televisions, but the brand also produces smartphones, tablets, audio products, appliances, and other smart home technology. The company has built a strong reputation for offering premium-style features and modern technology at more affordable prices than many competing brands. TCL has become especially popular in the TV market thanks to its focus on display innovation, including Mini-LED and QLED technology, while still keeping products budget friendly for everyday consumers. Over the years, the company has grown into one of the largest TV manufacturers in the world and continues expanding its presence across the consumer tech industry.

Features

This smart lock is designed for standard US doors and combines strong security with convenient keyless entry features. It offers fast fingerprint unlocking in just 0.3 seconds and supports four different access methods including fingerprint, passcode, app control, and a traditional key. The lock can store up to 100 fingerprints, making it great for families or shared spaces, while temporary passcodes provide easy guest access. Features like auto-lock, anti-peeping keypad protection, privacy mode, and passage mode add extra convenience and security for everyday use. The lock also keeps sensitive data stored locally instead of in the cloud for improved privacy protection. Built with a durable brushed aluminum finish, it runs on four AAA batteries with up to 12 months of battery life and installs easily using only a screwdriver.

Unboxing and Install

Inside the box you will find the smart lock itself, the striker plate and lock hardware, along with a small instruction booklet to help guide you through setup and installation. One thing to note is that batteries are not included, so you will need to have those ready before getting started.

Installation was very straightforward and only took a few minutes. After lining everything up with the existing door holes, it mostly came down to screwing the lock together and securing it in place. Once I installed the batteries, the lock powered on right away and was ready to go. From there, I downloaded the companion app and went through the setup process, which was simple and easy to follow.

Overall Use

In day-to-day use, the smart lock worked fairly well overall, but I did run into a few issues during testing. The fingerprint reader was probably my biggest complaint since it rarely worked on the first try. Most of the time I had to scan my finger two or three times before the lock would finally recognize it and unlock the door. It still worked eventually, but it definitely was not as quick or seamless as I expected from a fingerprint smart lock.

I also noticed an issue with the physical button on the lock itself. When I pressed it, the lock would make a sound like it was activating a feature, but nothing would actually happen. From what I can tell, I believe it is supposed to keep the door unlocked or activate passage mode, but it never worked properly during my testing. Oddly enough, that same feature worked completely fine through the app, which makes me think it could possibly be a software bug or firmware issue rather than a hardware problem.

Outside of those issues, the app experience itself was simple and easy to use. Setup was straightforward, and I liked being able to manage settings, unlock the door remotely, and control features directly from my phone. The lock also feels solid once installed, and features like auto-lock add some extra peace of mind for everyday use.

Conclusion

Overall, this smart lock offers a good mix of convenience, security features, and modern functionality at an affordable price. While I did run into some issues with the fingerprint reader reliability and the physical passage mode button not working correctly, the lock still handled basic day to day use fairly well. The app experience was simple, installation was easy, and I liked having multiple ways to unlock the door depending on the situation.

One feature I especially appreciated was the USB power option on the bottom of the lock. If the batteries die unexpectedly, you can quickly plug in a power source to temporarily power the lock and still get inside without being locked out. There is also an emergency backup key included, which adds another layer of reassurance in case of battery failure or app issues. Those small details make the lock feel more practical for real world use and help avoid one of the biggest concerns people usually have with smart locks.

For more information, visit tcl.com