Tag: Electronics

Looking to Upgrade your Car Stereo? Check Out Some of Our Picks

No one likes to ride in a silent car! If you’re looking to upgrade your car from its factory stereo to one with awesome new features, look no further! We’ve got a quick list of some of the best stereos out there. Now you can ride in style with a cool car stereo!

Sony MEX-GS600BT

If you want to connect your phone to your car stereo via Bluetooth, this stereo is great. Complete with an app remote that lets you change inputs quickly, this Sony stereo is pretty handy. The MEX allows for a lot of cool functionality, like hands-free Bluetooth calling and wireless music streaming.

If you’re in an older car and want to significantly upgrade the amount of tech at play, consider this stereo. Complete with USB and auxiliary inputs, the Sony MEX offers a lot of flexibility for users. It even sports a CD player, so if you’re still hanging on to some old discs, you can listen to them on the go! The best part about this stereo is the price, retailing for around $200.

Pioneer DEH-X9500BHS

A solid car stereo, this entry in the Pioneer DEH line is great for those who love HD Radio. It has HD decoding enabled right away, so you don’t need to do anything fancy to enable that functionality! Additionally, it functions with Sirius XM radio and even Pandora internet radio.

This Pioneer also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream your music wirelessly from your phone. You can, of course, use all the normal radio frequencies and CDs for tunes as well. This is a really solid pick for anyone looking for a nice, user-friendly stereo. This one is a little more expensive than the Sony, though, retailing for $300.

Our Favorite Car Stereo: Pioneer AVIC-Z130BTT

The Pioneer AVIC is a really impressive stereo. Featuring a big, gorgeous screen and tons of functionality, this is definitely a premium stereo. GPS navigation is awesome on the big screen, and hands-free calling works great with voice activation. Additionally, when you have an iPhone connected, you can use voice controls to call up music. This functionality is reminiscent of digital assistants like Alexa and Siri, and it works great here.

If you’re looking for a premium car stereo to synch with your phone and make navigating easy, this entry in the AVIC line is for you! It is somewhat expensive, though, retailing for around $1,500. This one is definitely a luxury buy, but if you’re looking to upgrade your car with the best, this is it.

May 25, 2018
Wearable Tech: Which Tech Items are Must-Haves?

The hot new trend of wearable tech has gotten a ton of traction lately. Apple Watch, FitBit and countless others have made wearables hot-ticket items. They’re stylish, functional and cool all at once. Which ones are our favorites? Which ones are must-haves? Check out our roundup of the coolest wearable tech out right now!

Rocket Skates

Oh yes, these are real. Sort of like a combination of Heelies and an electric scooter, these sci-fi action-hero shoes can propel you at up to 12 mph. That’s super impressive for being shoes with wheels. These cool shoes also come with a phone app to track your route, mileage and battery.

These aren’t easy to use, to be sure, but if you’re looking to turn heads and jet around on freaking rocket skates, these are awesome. Just be careful not to crash into any walls or anything.

Lenovo Vibe Band

At least one smart watch had to make the list! The Lenovo Vibe Band is a stylish little device. Sporting a unique e-ink display, the Vibe looks great in direct sunlight and has a discreet display. It functions as a fitness and sleep tracker and does it all with 7 days of battery life.

Even better, the Vibe Band is priced under $100, giving you a ton of features without having to pay Apple Watch or Android Wear prices.

Bio Sport Smart Ear Buds

These ear buds double as biometric sensors and fitness trackers. Pretty neat, huh? They have great sound quality thrown in, too, which is always a plus for working out! These neat little ear buds can be tossed in a bag and stored easily, and they appear very discreet when in-ear. If you want a fitness tracker but don’t like wrist-mounted devices that get in the way or draw attention to themselves, then the Bio Sport Smarts are for you!

The Coolest Wearble Tech Device: Nixie

This incredibly cool little drone wraps around your wrist like a watch when not in use. When you command it, however, it unfolds and takes off. It can then snap pictures, usually selfies, before swooping back down to your wrist. It looks like something Tony Stark would have and it is amazing.

While it might not be the most useful wearable in the world, it tops this list for just being so cool. It’s just incredibly impressive to see it unfold, take off, and do its thing before landing back where it started. This one is still in development, so it won’t be available just yet. Hopefully it’ll get a full release soon!

May 21, 2018
Smart TV Roundup: Which One is Right for You?

Everyone needs to park it on the couch and watch some TV sometimes. After a long day, there’s nothing better than surfing some Netflix or Hulu and enjoying a nice show. Which Smart TV should you consider though? There’s just so many options out there! To help you narrow it down, here’s our favorite smart TVs rounded up!

Sony A1 OLED TV

Sony’s ultra-premium smart TV is a little pricey, depending on where you get it, running somewhere between $3,000-$4,000. But don’t let that scare you from checking it out! Sporting an amazing picture quality and a really stunning form factor, this TV makes an awesome centerpiece to a room.

This 65″ TV boasts all the awesome processing and features you expect from Sony. The picture quality never stutters or suffers under high framerate programming. This TV even incorporates Google Assistant or Alexa support for voice control! If you’re looking for one of the very best and don’t mind spending a bit of money, you’re looking for the Sony A1 OLED.

LG SIGNATURE OLED 65W7P W7

If you’re looking for something that looks absolutely bananas on your wall and impresses everyone, you’re looking for this. LG’s Signature OLED is a “wallpaper” style display, coming in at a positively unbelievable 2.57mm thick. You read that right. It is downright hard to fathom just how thin this screen is.

Even better than the eye-popping form factor of this LG is the picture quality. There is no TV on the market with a better display than this, full stop. That LG managed to make this display so powerful and thin at the same time is a testament to their pedigree. It’s not all magic, though: the TV comes included with a required sound bar. The sound bar is actually the processor for the TV, allowing the display to be as thin as it is. All said, this is quite an impressive TV, but it will cost you: $8,000 MSRP definitely stings.

Our Favorite Smart TV: SAMSUNG Q9F 4K QLED TV

The QLED line of TVs is just awesome. There’s no better word for them. If you’re looking for the best all-around TV for the price, this is our pick. Operating on the Tizen operating system, the QLED line is easy and accessible to use. The TV boasts great black values, bright colors and sharp images.

This TV is seriously smart, too, it’s not just in the name. It automatically detects connected devices and relabels inputs in the menu system. It programs the remote control according to connected devices. It’s really just impressive, easy-to-use and awesome technology. Couple that with the razor-thin connection cable and ability to mount the screen flush with the wall and it’s no wonder this is our favorite!

May 17, 2018
TV Shows that Depict Technology Accurately

Not everyone cares as much about technology as I do, which is fair. I’m kind of a nerd. But you know when you watch a movie or TV show and see something that just doesn’t… work? It just doesn’t work that way, guys! You can’t “enhance” footage from a CCTV camera! That’s not how recording technology works!

Alright, I’m good, I swear. With that, let’s introduce our favorite TV shows that get tech right.

Sherlock

This show is fantastic, for one thing. It’s engaging and smart and fast-paced, keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat. Story beats are often depicted through text messages, as is common in modern tales. Sherlock pioneered a visual technique that makes these texts flow beautifully in the action.

In Sherlock, texts appear as floating, stylish words onscreen near the characters reading them. This more accurately represents what it feels like in the moment when you’re reading your phone. By using this technique, Sherlock smartly sidesteps a common pitfall of TV set in modern day: how do you depict smart phone interfaces on screen?

Black Mirror

This show’s whole premise is how terrifyingly likely its scenarios are. Black Mirror is a modern blend of the Twilight Zone and cautionary sci-fi tales of the 50’s. Episodes meditate on the potential fallout of technological advances. One episode presents perfect recall through recording software embedded in your eyeballs. Another imagines a world where everyone has a social rating like a credit score displayed for all to see.

The anthology-like presentation and believable technology make Black Mirror a scary peek into our own potential future. Without the believable, down-to-earth technology, the show wouldn’t work on as many levels as it does.

Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is a very goofy show about some very goofy software developers. Depicting the ins and outs of an internet start-up, Silicon Valley does a great job of accurately depicting the lives of programmers. From the accurate depictions of Silicon Valley offices to the types of desks and computers developers use, the show is certainly on the nose.

This is no surprise however. The show was created by Mike Judge, who also created King of the Hill and Office Space. Judge has also been part of an internet start-up himself, so he knows the source material personally. This lends the show a “real”-ness that ups the credibility of its technology–and its laughs.

Our Favorite Depiction of Technology on TV: Mr. Robot

The phenomenal and believable hacking on Mr. Robot comes courtesy of love and care from the show’s producer. Kor Adana, once a cyber security specialist, helps advise on the show. Adana uses knowledge from his previous vocation and ample consultation with real hackers to make the show believable.

On screen command prompts and use of actual technology help ground the show. The believable hacking and tech make the show that much more engaging, lending it credibility. This makes Mr. Robot as close as we’re likely to get to a televised version of Neuromancer.

May 17, 2018
iPhone X vs Galaxy S9 Plus
It seems like smartphones are always improving and new versions are constantly coming out.
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There are so many options out there and it can be hard to decide on which one is really the best. Below is a comparison of the two most popular smartphone brand’s latest and greatest, Apple iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus.

Apple iPhone X: $999+

iPhone is always a top pick when it comes to smartphones. The latest version is a creation to celebrate iPhone’s tenth anniversary. It is almost a whole new phone, not to mention the most expensive phone ever on the market to date. The major difference everyone is intrigued about in this exclusive new phone, is that Apple has taken away the home button and switched to a face identification feature. Rather than a touch identification to unlock your iPhone, this phone will use a 3D face map to identify you and unlock your phone.

A few more things to note about this phone:
- The front and back are glass- so you will definitely want to invest in a protective case.
- This iPhone supports wireless charging.
- Like all previous iPhones, the iPhone X also comes with a single nano-SIM card slot.
- The camera placement is vertical rather than horizontal. Both camera sensors get optical image stabilization.
- There is not a headphone jack, so wireless headphones or an adaptor would be needed.
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Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus: $839.99+

Another popular choice when it comes to choosing a smartphone, the Galaxy S9 Plus has some great updates. It is pretty similar to last year’s S8 Plus…but the main improvements are the cameras and the large screen. The camera take quality photos thanks to the low-light and noise-defeating powers that take this smartphone to the next level. Not only is the new screen bigger, the curved display now takes up 90% of the front of the phone.

A few more things to note about this phone:
- The fingerprint sensor has been better-placed and now is aligned in the center on the back of the phone.
- Wireless charging is an option with this glass phone.
- This phone features face unlock and iris scanning.
- Lack of a headphone jack is not an issue with this phone, plug them in!
- The stereo speakers on this phone are outstanding and loud.
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The Bottom Line

It all boils down to pricing and preference seeing as both phones have very similar new features. Both phones have a facial identification feature, wireless charging is an option, outstanding cameras and loud, quality speakers. The main differences are the iPhone no longer has a touch identification and you are not able to plug in your headphones directly to the phone. Whichever phone you choose, you’ll be sure to love your new smartphone!
March 29, 2018
5 “Smart Home” gadgets every house should have…

It’s 2018 folks, and the future is here. Astronauts are driving Tesla’s through space and the Reese’s company is doing some really innovative stuff with popcorn. With all this technology around us, it’s easy to take it all for granted and we sometimes don’t get all the use we can out of it and take advantage of smart home gadgets.

And the most important place you can use all this cool tech to your advantage is right in your very own home. Here are some amazing new smart home gadgets to make your life easier…

1. The iRobot Roomba

Ever since it’s inception in 2002, the Roomba vacuum has been an integral piece of smart home tech. With the ability to program this round robot to vacuum your home 7 days a week it can be a real time saver. With the latest 980 Model, the Roomba is more advanced that ever. With cutting edge mapping technology and dirt detection programs, this “set it and forget it” vacuum is a must have! For dog or pet owners life myself, I can stress it’s value enough. I have a lot on my plate and one thing I don’t to concern myself with is the daily sweeping thank to “Roger the Roomba”. Yes I named my Roomba, he’s family, folks. Word of advice…there are several competitors is the robot vacuum department, do yourself a favor and stick with the iRobot Roomba. You may a little more, but in this case “you get what you pay for”. This was been probably the best $900.00 I’ve ever spent.

2. The Nest Thermostat

Coming in at a price tag of $279.00, the Nest Thermostat is well worth the extra cost. Thanks to it’s smart and adaptive AI, the Nest knows when your home and learns your work schedule to monitor the A/C usage. You can also control the thermostat right form your Nest App on your mobile device to fine tune your A/C needs. For a native Floridan like myself, A/C usage and consumption is a real beast you have to tame. In the summer months, electric bills can soar thanks to primitive thermostats. There is nothing like a thermostat shutting down for the day knowing your at work, and then turn on a half hour before you get home so you don’t walk into a hot and muggy house. It’s just bliss. Once I had installed the Nest, I noticed an immediate 50% drop in my A/C consumption and a large drop in my electric bill respectively. This is a must have in your home.

3. Brilliant Light Switch

With the ability to control your homes, light, music, ambiance, and even take pictures with voice commands, the Brilliant light switch is a 2018 must have gadget for your home. Brilliant light switch also connects to several of your home’s smart gadgets such as Nest, Alexa, Sonos Speaker, Ring doorbell system, and more. Starting at $200.00 per panel, Brilliant Switch is a costly addition but this innovative new gadget gives your home a brain.

4. Amazon Echo and Echo Dot

This smart home “must” is quickly finding it’s way into every home, world wide. Alexa and Echo Dot, is a voice-controlled system that used to play music, make calls, send and receive messages, read the news, set alarms, and even order and Uber or takeout! With the capability of syncing up to Amazon-Fire, Apple Music, Audible, Pandora, and more, you easily find usage and justification for this piece of smart tech in your home. At a price tag of $150.00, the Amazon Echo has many uses to help in your home and is a fantastic smart home gadget. Word to the wise, Alexa has a built in microphone for consumer purposes that is ALWAYS LISTENING…Use responsibly.

5. The Ring II doorbell system

The Ring Video Doorbell, provides you with the capability to see who is at your door from the safety and comfort of your bed or couch. It lets you accept or deny visitor calls if you’re not home, and uses motion detection to alert you of activity on your doorstep even when the bell hasn’t been rung. By working off your home’s Wifi and mobile data, the 1080HD camera will alert your smart phone of any activity at your door step day or night. For an extra $3.00 a month, you can pay for cloud storage and have all moments video recorded for later purposes if desired. The newest model also has a 2 way intercom system, and infrared night vision. For that extra bit of security at a relatively inexpensive cost of $199.00, this doorbell is the must have for any smart home.

The Conclusion

With so many smart gadgets available, some better than others, these products can make our homes better, safer, and more convenient. 2018 is going to be a big tech year and the “smart home” business is growing evermore advanced daily. If you can pick-up just one of these items this year, you’ll be headed in the right direction. I’m still anxiously awaiting the release for Rosie the robot maid, but I may have to hold my breath for awhile.

February 10, 2018
Sony’s “Robo-Puppy” is Back!
Initial thoughts
- Highly advanced puppy AI
- Adorable movements, and physical cues
- Extreme price tag
LAS VEGAS- At the 2018 CES convention Sony unveiled Aibo, the world’s most adorable robot-puppy. The world has seen Aibo in the past, but Sony has re-imagined and reanimated the once stiff “robo-puppy”, and he’s melting hearts.

Let’s Meet Aibo

You remember seeing Aibo years ago at the old KB Toys store doing binary back-flips for attention but to no avail. Well in 2017 Aibo was brought back to life by Sony and he’s actually pretty great! At first glance, you see the initial robust face lift Aibo has, along with the new OLED eye displays he comes equipped with. Aibo’s movements are shockingly fluid and his his facial impressions are full of emotion. What gives Aibo his life-like movement is the 3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerator system, along with three facial sensors to give him those darling facial cues. Aibo has a total of 4,000 parts and 22 moving actuators, which is what makes his movements so impressive. At the 2018 CES, Aibo was slow to respond to some of the voice commands, but usually processed within 10 seconds. Regardless, this pup can boogie around, and do so with a very high cute factor.

That’s right, He Needs Training!

Aibo’s new AI system is a whole other animal in itself (Pun intended). Aibo is able to sit, stay, shake, and even cutely responds to head scratches. Aibo is also programmed with learning AI capability so the more time you spend with him, the more he learns about his master. Aibo also will respond to training! Sony’s new hook for Aibo is that you will have to train it through voice commands and positive reinforcement, just like you do a real dog. Aibo has the ability to mimic a real puppy due to the series of sensors and cameras he has which help him to understand both his environment and your interactions.

This little pup is built with three touch sensors (one on the back, one on the top of the head and another under the chin), two cameras image recognition and area mapping, one Time of Flight sensor for proximity detection, a special sensor to detect your presence from behind, four microphones and a motion detector. Aibo even comes with a little pink plastic ball which he can fetch! Dawwww.

The Cost…Wowsers!

At a whopping $2,000.00 this is one expensive thoroughbred! On top of the initial $2,000.00 users pay a monthly $26.00 for the Aibo services. Those services include continual software updates and cloud storage to help Aibo retain, learn, and grow. To most, that cost is way too high for what is essentially a toy, but other’s might see it a small price to pay for what is a very advanced and innovated pet. Right now Aibo recognizes English and Japanese, but other language will be added in the near future. Like most new tech, the cost for Aibo will likely drop over time but for now, get out your wallets!

The Upside
- Sony has made incredible advances in Aibo’s robotics and it’s very impressive
- The learning AI will keep Aibo relevant in your home.
- Because of Aibo’s AI structure, the capacity to fall in love with a robot is REAL…
The Down
- The high price tag obviously. Paying $2,000.00 plus $26.00 monthly is not very realistic for the average consumer.
- Aibo still has a lot of glaring robotic issues to address before major release.
- Not a lot of aesthetic options to make Aibo’s exterior to your liking. Just the plain “cold steel” look for now
The Solutions

If Sony can make Aibo a much more affordable ‘Robo-puppy” and really tap into the pesonalization of Aibo’s exterior, it could really be a home-run for Sony. Aibo’s movements, responses, and emotions seem genuine…yes that kinda of terrifying, but also incredible at the same time. Once the kinks are worked out, I feel Aibo could really offer someone emotional and physical companionship on a very real level.
February 10, 2018