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  • Smart-Device Review: Make Your Home a Smart Home Today

    Smart-Device Review: Make Your Home a Smart Home Today

    In the past few decades, electronic devices in our homes have transformed from ordinary objects into what was only thought possible in science fiction movies. Televisions, refrigerators, security cameras, speakers, among others, have been fitted with sensors that allow them to see, touch, and hear their surroundings, as they can transform physical data into digital data. When brought together, these devices make up smart homes or in most cases, “internet of things”.

    Just about every device with network connectivity is initiated to the internet of things. In smart homes, these gadgets relieve us from chores, allowing us to have a breather, while adding magic to ordinary experiences. If you are yet to delve into this world, you might be lost on where to start. Lucky for you, we have just the right devices that will set your home on the path to being a smart home.

    We have a list of the most common devices that cut across all smart homes. These include smart speakers that you can converse with, smart security devices that will amp the security in your home and smart controls that allow you to orchestrate things in your home regardless of your physical presence. Are you hooked? Buckle up as we start off with smart speakers.

    Amazon Echo vs Sonos One

    Amazon Echo

    Amazon’s Echo smart speaker first came into the market in 2015 and has maintained the lead in the smart devices market. The Amazon Echo is a series of smart speakers and mobile accessories that are internet-connected and are paired with Alexa, Amazon’s digital assistant. It wears different hats including serving as an IoT hub, internet search engine, a music player, and pretty much anything that Alexa Skill allows it to do. Let’s take a look at Amazon’s 2020 Echo.

    Being a smart speaker, its primary purpose is offering sound and compared to former Echo products in the past, the Amazon 2020 Echo has improved sound quality. For starters, this smart speaker has adaptive sound, enabling it to adjust to a room’s acoustics. Also, it’s 3-inch woofer and dual 0.8-inch tweeters, lower-range mids and bass are stronger and richer. Additionally, it boasts of power, that is, more volume.

    In addition to offering sound, the Amazon Echo is an integral smart home hardware. This particular speaker has two ways that smart home devices can connect to it. One, the Zigbee receiver allows the Echo to connect with other smart home devices, without an additional hub. With this receiver, Echo users are able to hook a wide range of gadgets in their house without having to worry about a smart home hub. Two, the Amazon Sidewalk aims at creating a shared network that will benefit any Sidewalk-enabled devices that are in a community.

    Pros

    • Has improved sound quality and more bass
    • Improved smart home connectivity
    • Hassle-free stereo pairing

    Cons

    • Has a bulky design

    Sonos One

    When it hit the market, the Sonos One brought a revolution. It was among the first smart speakers that didn’t have users choosing between excellent sound quality and smarts because it had both. It also didn’t have users choosing between Google Assistant and Alexa.

    The top of the smart speaker has a touch-sensitive surface. Swiping right or left will skip forward or backwards in your playlist. Tapping in the surface’s center pauses and plays your music. Finally, when you tap the right and left halves of the panel, you raise or lower the volume. However, you’ll probably spend most of your time controlling the Sonos using the app. The device also boasts of voice control where the speaker has six internal microphones that enable it to hear your instructions, and a pair of Class-D amplifiers as well as a tweeter / mid-woofer driver combination.

    Setting up the Sonos involves installing both the Sonos and Alexa apps, signing into both your Sonos and Amazon accounts, and any music streaming services that you might want to listen to using the speaker. The speaker encourages you to perform a ‘Trueplay Tuning’ process, where you move around the room with your phone while your speaker plays some test sounds. Your phone then establishes how your speaker sounds while in the environment, and tunes its sound.

    Pros

    • Is the best Alexa and Google Assistant speaker
    • Has a great app and supports many streaming services

    Cons

    • Does not use Bluetooth

    Final Verdict

    The Sonos One is better overall because it is a compact smart speaker with a great app, support for multiple streaming services and digital assistants. However, in bigger rooms, the Amazon Echo Studio produces a huge sound. It also boasts of more features than the Sonos One, including its sensitive microphones that allow Alexa to hear you over loud music.

    When it comes to features, Echo Studio boasts of more features including being able to connect to a TV while also being able to replay Dolby Atmos streams. The Sonos One advantage over the Echo is that you can use either Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control it.

    Smart Home Security Systems: SimpliSafe vs Cove

    With the evolution of smart homes, home security had to be featured. The thing is, home security cannot be confined to one gadget but instead comes as a package. These include security systems that can be paired with Google Assistant or Alexa and that you can install on your own or have it down professionally. First off is Simplisafe.

    Simplisafe

    Simplisafe is the most popular choice of home security systems that are no-contract, easy to set up and quite affordable. In an hour’s time, you’ll be able to set up environmental and security protection. Additionally, you can have it professionally monitored for $14.99 a month. However, DIY monitoring is also available through the Simplisafe mobile app.

    The SimpliSafe starter set includes a base station, a wireless keypad, a keyring remote, one motion and two entry sensors. All these are at a starter set cost of $244. The deal also includes a SimpliCam, a high def video security camera that has a motion sensor and sends alerts.

    SimpliSafe’s equipment is inexpensive but very high quality. For example, they have SmashSafe, a backup against tampering. If someone attempts to disable their system, their monitoring services alerts the police. They also boast of a Heartbeat feature, which checks continuously that the security system is working.

    Setting up the system is quite easy. In fact, most customers do it on their own with only about three percent asking for assistance. All equipment is either freestanding or can be attached to surfaces using removable adhesive.

    Pros

    • There are no long-term contracts to sign
    • Easy to install
    • Affordable monitoring plans
    • Professional monitoring

    Cons

    • Costly up-front equipment costs
    • Too simple for some homes

    Cove

    If you’re looking for a quick yet easy setup, then Cove is the system for you. You save money by installing the system on your own. The system is already pre-programmed even before it is shipped. All you have to do is to stick the sensors to your walls using their 3M-backed adhesives.

    All of Cove’s systems call for 24/7 professional monitoring, but you can either sign up for a month if you paid for the equipment upfront, or sign up for three years if you don’t want to pay for the equipment upfront.

    During emergencies, Cove’s team texts you, which comes in handy if you should ever find yourself in a hostage situation. This explains why Cove’s response rate is 10x faster than competitors.

    Pros

    • Can be integrated with Google Assistant and Alexa
    • You can choose to pay nothing upfront
    • Has battery backup

    Cons

    • Professional monitoring a must
    • Expensive remote control

    Final Verdict

    The Simplisafe Security System is better overall because it has an option for no contract making it easy and affordable to install in your home. Additionally, their equipment is inexpensive because they make it on their own and there are no middlemen involved. However, being able to integrate digital assistants gives Cove an advantage over SimpliSafe. However, both are quite inexpensive and easy to install.

    Smart Home Controls: Amazon Echo (4th gen) vs Samsung SmartThings Hub v3

    If the smart home devices in your home are to ‘talk’ to each other, you’ll need a smart home control or smart home hub. This is the gadget that brings together all your devices and allows you to control them using one app. With that said, let’s take a look at two of the best smart home controls currently.

    Amazon Echo (4th gen)

    In site of this gadget having featured in the smart speakers spot, it also makes for a great smart home control. The combination of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Zigbee make the Echo the best smart home control for most people. Furthermore, it has multiple radios, which help connect with a large number of low-power smart home devices. With Alexa’s routines, you’ll be able to use a number of triggers to activate other smart home devices.

    The hub also collaborates with Alexa Guard, which listens to smoke alarms and glass breaking, and can notify you in case of an emergency. Finally, it supports Amazon Sidewalk, which works with such things as Tile trackers and smart lights especially over greater distances.

    Pros

    • Awesome smart home skills
    • Impeccable spherical design
    • Good audio

    Cons

    • No battery backup

    Samsung SmartThings Hub v3

    This smart home hub is a darling among critics because it supports both Zigbee and Z-Wave. This allows you to link to hundreds of devices, which is considerably more than most hubs. Additionally, the SmartThings app is full of functionality, which allows you to come up with a diverse range of different scenarios for all gadgets in your home.

    This SmartHub also boasts of in-built Wi-Fi, meaning you don’t have to plug the device into your router. This gives you the freedom to place the smart home control in a location that is most convenient to you connecting it with other smart home devices.

    The downside is that it doesn’t have battery backup. Then again, if the lights go out, chances are you won’t be needing to turn your lights on.

    Pros

    • Supports Wi-Fi which makes installing easy
    • Supports automation more than any other hubs
    • Works with Z-Wave and Zigbee devices

    Cons

    • Doesn’t work with Nest products at the moment

    Final Verdict

    The Amazon Echo is the favorite for most people because of it’s ability to connect with many low-power smart home devices, thanks to its many radios. However, SmartThings ability to work with Z-Wave and Zigbee devices gives it somewhat of an advantage too. The Amazon Echo also boasts of better audio quality, especially at its price. The voice assistant, Alexa, is also pretty advanced which makes the smart hub, a darling to many.

    Conclusion

    The Internet of Things or smart homes are not in the future, they are here, and here to stay. In 2018, there were about 23 billion devices that were connected. Forecasters believe that the number will climb to more than 75 billion in 2025. This is mostly because people are becoming more comfortable with having these devices sit in their living room. Also, tech companies are dreaming up of new devices each day that work towards making life more comfortable.

    The future is evident in the evolution that is smart offices, smart buildings and even smart cities. Companies like Google are working towards autonomous vehicles that will connect to the internet and drive themselves to the destination of your choice. The bottomline is, smart devices are here to stay.

    The above smart devices are a good place to start when looking to transform your home into a smart home. Smart speakers and smart controls will be the heartbeat of every smart phone and purchasing one now is giving yourself a head start. Smart security systems also offer a cheap yet reliable way to ensure homes are safe. The fact that you can check up on your home remotely also makes them an attractive option. However, do your research before making a purchase depending on your needs.


  • 2021 Phone Deals and Review

    2021 Phone Deals and Review

    If you are in the market for a new android phone to replace your current handset, you have a bit of work ahead. The breadth of options for new android phones can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for in your next android phone. But choice is the best thing about Google’s mobile Operating System. Currently, Android provides an almost similar user experience for customers across many makes and models, while letting users prioritize the features that matter the most.

    Those on a tight budget can now get a decent android phone for as little as $200. If you can set up a $400 range, you will have a much broader range of great android phones. Most of the premium android flagship phones start at around $900. For that price, these phones offer some of the sharpest, brightest displays, cutting edge features, and some of the most advanced photography features.

    For now, 5g Phones remain the most premium feature on android phones even as 5g android phones steadily arrive from the likes of Motorola, TCL, and Samsung.

    A Review Of The Best Android Phones

    1. Google Pixel 4a

    At the top of our list if the Pixel 4a. Fortunately, it’s also one of the most affordable, which is a good thing for android enthusiasts. At just $349, the Pixel 4a packs quite a punch when it comes to its insane features. Here’s a complete smartphone, like you will never find for this price.
    You wouldn’t find other phone brands like Samsung or Apple price their flagships at this price range if they had the same features. If anything, such brands would charge double, if not triple this price.
    The Pixel 4a comes with one of the best flagship-caliber cameras. It’s good enough for performance and packs impeccable software. It has a well-built design that makes it very pocketable, 128GB of built-in storage, and a dazzling, bright 5.8-inch OLED display. And yes, it runs the android version 10.
    If the Pixel 4a suffered any shortcomings, it would be on its battery life. It doesn’t pack enough juice to keep it functional for long periods. But other than that, this is one of those nearly perfect phone flagships that you can find today. For the price, this is one android phone to consider shopping for.
    Oh, and Google has also confirmed that the Pixel 4a will have a 5G-supported version for $400, which isn’t bad either, all things considered.

    2. OnePlus 8 Pro

    The OnePlus 8 Pro is another very impressive, well-designed smartphone options that you can find on the market today.
    The hardware also has a bright, colorful display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This smartphone boasts some exceptional specs that lead to fantastic performance thanks to its super-smooth OxygenOS software. The 8 Pro is just a joy to use. It brings the best camera experience with new sensors that step up the model’s game to a true flagship level.
    The 8 pro also has a very large battery that packs even more power. This makes it the best android phone brand for handling power-intensive tasks. And its also IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, which is a bonus on its end. It seems that this camera all its features covered. Rounding out the hardware aspect of things, the 8Pro is an excellent smartphone for the price.
    Perhaps the only downside of the OnePlus 8 Pro is its weak telephoto camera. But other than that, this is one android phone to consider checking.

    3. Samsung Galaxy S20+

    Samsung phones are basically great options and excellent picks, but that’s if you have the budget to afford them. If you are out to get yourself something special, then the S20+ is a serious contender. However, compared to the OnePlus 8Pro, you’ll primarily be benefiting more from nicer cameras and one of the best phone displays in the world. The S20+ also has a ton of other amazing features that you would hardly find on other phones.
    This 6.7-inch AMOLED panel comes with a 120Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 865 processor, which makes many users happy. It allows this handset to operate at breakneck speeds and support 5G on all U.S. carriers.
    Samsung also made several improvements in the S20+ like the 4,500mAh battery, which packs more juice to handle even the most intense operations. It also has plenty of RAM (8GB) and storage(128GB or 512GB) to keep you happy. Samsung also allows you to add additional space using a microSD card as well.
    There’s a huge move up with regards to its camera. This Samsung flagship offers a new array of features both at its front and back cameras. The new sensors are all larger and allow more light, which allows its users to take better low-light photos. Sure, the camera isn’t entirely on the level as the Pixel 4XL, but it will still get the job one.
    Perhaps the only downside with the S20+ is that its fingerprint sensor becomes less sensitive and is a hit-or-miss after long time use.
    For the money that you pay for this product, you’ll find that it’s worth every penny.

    4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2

    As far as flip phones go, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the best on the list. Sure, at its onset, and first flagships didn’t look all that good. But the brand has made several massive improvements. Here’s an android phone that offers its user a futuristic concept of where mobile phones are headed.
    One of its most useful additions is the Flex Mode. This feature leverages the phone’s free-stop hinge, which prevents the device from folding while showing a custom, split-screen controls.
    The Galaxy Z Fold 2 has a massive 12GB RAM and 256GB storage that is expandable using a microSD card. This makes it excellent for multi-tasking and other computing functions like video chatting software.
    While these specs and other features are appealing to the eye, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 comes at a whopping $1,999, to be precise. Unfortunately, that’s way above most people’s budgets. Still, there’s no other phone in the world that performs quite like the Galaxy Z Fold 2, perched perfectly between a smartphone and a tablet.
    This foldable phone also comes with a few unique dilemmas. But that’s understandable considering that this is one of the first successful concepts today. The first downside is its ultra-thin Glass, which is prone to scratches, unlike the conventional glasses used on other phones. People have also questioned this foldable phone with regards to its durability. You also realize that most of the apps still aren’t properly optimized to show on such large display sizes.

    5. OnePlus 8

    People call this the iPhone 11 of android phones, and with good reason. This android phone flagship comes with a generous 128GB of storage and a higher-resolution screen of 6.55-inch AMOLED display. The OnePlus 8 has also been named one of the best 5g phones in the android market today. Thanks to OnePlus’ Warp Charge 30T technology, this model has one of the fastest wired charging systems.
    Unfortunately, it doesn’t have te best camera settings. It also doesn’t have an optical zoom. Users have also complained that it takes middling photos overall. That said, if photography isn’t your main concern, then this smartphone option should be a good fit for your needs. Some users also claim that its curved screen is more prone to accidental touches, which isn’t something users appreciate.
    Overall, this is an android phone that you can trust to perform when you need it to.

    6. Moto G Power

    As one of the longest-lasting android phones we have today, Moto G Power is relatively low-priced for the specs and impressive features. It also has a giant battery, which makes it a reliable option for users who perform a lot of power-intensive tasks on their phones. At around $300, this is another amazing midrange android model that you can get for the price.
    On the battery front, Moto G Power can last for up to 16 hours and 10 minutes when used to surf continuously while on LTE network, which is impressive.
    The G Power also comes with a 4GB Ram and 64GB internal storage. It uses Snapdragon 665, which can handle most power-intensive tasks. While the Pixel is still better at camera specs, the G Power‘s triple-lens provides decent shots that make it a worthy contender and decent choice for the price.
    Its only downsides are that its screen isn’t that much colorful, which some users might not appreciate. It also doesn’t have an optical zoom. However, again, for the price, these are features that non-photography lovers can do without.

    How To Choose The Best Android Phone

    Shopping for a decent android phone that meets all your requirements can be quite stressful. Of course, everyone would like to have their hands on the best android phones. However, there are a few limiting factors that you must consider, such as your budget, the processor speed, the camera, storage, etc. Some premium phone designs even offer foldable designs but can be very costly.
    Ideally, you can find a decent android phone for as low as $200 that comes with most o the basic features and specifications. However, as you move up to about $400, you will find even more compelling handsets that taut better processors, better camera lenses, and higher-grade materials. Process into the $700 range and up, and you have some of the best phones that flagship-caliber performance has to offer. These phones come packed with cutting-edge technology in photography and other special features.
    Basically, there are several options to consider when shopping for android phone. These include:

    1. The Screen Size

    Different phones come in different screen sizes, with the most expensive ones boasting some of the largest phone screens. The phone display plays a crucial role when considering factors like the phone’s resolution and refresh rate. For instance, a 6.9-inch screen usually results in a much larger phone compared to a 5.8-inch display.
    Also, considering that phones with smaller displays are much easier to manage, you may need to go for smaller phones. On the flip side, however, you will have less room on your screen to work.
    Then there are phones that have an average screen size. Most people prefer phones with these screens. But ultimately, the size of the display depends more on your preference.

    2. Are Software Updates Important?

    Software updates are another vital feature that most phone users hardly always consider. But it’s absolutely necessary, especially for android users who want phones that are always edging to evolve and make their phones better.
    Unfortunately, not many phones provide years-worth of software support. Currently, Samsung and Google are the best in the business in this front. They offer several security patches and updates to provide their users with better, more secure user experience.

    3. The Cameras And Megapixels

    This is aimed more at people who love taking pictures using their mobile phones. Over the past few years, there has been a tug of war between phone companies over which phones have the best cameras. Most of today’s phones now ship with two, three, or even four cameras. Unfortunately, having many camera sensors on your phone doesn’t automatically qualify your phone as the best at taking pictures. As much as having a 48MP primary camera boost Mobile Phones marketability. But this simply isn’t true.
    Take, for instance, the Pixel 4a, which has a single 12.2MP. But it takes much better photographs compared to most 48MP phone cameras.

    4. The Battery Size

    Battery life may not be the most fun feature to look for when shopping for an android device. But ultimately, it’s a critical component to consider, especially for users who use their phones for power-consuming operations.
    Sure, your phone may have the best displays or processors. But if it keeps dying several times a day, then what’s the point? The Pixel 4a has a 3,140mAh battery but can get you through a full day with continuous use. Then you have the Pixel 4 XL, which has a 3,700mAh battery but has worse endurance. Generally, the power your phone uses depends on several factors such as the refresh rate, and the size of the screen. Then comes the other features like power-hungry apps and constant use of the phone.

    The Bottom Line
    There you have it, our list of the best android phones to buy in 2020. Once you have an understanding of which android phones to consider buying and the budget to work with, you should be good to go. Hopefully, you will be better placed to make the right decision using this guide. Happy shopping!

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  • Review: 5 Best Features in the Samsung Galaxy Note 10

    Review: 5 Best Features in the Samsung Galaxy Note 10

    To kick off the unveiling of the new Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10 Plus, we’ve gathered a list jam-packed with the 5 coolest features included in the new smartphones. The Galaxy Note 10 is not just a new smartphone, it’s a gaming console, a film studio, a computer, comes with your own personal magic wand – and its all in one device!

    1. Smaller – and bigger
    The Samsung Galaxy Note has always been identified as a “big phone.” Users are pleased to see a smaller, hand-friendly version of the Note 10. It is about 0.2-inches smaller than the Note 9 and the Note 10+. 0.2-inches may not sound like much, however it makes a significant difference when it comes to fitting in your hand. On the contrary, this is the first time Samsung has rolled out two versions of the Note to include the Note+ for those who prefer a bigger smartphone.

    2. 3D Scanning
    While Samsung is not the first to roll out 3D scanning, they came up with a cool application for 3D scanning with Augmented Reality. Consumers can now 3D scan objects and drop them into their photos and videos. It doesn’t stop there; consumers can even animate them using motion capture. This will be huge for consumers that put out content on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

    3. Super-fast charging
    Long gone are the days where your smartphone battery dies a few hours after charging. With a quick 30-minute charging session, the Galaxy Note 10 will hold battery juice all day long. Samsung did this by including a 45W charger to amp up the wattage in comparison to competitors that have a 30W charger.

    4. S-pen
    Say goodbye to selfie sticks and self-timers because the Galaxy Note 10 comes with an S-pen that will allow consumers to take remote photos. It gets even better, with an accelerometer and gyroscope in the S-pen, consumers have their own personal magic wand with gesture-recognition technology.

    5. 5G
    The future is here – 5G is the latest version of cellular networks. This is a once in a decade upgrade to the way consumers can wirelessly deliver data, making the Galaxy Note 10 one of the fastest and most powerful smartphones in the market. Just how much faster? In this new era, the Galaxy Note 10 with 5G will average out to be roughly 20 times faster than the traditional 4G network you are currently using.


  • Home Internet Deals- Free Disney+, Hulu and other Big Incentives

    Home Internet Deals- Free Disney+, Hulu and other Big Incentives

    If it is time to upgrade your home internet, make sure you’re getting the absolute best deal on the market. Our team has put together a great list of the Best Home internet deals. Check it out!

    Verizon Fios: Internet plans start at $40 and come with a free year of Disney+. If you opt for the Fios Gigabit plan, you’ll get a free year of HULU and a free router rental.

    Spectrum: Internet plans start at $50 a month, but the big incentive is if you switch, Spectrum will offer you a $500 Buyout  for switching.

    Optimum: Optimum has priced their gigabit internet at $65, and if you sign up now, you get that price for life! In addition, if you bundle internet and TV, Optimum is offering free Showtime and Starz for 1 year.

    AT&T: Pricing for AT&T starts at $40 for their 1000 Mbps gigabit plan. You get a free VISA card up to $300 when you bundle Internet and TV.

    Questions to ask when you’re shopping for Internet: 

    1. Is this service available in my area?
    2. What specials are currently being offered?
    3. What speed can I expect in my area? Is speed guaranteed?
    4. Is there a cancellation fee?
    5. How reliable is the service?
    6. What cyber-security measures are in place?
    7. Can plans be changed before the contract expires?
    8. What is your tech support like?

  • Can’t Miss Electronics Gifts!

    Can’t Miss Electronics Gifts!

    Santa’s big day is just around the corner and while some have already checked off their entire shopping list, many of us are still trying to figure out the perfect gift and now we’re down to the wire.

    Adding to the stress of finding something they will love, is when you are looking for the dream gift for the tech-guru or simply tech lover in your life, especially if you are like most of “late-adopters” who are still trying to figure out how to update the latest Apple IOS, let alone determine what will delight your tech lovers.

    Our list is full of go-to gifts that can be found easily in stores or online and still arrive by Christmas, in two top categories that are hot and will not soon fall out of favor: the Smart Devices and their supporting speaker systems and Wearables.

    Below are recommendations on the best of the best in both arenas.

    SHOPPING TIP: Retailers are not only helping those of us who wait to the last minute, they have come up with clever ways to help us stay safe while we shop: On some products, Best Buy offers Ready in one hour with Curbside Pickup. Now with extended pickup hours throughout the holiday season. Same-day delivery. Order by 3 p.m, and get it by 9 p.m.Free next-day delivery on thousands of items.

    Smart Devices & Speaker Systems:

    1. Proven and Beloved, Google Home
    One of the originals in the game, Google home is tops. Even though it has been surpassed by newer technology like Google Nest, Google Home is proven and extremely popular. Since its launch in 2016 there have been new releases like the Google home mini and Home hub, so you have many options.

    If you are ready to move to Google Nest, it will not disappoint. It boasts a pair of pretty impressive speakers below its 10-inch display. It’s not as powerful as some stand alone speakers, but it will enhance your kitchen vibes, as you fill it with great sounds.

    You can use a stop hand gesture to pause music without having to touch the screen or use your voice (AWESOME FEATURE!). It also features a camera to identify individual members of the house, only displaying information pertaining to each family member, and the larger display makes it great for watching cooking tutorials. Google also added support for group video calling through Duo and Google Meet, making this an even better pick if you regularly connect with friends using those services.

    2. Favorite Overall, Sonos One
    Many could argue that there are louder or more portable smart speakers on the market, the Sonos One is still considered the best of the best. Compatible with most systems like Alexa, Sonos, AirPlay 2, and Google Assistant, Sonos has impressive sound, outstanding connectivity and super easy to use mobile app.

    Important Note: software updates will no longer be available for the Sonos One, so this is not a lifelong system.

    3. Most Popular, Amazon Echo

    Hello, Alexa! A sound system that will fill the entire home from a small device is part of why the Echo is so popular. Easy to use anywhere in the home, blends in the scenery and is simple to use, this is popular amongst both tech heads and newbies.  Gifts cards might seem impersonal, but if they can wait, you can impress your tech lover with your knowledge of the forthcoming release of the all-new Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) | HD smart display with motion and Alexa featuring:

    * Alexa can show you even more – With a 10.1″ HD screen that’s designed to move with you, video calls, recipes, and shows are always in view. The speakers deliver premium, directional sound.

    * Stay in frame – Video call friends and family or take a picture while the 13MP camera with auto-framing and motion keeps you front and center.

    * Smart home made simple – Set up compatible Zigbee devices or smart products without a separate hub. Ask Alexa to show you security cameras, control lights, and adjust thermostats.

    * Take a look around when you’re away – Securely access the built-in camera to remotely monitor your home anytime with the Alexa app or other Echo Show devices.

    * So much entertainment – Ask Alexa to play your favorite shows, music, and podcasts from Prime Video, Netflix (coming soon), Amazon Music, Spotify, and more.

    * The ultimate kitchen companion – Cook along with recipes on Food Network Kitchen, get unit conversions, set timers, add to your grocery list, and multitask with ease.

    * Put your memories on display – Use Amazon Photos to turn your home screen into a digital frame that makes your favorite pics look great in any light with adaptive color.

    * Designed to protect your privacy – Electronically disconnect the microphones and camera with one press of a button. Slide the built-in shutter to cover the camera. Disable motion at any time.

    4. Best on the go speaker, JBL Link Portable
    The 360 sound that comes from this small but mighty speaker is seriously impressive. It can fill an entire room to a back patio. Linking it to Google Assistant will allow for quick questions answered or for playing your favorite playlist.

    Extra perks:
    * Up to eight hours of playtime on a single charge
    * The IPX7 is water-resistant
    Speaking of JBL, do not overlook the JBL Link Portable which only costs $90, despite its age, it is still a fantastic speaker with impressive sound, bass and battery life.
    About JBL
    For more than 70 years, JBL® has delivered products that exemplify the technology and expertise gained through a leadership role in professional sound reproduction. The JBL name has been synonymous with the precise, naturally articulated sound found in many of the world’s most prestigious locations, including clubs, cinemas and recording studios, and live-music reinforcement in venues ranging from concert halls to outdoor stadiums. JBL loudspeakers are for those who won’t compromise – in the studio, at home or on the road. Due to increasing popularity, many great brands are subject to counterfeiting. These individuals and organizations take advantage of both the consumer and the brand they attempt to counterfeit with total disregard for the customer experience.
    https://www.jbl.com/

    6. Best Smart Soundbar, Yamaha YAS-209
    As an alternative to the producer made smart device, the YAS-209 from Yamaha offers compatibility and great sound. Fill every corner of your room with sound with this impressive device is considered the Best Buy you could make for personal speakers. It is compatible with Spotify and Alexa!

    Wearables:
    Wearables are not considered “new” technology to your Tech gurus friends, however thanks to advancements they are more accessible than ever and available in a variety of tools and options. Today’s technology makes it easy to monitor daily activity and stay connected. From basic activity trackers to sophisticated smartwatches, find the ideal wearable to help you stay up-to-date with the important details of your life.

    1. Wearables for activity tracking.
    No matter your level of fitness, there is a wearable technology to help you stay on track and reach your goals – from monitoring daily activity, to training for a marathon or simply tracking your heart rate, pairing a wearable device with the supporting app can be a big game changer. These days, trackers can be worn on your wrist or easily tucked on your belt. From discrete to high fashion the options are limitless. Wearable tech is set for another blockbuster year in 2020 – and there’s a host of big changes afoot that will shape our connected lives.

    Fitbit is one of the most trusted and a leader in the category offering a bevy of wearable styles, fits, support and accessories.
    https://www.fitbit.com/global/us/home

    2. Sleep tracking gets serious
    We all know that sleep is critical to your health, but getting the recommended eight hours is a big challenge for many, even without distractions from pets or kids. The right sleep can help curb food cravings, fight aging and depression, reduce your risk of heart disease and more. It’s no wonder that wearables have become so popular.
    Sleep tracker producers like Fitbit, Garmin and Withings are seeking to offer richer insights into your sleeping habits. It is longer just about how your quality of sleep, but learning about how to improve your sleep and what you can discover from you can sleep patterns. Fitbit uses SpO2 to help detect signs in your sleep that you could be suffering from the sleep disorder sleep apnea. It’s likely that Apple will join the game at some point too.

    3. Wearables make their way to the slopes!
    Carv is a newcomer that is helping change the way ski buffs improve their skills. Carv has packed 36 pressure sensors and a motion sensor into a ski boot insert and built it to withstand hard days of skiing while it analyses your technique and coaches you with live audio, in real time. The best part is, because Carv fits under the liner of your boot, you can use it in custom moulded ski boots, stock boots or rentals. It even works with your custom insoles. “It will improve your skiing, the live feedback and challenges are absorbing and will refine technique whether you are an intermediate, advanced or a pro.” Andy Townsend

    4. Don’t forget “Hearables” 
    Named best overall by Wired magazine.
    1More ColorBuds
    Headphones & Earbuds
    The lesser-known audio brand 1More has made the top of the list for all-around in-ears for two generations. Recently renamed ColorBuds, the second generation of 1More’s $100 wirefree headphones will be a fast favorite. Extremely comfortable, sweat-resistant, and sounds that compares to ear buds two to three times its price. Wear them for hours at a time and forget they’re there thanks to their comfortable design. Great for those who want to get outdoors for a little socially distant exercising. Small, light and a long battery life gives you even more reason to love these ear buds.

    5. For the tech loving dog owner: the Link Plus dog collar
    The link Plus smart tracker is a sophisticated GPS unit designed for dog comfort, fit and fashion. It lets you track a lost dog with GPS, monitor activity, health & wellness, log vet Records, receive ambient temperature alerts, and much more. The Link AKC app to be used with the link Plus smart collar helps you take a more informed and active role in managing your dog’s well-being and to feel connected to your dog when you’re apart from each other. Included with each link Plus smart tracker purchase is a link Plus tracking unit, universally compatible collar carrier and a sleekly-designed link Plus base station and charging cord. The base station is used to charge the tracking unit and also features a USB port to make it convenient to charge both your dog’s tracking unit as well as your cell phone simultaneously. Link Plus service plan is required in order to activate the tracking unit and have full feature functionality of the Link AKC app (available for download on iOS and Android). to learn more visit www. Linpac. Com website. Note: this does require a monthly subscription plan.

    Bonus ideas for the techie who has it all:
    Kodak Ultra Mini Portable Projector –

    Make cinema magic with the ultimate multimedia companion!
    Enjoy stunning HD video and imaging in the palm of your hand with the Small DLP Pocket Projector from KODAK. Integrating revolutionary innovations in compact digital design, this miniature movie player produces high quality imaging in a truly portable package. Transport to the fantasy world of your choice with a booming 1 W speaker and dazzling 16.7 million color display. Compatible with today’s most popular entertainment devices, the projector includes a 3.5mm input and integrated HDMI, USB and MicroSD hookups. Simply connect your PC, Mac, cable box, gaming console or HDMI video player without the hassle of complicated buttons and menu screens. Just plug, play and experience a pocketful of possibilities!

    What You Get:
    – 1 x DLP Pocket Projector from KODAK
    – An integrated 1 W speaker
    – Effortless onboard controls
    – The tiniest big screen movie projector in the world!

    Finally- Even water bottles have gotten smarter!

    Stay healthy and hydrated with Hidrate Spark 3!
    Meet our most advanced smart water bottle yet! With all new full-bottle glows, faster syncing and better battery life, the Hidrate Spark 3 makes drinking more water as easy as blink, drink, sync. This smart water bottle tracks your water intake and lights up to remind you to drink through our free Hidrate App powered by Bluetooth. The soft grip body makes it easy to keep your bottle in hand while on-the-go. Choose from three glow modes for extra motivation every day.
    www.hidratespark.com


  • Everything You Need to Know About 5G!

    Everything You Need to Know About 5G!

    Today, just about every smartphone maker is working on 5G-ready phones.

    2020 is proof that the world is ready for 5G Phones. So, whether you’re buying now or simply reviewing to buy later, this blog post is for you.
    Buying a 5G mobile makes a lot of sense right now as several mobile operators, the likes of AT&T and T-Mobile, roll out 5G coverage to even more cities. This will give 5G phone users even more access to extra bandwidth and super-fast speeds.

    On top of that, you’ll also notice that the price premium of upgrading to a 5G phone is shrinking as we move further into 2020. Soon, there should be a wide range of 5G phones to pick from.

    5G Explained – What Is 5G?

    Simply put, 5G is successor to the common 4G/LTE, which also succeeded 3G. As you can see, there’s a pattern here. As more phones and networks become 5G-capable, more smartphone users will start enjoying faster download and upload speeds, among many other benefits 5G has to offer.

    The speed of the 5G network connection depends more on the device you are using, the network you are on, and the location. But there are always improvements being made. There’s a time when you will be able to download 4K movies on your device in a matter of minutes or stream 4K movies on Netflix or Hulu on the road.

    However, 5G isn’t just about the connection speed. It’s also about your phone’s capacity and the ability to get a stronger signal even in crowded areas. That’s to say, you shouldn’t lose or have a slow connection when you are at a crowded music festival or stadium.

    Why You Should Get A 5G Phone Today
    Thanks to the super-fast technological enhancements, 5G is no longer a thing for the future. It’s here, and now. And the new networking standard has come with a set of perks that will wow even the reserved smartphone users.

    Here’s why you should get a 5G handset today:

    • 5G Is Faster Than 4G/LTE
    This is perhaps the main reason why you should get a 5G-enabled phone today. 5G networks deliver super-fast speeds with lower latency compared to its 4G counterpart. You will notice significant marked improvements in both download and upload speeds on 5G networks than 4G networks. With 5G networks clocking speeds of up to 1Gb/s or more, it’s safe to say you can download a full 3-hour film on a 5G phone in under a minute or two.

    • 5G Is Becoming More Widespread
    5G coverage is becoming easier to find as time goes by. Network operators like T-Mobile are working round the clock to boost its 5G network coverage throughout the nation. It already covers over 5,000 cities, and over 200 million people have access to it. And that figure is set to expand even faster once the T-Mobile Sprint Merger goes through. So, if your area doesn’t have 5G coverage yet, it will soon enough.

    • 5G Phones Are Plentiful
    As aforementioned, smartphone manufacturers are producing even more 5G phones and setting them on the market. When Verizon turned the switch on its 5G service in Minneapolis and Chicago last April, there wasn’t even a single phone that had 5G-support built in to use on this first commercially available network. Smartphone users had to but the Moto Z3 and a 5G Moto Mod attachment to connect with this network.

    Today, however, you’ll find a handful of 5G phones coming out almost monthly, from Samsung, LG, and OnePlus. But the first 5G-enabled phones were usually limited to specific areas and were very pricey as well. It’s quite a different story now as most of the latest smartphones feature 5G and work with almost every carrier.

    • 5G Is Future-Proof
    Another noteworthy fact about 5g phones is that most of them are arriving this year. And they use Qualcomm’s X55 5G modem. This modem can reach speeds of up to 7.5Gb/s, which is just insane even for 2020 and can work comfortably with different 5G networks without a cinch.GG

    Now, on to the meat of this excerpt. Here’s a detailed list of the best 5G phones you should consider buying in 2020:

    1. Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus
    At the top of our list is the S20 Plus, which most of its users claim is just the best phone overall in 2020. It’s also the best 5G phone you can get in the market today since it works on all 5G networks. It supports AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. So, you’ll be supported and connected no matter which 5G network you’re on. The Snapdragon 865 processor makes 5G connectivity possible and delivers performance that matches or surpasses any other Android phone.

    It also has a QHD AMOLED screen that lets you get a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing for smoother scrolling an even better mobile gaming experience. Samsung made several significant improvements on its phone’s camera as well, with a 64MP telephoto lens that stands out for its super-crisp zoom shots.

    Perhaps the biggest know users realize when buying the S20 Plus is its price tag. At $1,199, you know this isn’t a device for people on a budget. However, you get a lot more from the phone for that hefty price. The 120HZ refresh rate has also been known to impact battery life, especially when using power-intensive apps or games.

    2. OnePlus 8 Pro
    Next in line is the OnePlus 8 Pro. This is one of the best Android phones on the market today, and it costs $300 less than the Galaxy S20 Pro. However, the 8 Pro is more limited compared to its rival phones for 5G connectivity purposes. The 8 Pro is only available unlocked. Therefore, you cannot buy it through any specific wireless carrier.

    But more significantly, the 8 Pro works only on sub-6HZ-based 5G networks. As a result, it cannot benefit from mmWave-based 5G. So, Verizon customers will have to shop for a different phone as Verizon relies heavily on mmWave for its connectivity.

    However, this is less of a concern, especially on T-Mobile, which was built on sub-6Ghz 5G. So, if this handset is compatible with your carrier, you will have one of the most powerful Android phones with a smooth and vibrant 120Hz screen, a ridiculously fast charging speed, and very good quad cameras. Moreover, Google is constantly sending upgrades and security updates to this phone. So, you know you are in great hands.

    3. Samsung Galaxy Fold 2
    Inasmuch as 5G phones may be getting cheaper, the Fold 2 seems to be heading in the opposite direction, with a market price of $1,999, this is perhaps the most expensive 5G phone on the market today. But Samsung never disappoints, especially when it comes to exclusive features and value, and the Fold 2 is beaming with them.

    First, this handset has the Snapdragon 865 Plus processor, which connects to any 5G network and delivers superior performance. The Fold 2 opens up to a 7.6-inch screen, which is perfect for video streaming over 5G’s faster network speeds. The screen also allows its user to multitask easily without a cinch.

    In addition to being pricey, the Fold 2 isn’t a slender handset, especially when folded up. You will have to carry it around in your coat pocket instead. But overall, this is the best foldable phone you can find in the market today. And It also happens to be 5G-enabled.

    4. LG Velvet
    The LG Velvet is another fantastic 5G phone and sells for less than $600 today. It features a stylish design and comes in a bright, colorful display that shames its more expensive rivals. The LG Velvet supports two 5G networks, which are Verizon and AT&T. It also has a Snapdragon 765G processor that delivers a solid performance for the price. Its cameras are also pretty slick. But somehow, they don’t work as well on low light.

    This handset works with both Verizon and AT&T. There’s a T-Mobile version that’s set for unveiling soon. Customers will also have to pay an extra $50 premium for models that use LG’s high-speed 5G signal. Either way, you’ll have the luxury of toting around with one of the best 5G handsets currently available. Recent customers also applaud its decent performance, battery life, and cameras. And the fact that it is 5G-enabled is a bonus.

    5. Motorola Edge
    The Motorola Edge is another top-notch 5G phone that supports all network programs. That’s because it comes unlocked, allowing its users to use any 5G network with it. It also has one of the best batteries in the market and can last up to 12hours when its screen’s refresh rate is set to 60HZ. The 90Hz refresh rate consumes more power but doesn’t impact the battery life too much.

    On the downside, the Motorola Edge suffers in the camera section. Therefore, if mobile photography is your forte, you should look elsewhere. But where it lacks in one area, it makes up for in another. This is a great 5G phone option, especially for someone who uses his/her phone all the time and doesn’t want to deal with issues of their phones dying on them.

    6. Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
    Here’s another amazing Samsung Galaxy flagship whose 5G networks support T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. Priced at $1,399, the S20 Ultra also boasts plenty of features, with 5G being one of them. Overall, this is the handset to turn to if money is no object to you.

    The S20 Ultra also has a 120Hz refresh rate, which allows for a much smoother and immersive experience when using the phone. It also has a 5,000mAh battery that allows more uptime even when handling power-intensive applications or games. Its quad-lens rear cameras are excellent for taking some of the best pictures on a handset. And the powerful Space Zoom works up to 10x.

    7. The Motorola Edge Plus
    Finally, but not the least on the list is the Motorola Edge Plus. This is just the ultimate 5G mobile phone for Verizon customers. That’s mainly because it was built to fly on the carrier’s mmWave network and supports Big Red’s sub-6Hz deployment.
    Unfortunately, the Motorola Edge Plus is only available on Verizon, meaning it’s not the 5G phone for everyone. Overall, you will be impressed with this handset’s performance, powerful speakers, and display. Its cameras may also not measure up to its competition, and its battery life isn’t the best in the industry either.

    However, if you want the best 5G experience using a handset on Verizon, this is your best option. It’s currently valued at $999, which most people would consider as too pricey. But you could also go for the Motorola Edge unlocked, which is a less expensive version though you will have to deal with the less powerful processor and smaller battery too.

    Overall, the Motorola Edge Plus offers great performance for a 5G phone, has a headphone jack, which is a blessing in some of these recent phones, and a booming audio. It’s one handset you should consider buying to get the most out of your 5G network experience.

    5G Phones Aren’t Just for Enthusiasts Anymore
    From the above excerpt, it’s evident that 5G coverage is growing at an exponential rate. However, it’s not yet to the point where you can say 5G phones are affordable and owned by a vast majority of smartphone users. But what we know so far is that the smartphone market is already trying to adjust its current and future handsets to feature 5G connectivity or miss out as everyone else moves forward.

    Very soon, it will get to a point where every phone released in the market is 5G-enabled. Anything less won’t sell as much. Some of these phones also have great hardware and should be set to serve you for several years before you need another upgrade. But for the prices they fetch, this should be obvious.
    Overall, having a 5G phone now is more of a need than a want. A year from now, 5G will be a great side-benefit. So, better start investing in a handset that’s set to serve you for the next few years and guarantee you the use of the fastest network speeds yet.

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  • Black Friday Deals You Can Get Right Now!

    Black Friday Deals You Can Get Right Now!

    Over the past decade, Black Friday has emerged as one of the premier shopping days to find deals. However, these days- many retailers have made their exclusive sales on certain items available before Black Friday. Sites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Macy’s have made it possible for their customers to enjoy the cheap prices that come with black Friday for a longer period of time. Don’t be surprised to find that many products on the sites are on sale right now. Our team has scoured the big retailers to find the best for you. We’ve managed, through testimonials and referrals, to identify the crème de la crème products, and as a result compiled a list of best deals to shop for during this black Friday period.

    Amazon Fire TV Stick lite

    Amazon is without a doubt one of the best shopping sites to find the exact item you are looking for. Additionally, as a company, it has produced some of the most innovative items. A quintessence of this is Amazon’s Fire TV. For a couple of years now, they have been producing one of the most powerful streaming hardware items in the market.

    That being said, none of the previous editions of the Fire TV Stick can be labeled as affordable, especially if you take into account the price of other competing brands. However, after the release of the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, you will find no streamer cheaper than this.

    The normal price for the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite is $30. That is already a ridiculously cheap amount, but when you onto it the fact that the Black Friday offers that Best Buy is running place its price a cent shy of $18, you have yourself one of the best deals right now.

    Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – Smart Speaker with Alexa

    The Echo Dot is by far the most popular of the smart speakers in the market today, and that says a lot. Over the last couple of years, the market has been proliferated by these speakers, and thus to stand at the apogee and with little debate state that they are the best is something outstanding.

    The main reason why the speaker has become so popular is the fact that you can simply control it with your voice. This means that you don’t even have to get up to change the song that the speaker is playing, or even adjust the volume it is blasting at. All you have to do is use the voice command.

    Amazon is cutting the price for the Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – Smart Speaker with Alexa by 21 dollars, hence dropping the price from $40 dollars to $19 dollars. That does warrant a spot in the best deals in this year’s Black Friday list.

    Beats by Dr. Dre – BeatsX Wireless Earphones

    Having a nice set of earphones is essential in the modern-day world. Be it for playing music while you are working out, listening to a podcast while relaxing on the couch, or simply canceling out the noise while you take a walk in the park.

    When it comes to earphones or anything to do with sound for that matter, Beats by Dr. Dre will always stand at the zenith, head and shoulders above the competition. Their earphones, in particular, have deluged the whole world with the quality of sound they produce combined with durability and the freedom of being wireless.

    Just some days ago, for these premium earphones, you would have to part with around 100 dollars to acquire them. That being said, Best Buy has somehow managed to cut off more than $60 dollars from the price, ergo meaning for just $40 dollars, you will have some quality earphones that you are sure will not only give you the best musical experience but that they will also last.

    Ninja Mega Kitchen System (BL770) Blender/Food Processor

    Everyone likes a nice, cold smoothie, or a glass of juice. Sometimes this liking turns to a desire, a craving of sorts. To get yourself out of a quandary you know you may fall into, why not get yourself a homemade blender. This way, you will be able to experiment with all sorts of mixtures and concoctions.

    When it comes to blenders, it gets no better than the Ninja Mega Kitchen System (BL770) Blender/Food Processor. As the name suggests, you will have the ability to blend and process food. This blender has a 72-ounce pitcher, one that is capable of crushing ice into snow in just a matter of seconds, hence making it easy to create your smoothies.

    Additionally, it comes with a plethora of processing cups, from the 64-ounce bowl to the two 16-ounce cups, so you will be able to make whatever quantity of juice or smoothies you want at a go.

    Amazon has gone all out on this one. The normal price for the Ninja Mega Kitchen System (BL770) Blender/Food Processor is 260 dollars, but in this Black Friday period, you will be able to get it for $100 dollars less. It is just $160 dollars at the moment.

    Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

    There is nothing better than a nice cup of finely brewed coffee in the morning. It stimulates you, and once you’ve had your share, you will be able to tackle all your tasks throughout the day head-on. The problem is that it is an arduous task to find a coffee place that serves your coffee exactly the same way you want it.

    To solve this conundrum, all you have to do is get yourself a nice coffee maker, and none is nicer than the Keurig – K-Select Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker. Nothing blends machinery, simplicity, functionality, and contouring more than this machine.

    It has a 52-ounce water reservoir, and thus you will be able to blend up to five cups without needing to make a refill. You will also be able to brew different amounts of coffee since it has multiple cup sizes. The control buttons make it simple to use, and thus anyone, regardless of age, will be able to use it.

    From the original price of $130 dollars, Amazon has cut out $20 dollars, so you will be able to get it for $110 dollars. That is a major coup for such a machine, and you will be more than pleased that you bought it.

    Razer – Ornata V2 Wired Gaming Mecha-Membrane Keyboard

    Over the years, gaming has gradually morphed into one of the biggest entities on the planet. Some play professionally, while many play to past time or as a hobby. Irrespective of whichever group you find yourself in, you should always endeavor to have the very best equipment.

    Razer is the bestselling manufacture when it comes to gaming peripherals. A simple look at their Ornata V2 Wired Gaming Mecha-Membrane Keyboard will clearly illustrate why this is the case. The keyboard has been designed ergonomically, so you will be able to feel comfortable even after several hours of gaming, or typing.

    This is a high-performance keyboard, specifically designed to make sure that all your commands receive the necessary feedback.

    The typical price for the Razer – Ornata V2 Wired Gaming Mecha-Membrane Keyboard is around $100 dollars. Amazon is offering the exact same one for ten dollars less.

    Microsoft Surface Laptop 3

    Laptops, and internet-accessible devices in general, have managed to deluge the entire world in their popularity. Nowhere will you go and not find a laptop being used, be it in a supermarket, a restaurant, or even a school.

    Since it is a necessity that you have one, why not get yourself one that not only does the basic but also offers so much more. You’ve probably heard of Microsoft, but you may not have heard of their surface laptop 3 yet.

    The clean contouring used for its design gives it an elegant, chic look, one you will be proud to associate with when you are at your workplace. But this machine isn’t all beauty and no brains. It has an Intel Core i7 processor, meaning that you will be able to run even the most powerful of programs without any fuss.

    All these attributes would be useless without a powerful battery, and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 offers exactly that. You will be able to use the computer for 11 hours straight without needing a recharge. What’s more, the computer has a fast charge, and you will be able to charge 80% of the battery in just an hour.

    Amazon has shaved off $200 dollars from its original price, $1600 dollars, and thus you can get it for just $1400 dollars.

    SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 2TB

    Everybody needs a little more storage in their life. Nothing brings out desperation and despair more than the notification, be it on your phone or on your computer, telling you that you need to delete some items to create a little more storage.

    With the SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 2TB, all that stress ceases to exist. With 2 terabytes worth of storage, you will be able to store everything offline. The icing on this already delicious cake is that it is portable, and thus you can use the data stored in the drive on multiple computers.

    During this Black Friday season, because it isn’t a day anymore, Amazon has cut $120 dollars from the original price of the drive. Thus, you can buy it not for $370 dollars, but for $250 dollars, which is an absolute bargain.

    Panasonic 4K Cinema-Like Video Camera

    Photos and videos are what make memories last. Though almost every single phone right now has a camera, you should nevertheless invest in a nice, quality camera. The Panasonic 4K Cinema-Like Video Camera is all that and then some.

    This camera can record at ultra-sharp 4K ultra HD, the highest resolution in the market right now. What’s more, at 1080p display, you won’t have to wait to do back to your computer to make the edits you want. You can simply do it in-camera.

    Amazon had priced this particular camera at 1000 dollars before, but now you can get it for $202 dollars less, at just $798 dollars. What’s more, for 879 dollars, you will be able to get the camera, a set of BM Premium 2 VW-VBT380 Batteries, and Charger for Panasonic, and the AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag.

    Echo Show 8″ Smart Display

    Photos, like everything else in the world, have gone digital. No more handling negatives and such. As a result, you also need something that will be able to display digital photos. Enter the Echo Show 8″ Smart Display.

    That’s not the only thing this gadget does. In fact, dynamism is its selling point. You can also install your favorite music application, be it Spotify, apple music, or Pandora, and listen to music on it. Additionally, you can also make calls, both video, and audio, on it.

    That isn’t even half of it. You will be able to listen to your favorite audiobooks and podcasts using the Echo Show 8″ Smart Display. This device can also be fully integrated into your life, and you can place it in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom and control it using voice command.

    Amazon, maker of the Echo, sells the product at 130 dollars.  However, you can get the same exact device at a 65-dollar discount on Best Buy, meaning all you have to pay is $65 dollars, half the original cost. That is the magic of Black Friday.

     


  • Gift Guide for Kids!

    Gift Guide for Kids!

    The holiday season is already upon us and before long, it will be time to hand out presents and spend time with family and friends. While everyone has their own favorite thing to enjoy around Christmas and their traditions, one thing that many parents and grandparents enjoy is seeing the joy and excitement on tiny little faces as they open specially picked out presents.

    For many parents and grandparents, picking out the right presents is half of the fun. But finding the right toy for that little boy or little girl on your list is sometimes easier said than done. If you are still scratching your head and looking for the best present for the child in your life, then check out some of the hottest toy trends for Christmas 2020 below!

    1.Itty Bitty Pretty’s Tea Party Teacup Dolls Playset

    When you are shopping for the little girl on your list, nothing is better than dolls, playing, and a tea party! And this little toy will provide all of those and more. In each toy, there are two Itty Bitty Pretty dolls along with all the supplies needed to create the best tea party ever for the whole family. There are also 25 surprises found inside, allowing any little girl the fun and excitement of unwrapping and seeing what comes next. Everything about this toy will spark delight and fun for the little girl in your life. From sparkling stickers to unicorns, dolls, and a fun tea party that you can enjoy all the time, this is the perfect gift to help spark the imagination of that special little girl.

    Price: $30

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    2.Monster Jam, Official Mega Grave Digger All-Terrain Remote Control Monster Truck with Lights

    Shopping for a little boy is sometimes tough. They aren’t into the dolls and frilly things like girls are, but you want to find them something fun and unique. This Monster Jam monster truck is one of the perfect options to add to your list. This is a big monster truck, coming in at over 2-feet long. It is faster, larger, and more powerful compared to the other options by this brand and any little boy can use the dual joystick controller from up to 250 feet away to control the monster truck and play their way.

    There is so much that you can do with this truck. You can overcome any obstacle on and off the road, even with a lightweight design and huge tires that make it easier to use. Instead of purchasing a small monster truck that takes all the fun out and gets broken in no time, consider this Monster Jam Monster Truck and see that little boys’ eyes light up. Just don’t forget the batteries!

    Price: $88

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    3.Disney Frozen Elsa Fashion Doll and Nokk Figure

    Honestly, anything to do with Frozen or Frozen 2 will probably be a big hit with any little girl from your family. This one will bring out the imagination of your little girl, providing Elsa in her magical ice dress from the end of the second movie, and Nokk, the mystical horse who helps her win the day.

    Get ready to see her run around with Elsa and Nokk, exploring the world of Arendelle, singing some of her favorite songs from both Frozen movies, and having a ball.

    Price: $20.69

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    4.Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Grow-the-Fun Garden to Kitchen

    If you are looking for a great present for the toddler in your life, this Laugh and Learn option from Fisher-Price is the perfect option for you. This is a playset with two sides, one being a garden and the other being a kitchen, which comes with learning content, music, colorful lights, and more than 30 pieces to play with. This toy also changes as your baby grows, allowing them to learn manners, how to follow directions, eat healthily, shapes, colors, numbers, and letters all while having a lot of fun.

    When your toddler plays with the garden, they can gather eggs, stir the honey, sort the vegetables and fruits, and plant flowers. In the kitchen, they get to prepare their meals and mix smoothies in a blender! There is so much fun in store with this toy and your child can enjoy it for many years to come, learning while playing.

    Price: $64

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    5.NERF Ultra One Motorized Blaster

    Another great option for the boy in your family is the NERF Ultra Blaster. There are many great options from the NERF Family, but this one is considered the gold standard when it comes to dart blasting. These darts have a speed, accuracy, and distance that are not found with any of the other NERF guns you may have used in the past. For example, these can go up to 120 feet if nothing gets in the way.

    Whether you have one boy in the family who would like to see the power and speed of these darts and can have fun “hunting” and exploring in the backyard, or you want to get one for all the boys in your family and start a NERF war, this is one of the best options out there. It comes with 25 NERF Ultra darts and it is easy to find more when needed. A simple option that will provide lots of fun!

    Price: $50

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    6.Fingerlings: Untamed T-Rex

    While this specific one is designed for little boys, there are some unicorn and pink options that make it a perfect toy for girls as well. This toy can fit on the fingers of your child but is sturdy enough to play around no matter where you go. It is designed to react to touch, motion, and sound and your child can even train the little dinosaur to make it behave. It also makes a lot of different sounds including chomping jaws, wild roars, and more while gripping onto the finger.

    When the child receives this toy, they can bring them to life and then start training them. They even react and work with one another, making it easy to train your Army using the new untamed battle arena app. Whether you have one or many of these, Fingerlings are a lot of fun to play with

    Price: $26.45

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    7.L.O.L. Surprise Bigger Surprise

    L.O.L. Surprise is one of the hottest new trends with these dolls. This box allows so many surprises that it may take days to get through. There are more than 60 never before seen surprises inside this package with exclusive accessories and dolls. If you want to make sure the little girl in your life doesn’t get something they already have, then this is the right option to work.

    In addition to opening up all of the different parts that are inside, little girls can play around and having fun. They can give their dolls many different hairstyles and looks along the way while taking everything along inside the convenient carrying case whenever they need it. With all the surprises inside, this is sure to be a gift that is a hit. There are many other L.O.L. toys on the market as well so this is the perfect gift to add to their collection if the child is already a big fan.

    Price: $89

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    8.Vtech KidiZoom Creator Cam HD Video Kids’ Digital Camera with Green Screen

    This is a great HD camera for any child who wants to learn how to create their videos. It comes with a built-in microphone and many different special effects. Your child can also swap in more than 20 animated backgrounds including becoming invisible, getting chased by a T-Rex, and visiting outers space. This can help enhance the video and photography skills of your child, giving them something fun to do with their creativity.

    This camera has everything that your child will need to make some cool pictures and videos that they want. It is designed to work for children between ages 5 to 10 and has a lot of additional features that make it even more fun. For example, it has a selfie stick, a green screen, and lots of special effects that make it perfect no matter what time of year you decide to give this as a gift.

    Price: $49.44

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    9.LEGO Classic

    There is nothing better for Christmas than some great LEGO’s to get the imagination going and helping you to build something new. There are options available for boys and girls, including the classic LEGOs that require the child to build whatever they want, and some sets with instructions to help the child learn how to follow directions. Both are perfect gifts for your child to enjoy this holiday season.

    No matter the hobby or interest of the child, you are certain to find a Lego option that works for them. Consider things like Star Wars, Harry Potter, Airplanes, Dinosaurs, Princess Castles, and more. LEGO has become a household name and has taken their class blocks to the next level with building sets that work for everyone. Or keep it simple with a classic set that gives the child a chance to use their imagination and build whatever they want.

    Price: $17.59 for a 300-piece classic set

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    10.The Gotrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter

    If you are looking for a gift for an older child on your list, then the Gotrax Scooter is the best option out there. This electric scooter provides all the additional features you would need, including cruise control, a handbrake, and the ability to carry 220 pounds while going 15.5 miles per hour.

    This powerful scooter can go up to 12 miles and only takes 4 hours to recharge. This makes it the perfect option for riding around town or hanging out with friends. The frame will also fold down and lock easily, making it a good option to take out and about as well. Your child can go along with their friends or ride back and forth up the street enjoying this fun electrical scooter.

    Price: $248

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    Summary

    With the holiday season just around the corner, it is time to start looking for the perfect gift for the child in your life. There are so many toy options on the market and choosing the one that will be best for your child can seem like an uphill battle.

    When looking for some of the hottest trends in toys this holiday season, look no further than this list. Whether you have a boy or a girl, someone who likes to make believe, who wants to be out on the go, there is the perfect Christmas gift available!


  • Cyber Security at Home: How to Stay Protected

    Cyber Security at Home: How to Stay Protected

    The most essential transactions these days happen over the internet. However, even though the increasingly connected world makes work easier, we expose most of our personal information to hackers. Hackers have several ways of stealing essential information that is put to misuse. This article has detailed several new tricks that hackers can use to steal your data and the best practices to promote more robust security.

    Latest tricks hackers use today and how to stay safe

    Phishing

    This is a fake email that hackers create that looks legitimate. The primary goal of using email phishing is to steal confidential information such as bank account details and passwords. The email may appear to have originated from the company you work for or your bank. The email tries to create panic or urgency by tricking users into providing their personal information. For instance, you may receive an email from your bank claiming that your ATM is disabled, and you have to confirm your card number for re-activation. Most users fall for the email, which malicious hackers send to have your data.

    How to protect your data

    When you receive a fake email, look for grammatical errors in email addresses or domain names. Hackers also use email addresses that resemble well-known organizations but slightly are altered.

    Also, check if the email has a link. If one is present, hover your mouse on the link and check if the URL matches the link provided in the email.

    Hackers use threats such as your account has been blocked or your security is compromised. Avoid such tricks.

    Malware

    Hackers write this malicious software intending to compromise your home computer cybersecurity to access confidential information. The software can perform functions that include deleting or stealing vital data, tracking the victim’s activities secretly, and modifying the system’s core functionalities. Some factors that lead to malware installation in your system, include running a pirated or older version of an operating system, installing pirated software or clicking on unknown links.

    Some of these malware software’s include:

    • A virus that can infect your software and disable system functionality
    • Trojans that create backdoors in your home computer cybersecurity for hackers to monitor your activities
    • Spyware that hackers design to spy on a user and track everything they do online including your surfing habits, passwords, and credit card numbers.

    How to maintain safety

    • Install legitimate antivirus software.
    • Avoid clicking on fake antivirus pop-ups generated from websites.
    • Avoid downloading fake software
    • Update your operating systems often
    • Avoid downloading pirated software or apps since they may contain malware

    Insecure networks

    Connecting your devices and systems to insecure networks creates an excellent opportunity for hackers to access your files and monitor your online activities. With that, a hacker can steal your bank account password and your social accounts or even inject malware on your trusted sites. With the wide range of programs available on the internet, a hacker can get close to your residence and gain access to your accounting data, passwords, usernames, and critical files. If such in-depth knowledge gets into the wrong hands, it can cause damaging consequences to your business.

    Connecting to free Wi-Fi at the airport or coffee shop is dangerous, especially when carrying out essential activities online, like having private conversations, banking, or browsing your email. The networks are not protected and can give hackers an opportunity in the same region to snoop on you.

    How to protect your data

    Do not connect to open, untrustworthy Wi-Fi networks. Free Wi-Fi may not be safe. When in a hotel or bar with Wi-Fi, do not connect randomly to any open network. Ask the staff which Wi-Fi is safe to connect to. That can minimize the chances of your accounts being hacked.

    Also, avoid accessing any vital information while connected or performing bank transactions. Use strong encryption like WPA2 on your home Wi-Fi router instead of WEP security or Open.

    Physical security threats

    This is threat involves people accessing your devices, such as mobile devices, laptops, and hard drives physically.

    People underestimate physical security threats in favor of technical threats like malware and email phishing. However, physical security threats occur when one can physically gain access to vital information, such as information collected from stolen devices.

    These physical breaches can take place at your home or workplace. For instance, one could access an unattended system that is not protected by a password or get access to your confidential files.

    How to stay safe

    • Use encrypted USBs and computer hard drives when storing confidential information. Avoid writing your passwords on a notepad or post-it.
    • Also, protect your system with a strong password. Avoid leaving your pc or phone unlocked. Ensure that you have proper backup and enable remote wipe services in case you lose your phone.

    Smishing

    This is where a hacker tries to trick you into providing them with your data via either an SMS message or a phone call. This technique is becoming more common and is a growing threat to online security.

    Smishing utilizes elements of social engineering to have you submit your vital data. The hacker earns the user’s trust and gets access to their personal information. The data can be anything from details of your bank account, OTPs, or online password to gain access your accounts. An attacker can use the information for various attacks. Sometimes the SMS messages come with short links with tempting offers and deals. When you click the link, the malware gets installed on your device.

    How to protect your data

    • Avoid sharing your personal information over an SMS or phone call
    • Before clicking links in a message, make sure you verify its identity. If you get a message claiming it is from a person you know and requests for critical data, contact the person using the phone number in your contacts and verify that they have requested the data.

    Malicious mobile apps

    Most people believe that every app available on the Apple Store or Google Playstore is legitimate. However, not every app on these stores is safe. Some apps contain some malicious codes that can jeopardize your privacy.

    A malicious app may have a code snippet that installs on your mobile phone or tablet. The app may also request permissions that may be valuable to hackers in getting your vital information, including your text messages, media, and contacts.

    It is essential to be smart before accepting permissions such as:

    • Accounts access
    • SMS permission
    • Microphone access
    • Contacts
    • Device admin permission

    How to protect your data

    • Before downloading an app from Google Playstore or Apple store, first, check the permissions.
    • Check the app’s reviews and ratings
    • Avoid downloading applications from unknown sources
    • Do not download cracked or pirated apps

    Top 10 vulnerabilities of using the same password

    Password reuse is among serious cybersecurity concerns. Users and administrators can use several ways to increase their password security, but they are often not adopted. Below is how you can ensure vital information in your web application is not compromised because of password reuse.

    The danger of password reuse

    Even with the most secure password, using it on several applications and websites can make it insecure. With the increasing global data breaches, there is a high chance that your password is stored in some applications or sites. Fortunately, some sites do not store passwords in plain text, meaning that the hacker only compromises the password hash in case of a data breach. In that case, a hacker only requires less time to get the password.

    Password manager security

    Most users resort to password managers to deal with password reuse. Most of the password managers are easy to use and cross-platform. That means that one can store their password database in the cloud and access it via a web interface from your mobile phone or PC. Password managers deal with password reuse and can generate unique passwords. However, such passwords can be challenging to remember.

    Length or complexity

    The most common password policy that administrators enforce in web applications, among other systems, is the length and complexity policy. However, the policy is weak.

    A few websites can check how long it can take a hacker to crack their password using a brute-force attack. For instance, if you feed an 8-character password with special characters, upper and lowercase, as well as numbers into the website, it can determine how long it can take to break the password. The sites can guide you on how to increase the complexity of your password.

    Is length enough?

    If the brute-force method is the only password cracking process, password length would be the best way to outdo attacks. However, dictionary attacks can decrypt passwords with commonly used words. A password with similar letters would be a hard nut to crack. If you use fake words that are easy to memorize, you can avoid the dictionary attacks.

    A false sense of security

    Force users to change their passwords regularly to increase your password security. Web applications and other systems use this common mechanism. Such mechanisms store hashes of old passwords, limiting the user to reuse their previous passwords.

    However, this policy introduces a false sense of security since most people only one character at the end, and they keep replacing it after every few months. Therefore, it is better not to implement this mechanism in your web application since it does not prevent dictionary attacks.

    Clear text passwords

    They are passwords stored in configuration files in exact text or passwords that remain visible even after the end-user types them. They are vulnerable to password hacking, be it as configuration files or inputs.

    The passwords pose a threat to password security since they expose the user’s credentials and allow attackers to act as legitimate users to access the accounts.

    Multi-factor Authentication

    Nowadays, the most robust defense against password attacks is the (MFA) multi-factor authentication. The mechanism is also part of most compliance requirements of DSS, PCI among others.

    The common (MFA) method is the one that the web application sends a one-time code SMS to the user’s mobile number. However, hackers compromise such mechanisms using SIM-swap attacks. They trick the mobile operator into providing a duplicate SIM card of the user and use it to get the SMS with a one-time code.

    To avoid that, use one-time-password (OTP) solutions like FreeOTP or Google Authenticator. Mobile apps send a push notification to your phone or send a one-time code generated by the app.

    Password recovery systems

    Applications with systems that allow users to reset or recover their password can also offer hackers the opportunity to access your vital information. The remember, a forgotten password mechanism is a possible way of authenticating a user, but it must be strong.

    Hackers can act as users and attempt to access users’ accounts by trying resetting the password. Applications that depend on security questions like a pet’s name or birthday are insignificant for authentication since attackers can access vital information for users in social networking accounts.

    Hardware tokens

    It is the ultimate security option for MFA. They are now becoming popular, especially the hardware keys. The idea has been in existence for several years and was used by certain software designers to combat piracy. Besides, there are keys one can use for mobile phones and computers. They can use either a wireless one or a physical interface.

    The hardware security mechanisms are now part of regular computing machines like laptops and desktops. Computers have hardware modules that offer encryption technologies. Operating systems like Windows 10 is compatible with the FIDO2 standard. That means that any device with Windows 10 and the hardware module can function as a hardware key. Nowadays, phones come with facial recognition or fingerprint scanners. With all these features and password combinations, one is sure of extra security.

    All passwords matter

    Most web application developers think that when an unprivileged user experiences a password breach, it will not endanger the web application. However, that is not the case. For instance, if a hacker uses SQL injection to a list of password hashes and hacks a user’s password, they can use it to gain access to privileged accounts in the system. The hacker can also get a user’s password via email phishing, social engineering, or malware, which is beyond a web application developer.

    Therefore, the application developer should make sure that users are using secure passwords at all times. You can test for weak passwords or use a password security mechanism in your application.


  • Review: Ready to Switch up Your Mobile Phone Plan?

    Review: Ready to Switch up Your Mobile Phone Plan?

    It is never too soon to think about switching up your mobile data plan. Most carriers update their plans frequently, and the chances are high that you are not getting as much value as you should be from your current plan. Most customers ‘set it and forget it’, when they could be paying less AND getting more value from their service.
     
    Make sure your plan is optimized to your usage habits and data needs. Check out some of the current carriers, plans and features below:

    Overview:

    1. Verizon consistently offers the most reliable coverage out of all the wireless providers.
      • Verizon Get More Unlimited: Best unlimited plan—$90/month
      • Verizon Do More Unlimited: Best coverage phone plan—$80/month
    2. Visible Wireless has made a big play in the prepaid wireless space with unlimited plan that costs $40 a month. Large discounts are also available when additional lines are added to a family plan.
      • Visible Wireless: Best prepaid plan—$40/month
      • Visible Wireless: Best family plan—$100/month for 4 lines
    3. Metro by T-Mobile currently offers the best value for family prepaid plans.
      • Metro by T-Mobile $50 Unlimited Plan: Best prepaid family plan—$90/month for 3 lines


    Summary: 

    Best overall mobile plan: The Verizon Do More Unlimited plan offers everything. With amazing coverage, speed plus HD streaming and 22 GB of 4G LTE data each month, it was an easy pick for best mobile phone plan overall.

    Best prepaid plan: When it comes to prepaid- Visible wireless offers unlimited features and services on the best network for $40 a month. All of it combines for great value. However, be mindful of data slowing down over time, which has been reported by some users.

    Best prepaid family plan:  You will spend $50 a month if you choose Metro by T-Mobile unlimited plan. However, your costs are reduced to $30 a month for every additional line you add. The more people you have in your family- the better the savings.

    Best family plan:  Visible wireless is great for family plans because of the large discount when multiple lines are added. You cost can be reduced to $25 a line for unlimited data with enough people on the plan

    Best unlimited plan: The Verizon Get More unlimited plan offers 75 GB of data and comes with 5G data access and HD streaming. It’s expensive, but you get what you pay for.

    So when was the last time you reviewed your plan and usage to ensure you’re getting the best value? There’s no time like the present~ Check into it!