Pocket-lint - Hardware

Best Android tablets 2023: Expert tested and reviewed

Christina Darby — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:01:28 GMT

Housing power and productivity in a sleek slab, tablets are great for work, creative, and entertainment needs. And with the right accessories, you could even convert your tablet into a 2-in-1 touchscreen laptop.

Best mice for Mac 2023: Precise pointers at every price

Saeed Wazir — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:47:13 GMT

These days, most mice work on PC and Mac, including most gaming models, so buyers are spoilt for choice. That said, the best mice for Mac go the extra mile with Apple-compatible software and white and silver colour schemes to match your MacBook or iMac. There are so many options available, so you're bound to find one that suits your needs, whether you're looking for a premium option for business or something budget-friendly you can toss into your laptop bag to use in a pinch.

Best Bose Soundbars: Expert recommended

Andre Revilla — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 18:30:28 GMT

Whether for the casual enjoyment of your favorite tunes or a more focused home theatre setup, a Bose soundbar makes for an excellent addition to any home. We've done the research to find the best Bose soundbars to help take your listening experience to the next level. We'll be exploring what makes a good soundbar, when a soundbar is the right choice for your setup, and how to know which one is right for you.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar employs AI to help you actually hear what people say on TV

Oliver Haslam — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:15:14 GMT

It isn't just you. TV shows and movies are making it harder and harder to actually hear what people are saying and it's infuriating. Some of us have taken to watching with the subtitles turned on even though our hearing is just fine. At least, it is until we sit down to watch the latest blockbuster. That's something Bose has also noticed, so its new Smart Ultra Soundbar is here to help.

How to play Spotify directly from your HomePod

Adam Davidson — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 13:01:29 GMT

Spotify and Apple are never going to be the best of friends. The two biggest music streaming services on the planet understandably don't want to give a direct rival any noticeable advantage, and whilst that's great for their bottom line, it's not always so good for consumers.

The Yeedi Cube: Your gateway to effortless cleaning, now with $100 off

Kristen Hilderman — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:35:28 GMT

Robot vacuums have come a long way, from zigzagging randomly across rooms and dying out under furniture, to mapping out entire houses and self-cleaning. For the ultimate robot cleaner with all the cutting-edge conveniences that you would expect in 2023, check out the Yeedi Cube. This all-in-one hybrid robot vacuum can mop, self-empty, self-clean, and self-dry.

Alexa's massive new AI upgrade puts it even further ahead of Siri and Google Assistant in the smart home

Chris Hall — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:16:34 GMT

Alexa is one of the original and best digital assistants. Launched to support Amazon devices, Alexa is best known for interactions through the Echo speakers and, as such, has become a cornerstone of the smart home for many. The language used around digital assistants is evolving, with companies now talking more openly about artificial intelligence rather than softer terms of reference that might once have been used.

Copilot AI comes to Windows 11 on 26 September - and this is what it'll do

Max Freeman-Mills — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:05:27 GMT

Windows 11's next big update finally has a date - it'll arrive on 26 September 2023, so there's not long to wait. This update is a big one, too, bringing with it the long-awaited arrival of Copilot AI.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 offers a speed boost and not much else

Luke Baker — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:17:15 GMT

Microsoft has announced a new version of its most affordable laptop as part of its fall 2023 hardware event. Meet the Surface Laptop Go 3.

Microsoft's Surface Laptop Studio 2 might be powerful enough to justify its price this time

Dave LeClair — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:12:36 GMT

Microsoft held its big September Surface event, announcing a brand new Surface Laptop Studio 2. The convertible laptop is much more powerful than its predecessor, thus doing a better job of justifying the high price tag. It's still a rather expensive piece of tech, but the better chip option and improved screen do a little more to generate interest.

What is Alexa Map View and how can I get it?

Adam Davidson — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:31:29 GMT

Alexa is one of the most popular ways to control smart home devices in your home. Hundreds of thousands of smart devices are compatible with Alexa, which means you can control your devices with just your voice using an Echo smart speaker.

Best smart pill dispenser 2023: Track your tablets on a tablet

Adam Davidson — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:59:14 GMT

If you have to take medication on a daily basis, it can be all too easy to forget. Missing your medication isn't just a nuisance; it can potentially have a harmful impact on your health. Pill boxes with daily compartments are useful for knowing that you've taken the right pills on the right day, but they can't tell you when you need to take them.

What is Amazon Echo Hub and what can it do for your smart home?

Adam Davidson — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:00:28 GMT

To control your smart home devices without having to wade through hundreds of different apps, you need a smart home hub. A smart home hub allows you to control all of your connected smart home kits from one place, making controlling your smart home a whole lot easier.

What is Alexa Let's Chat, how does it work and how do I get it?

Adam Davidson — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 22:00:29 GMT

Alexa is one of the most popular voice assistants on the planet, and whilst she's very good at understanding commands or questions, she's not the greatest conversationalist on the planet. All of that is about to change, however, thanks to a new feature called Alexa Let's Chat.

I played with the Echo Hub and it's exactly what the Alexa smart home needs

Chris Hall — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 21:20:14 GMT

I've been building a smart home around Alexa for many years. While some have been asking whether Matter matters, watching Apple trying to get HomeKit off the ground, and every smart home brand trying to diversify and become a whole-home solution, Alexa has been building bridges and solving problems to make the modern smart home work.

All the new devices Amazon announced and how to pre-order them

Dave LeClair — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 21:06:09 GMT

Hot on the heels of Apple's September hardware event, Amazon took to the stage to announce several new devices of its own. While the main focus was smart home gadgets, Amazon also announced tablets, wearables, and more. If you're an Amazon device user, there was almost certainly something for you. Here's everything the company announced along with when and how you can buy them for yourself.

Alexa Map View is only going to be available on iPhone - and even not all iPhones

Chris Hall — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:44:49 GMT

At its September Devices and Services event, Amazon announced a sweeping range of updates across Fire TV, Echo and of course Alexa. Looking to dominate the smart home space, one of the new solutions is called Map View. It's designed to give you a layout map for your home, with all your devices on it, so you can see where they are, rather than them just being listed as grouped into a particular room.

Power up three devices at once with this $43 Anker charger

Gabriela Vatu — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:39:49 GMT

This Anker USB-C charger is super compact, so it will save you space in your laptop bag. Plus, since the plugs are foldable, they won't snag on cables and fabric in your bag. It's the perfect choice of wall charger to use with your MacBook, your brand new USB-C iPhone 15, or the latest Galaxy phone.

Best Weird Tech: 7 unique products for fun or function

Alex Williams — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:30:31 GMT

From the new Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro series to the Echo Show 8 that just debuted, which features the same familiar form factor but with an evolved home screen, modern tech innovations opt for refining practical usage. While honing in on use-case is helpful, and those small differences add up, there's rarely conversation surrounding tech that is both useful and wildly creative. Taking a break from the mainstream influx of "tech-tober" hardware, we compiled a list of the best funky tech we've seen that's unique and niche in form-factor and user experience.

Amazon's new Echo Hub aims to control your entire smart home

Dave LeClair — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:09:30 GMT

Amazon already controls a substantial amount of many people's smart homes. Now, the company is rolling out an Echo Hub device designed to control every aspect of your home. It's a control panel that looks like something Tony Stark would use to control his home.

Amazon's Echo Frames get a spec bump and a style upgrade from Carrera

Luke Baker — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:31:26 GMT

Amazon has announced its new lineup of Alexa-compatible smart glasses, along with two designs from the eyewear experts at Carrera. In total, there's seven styles in the new range, and they're quite varied, so there's likely something that fits your taste in the lineup.

New Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K dongles get Wi-Fi 6/6E, faster processing and an ambient mode

Cam Bunton — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:25:34 GMT

Amazon - along with a swathe of other new hardware and software products - launched two new versions of its popular Fire TV Stick, delivering even better performance than before at a very accessible price.

Amazon's new Echo Show 8 features better sound and a smarter home screen

Dave LeClair — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:46:53 GMT

Amazon started its September hardware event by announcing a new version of the Echo Show 8. The new smart display makes some intelligent upgrades over the previous version, including better speakers, a relocated camera, and a smart home screen that adapts to the user.

How to watch Amazon Prime Video on TV: Your complete guide

Chris Hall — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 22:00:53 GMT

Amazon's streaming service Amazon Video - or Amazon Prime Video - is the main global rival to Netflix, and like its peer it offers TV shows and movies to watch instantly on an internet-connected device.

Best iPhone charger stands

Adam Davidson — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 21:30:54 GMT

Wireless charging along with iPhone's MagSafe has made topping up your phone battery all the more convenient. Instead of struggling to get your charging cable into the port, you can just place your iPhone on a wireless charger and watch your battery percentage climb, especially now with the iPhone 15 and second iteration of the AirPods Pro 2, switching from a lightning to USB-C charging port. One downside of many wireless chargers, however, is that you have to place your iPhone face up on a flat surface, meaning you can only see the screen properly from directly above.

Best solar powered speakers 2023: Never run out of music

Saeed Wazir — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:21:27 GMT

Renewable energy is a way to conserve the planet for future generations, and these days, everything from the best outdoor smartwatches to the best motion lights uses solar technology to reduce electricity use. Audio fans aren't left out, and the best solar-powered speakers extend your listening enjoyment while incorporating handy features like Bluetooth connectivity and LED lighting. Best of all, they don't need power sockets to charge, making them excellent handy for spending a day at the beach or in the woods without electricity.

The Ugreen Nexode RG chargers let you charge your device quickly anytime, anywhere

Jack Ryan — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 08:00:28 GMT

When you need to charge your device, you need it fast. Whether that means you're out and about and your phone's just died, you need to keep multiple devices going at once, or need a charger that can keep up the draw on your gaming console, Ugreen has the solution for you.

Best smart Air Purifier 2023: Let's clear the air

Adam Davidson — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 19:30:29 GMT

According to the World Health Organisation, indoor air pollution was responsible for around 3.2 million deaths in 2020. Whilst the majority of these deaths were due to cooking on open fires or inefficient stoves, air pollution is a problem in all almost every household on the planet, with common househould items such as cleaning products or paint omitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to health.

The best smart TVs 2023: Top picks from LG, Roku, and more

Rebecca Isaacs — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:01:37 GMT

Most smart TVs offer built-in TV channels, ambient modes, and more, making them the ultimate entertainment hub. With features like scheduling assistance, cloud gaming, and other perks like voice control, the best smart TVs not only offer beautiful displays, but create a balance for your home, making life easier. However, each smart TV offers a specific ecosystem, with custom perks and quirks. To help you decide which features and system is best for you, I've compiled a list of the best smart TVs I've tested, used, and written about, starting with my current obsession, the LG G3 OLED evo.

Best Roku TV 2023: Flatscreen hardware to pair with your streaming stick

Andre Revilla — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:00:28 GMT

A quality television remains the focal point of a comprehensive entertainment set-up, as a communal space to watch the big game, latest blockbuster, or stream live events. Browsing for content while cozied up on the couch has never been simpler with todays streaming sticks and smart TVs, and among the best of these streaming devices is Roku. While the company offers its own collection of sticks and boxes to compete with the best of them, Roku has partnering with a variety of television manufacturers to support a collection of gorgeous flat screens with Roku's streaming aggregator built-in. And more recently, Roku even decided to enter the market themselves with their own line of Roku-enabled TVs.

Alexa Bluetooth: How to use your Amazon Echo as a Bluetooth speaker

Cam Bunton — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:30:27 GMT

The years before smart speakers seem like a distant memory now. Amazon Echo - for a lot of people - has become the default way to listen to music, and that means the days of manually pairing to a battery-powered Bluetooth speaker are long behind us.

Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days event is officially set to kick off on October 10

Dave LeClair — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 09:08:18 GMT

Amazon doesn't want you to wait until Black Friday for deals. The company is launching a new event called Prime Big Deal Days, which is designed to offer similar deals to the existing Prime Day and Black Friday purchasing events, but in October. The shopping giant has revealed the official dates for the new shopping event as October 10 and 11, 2023. If you're in the market for new gadgets, this is the day you've been waiting for, as you can get great stuff at a huge discount.

Best action cameras in 2023

Luke Baker — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 15:00:27 GMT

Action cameras are a great invention, rugged enough to tackle the elements but small enough to slide into your pocket.

Best portable fans 2023

Max Freeman-Mills — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 15:30:27 GMT

Whether you need a portable battery fan for camping, working outdoors or simply because you don't have a power outlet where you need it, there are plenty of different options to consider.

Best gaming keyboards 2023: Expert tested and reviewed

Adrian Willings — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 12:00:29 GMT

Keyboards are a personal preference, and gaming keyboards are equally so. A good quality gaming keyboard can make all the difference when you're in the heat of battle.

What to expect from Amazon's September 2023 devices event

Chris Hall — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 10:31:18 GMT

Big tech launches are predictable. We've just seen the biggest tech launch of the year - the Apple September event - and that yielded almost zero surprises. Leaks, predictability, and intuition lead us to accurate conclusions about what will happen. But this year, Amazon looks decidedly different.

Best mechanical keyboards 2023

Saeed Wazir — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 17:09:54 GMT

Why spend hours a day struggling to type on a mushy and imprecise membrane keyboard when there are so many high-quality mechanical options? The best mechanical keyboards aren’t just more comfortable to use. They're also featured in the best gaming keyboards for their responsiveness and consistency and can give you the edge in competitive games when paired with the power of the best gaming laptops.

Microsoft Surface Fall 2023 event: How to watch and what to expect

Luke Baker — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:24:16 GMT

Microsoft holds its annual hardware event around the same time each year, it usually falls in late September or early October, and this year is no different, with the event scheduled for September 21 2023.

The best GoPro 2023: Which should you buy?

Luke Baker — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:30:29 GMT

Smartphone cameras are great, but there are a few situations where they're not ideal. The mostly-glass construction won't take too many hard knocks and while some models offer water resistance, you probably still shouldn't be dropping it in saltwater.

Leaked Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 specs could make this your next notebook

Oliver Haslam — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:20:57 GMT

It might be easy to think that Apple is the only game in town right now with the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro sucking all of the oxygen out of the room. But 2023 still has plenty to give what with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro still on the horizon. But before that, well, there's Microsoft.

TECNO MEGABOOK T1 steals the show at IFA with a sleek design and stellar specs

Kayla Elliott — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:38:20 GMT

Choosing your next laptop can be overwhelming. From the specs to the weight and durability, there are a multitude of factors to consider. The all-new TECNO MEGABOOK T1 is a perfect combination of performance and convenience, coupled with easy portability. This, along with its mid-range price point of $440 makes the MEGABOOK T1 top choice. So much so, it earned The Best of IFA 2023.

HP Spectre Fold is the thinnest and lightest 17-inch 3-in-1 laptop ever

Dave LeClair — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 16:59:17 GMT

HP just announced a new device called the HP Spectre Fold. It's a hulking 17-inch screen that can function as a compact laptop with a second screen, a giant tablet, or a desktop-like computer. It's quite an exciting device that seems incredibly cool. However, that coolness comes with a price, as the HP Spectre Fold is available for pre-order for the wallet-crunching price of $5,000.

Best portable power stations: 5 top picks from Jackery and more

Corey Picaro — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:58:38 GMT

Portable power stations can be game-changers for outdoor adventures or provide peace of mind during power outages. Essentially, these devices are sizable batteries that can power a wide range of equipment, from laptop chargers to household appliances, and even crucial life-saving equipment like CPAP machines.

The best smart home hub 2023: Compare options from Apple, Amazon, and more

Adam Davidson — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 18:00:27 GMT

The variety of smart home tech is almost overwhelming. You can get everything from smart bulbs and smart plugs to smart vacuum cleaners and smart dishwashers. The trouble is most of these products come with their own proprietary apps, meaning you have to keep switching between all the different apps to control them.

Best HP laptops 2023

Saeed Wazir — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 14:07:52 GMT

HP has one of the widest laptop ranges of any brand, encompassing everything from the best Chromebooks for budget-conscious students to the best gaming laptops for those looking for quality visuals and fast response rates, as they dominate in The Witcher 3. Additionally, HP laptops offer a feature suite capable of providing outstanding performance for animators and graphic designers and a compact, lightweight build for those looking to take their laptops on the road.

All the things that Apple didn't announce at its September Wonderlust event

Chris Hall — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:34:43 GMT

Every Apple event is an explosion of excitement, from the first announcement to Tim Cook's final flourish as he summarises what's been announced. But there's always a lot that gets caught in the maelstrom, the rumours, the speculation, the supposition - and that can lead to both a sense of excitement and disappointment about the things that weren't announced.

How to add widgets to your Lock Screen in iPadOS 17

Adam Davidson — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

Apple is all about the widgets these days. There are widgets for your iPhone home screen, widgets for your Mac, and even widgets for your Apple Watch. As an iPhone user, you've even been able to add widgets to your Lock Screen since the release of iOS 16.

Best cheap gaming laptops 2023

Joe Hindy — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 16:16:13 GMT

Did you know that the most expensive consumer-grade gaming laptop available today is the MSI Titan GT77? It can cost as much as $9,000 on Amazon, and it's not even that good of a laptop for most users. When it comes to value, you'll get a much better dollar to performance ratio out of a less expensive gaming laptop. The definition of cheap has changed over the years, but it's mostly understood that a value gaming laptop costs about $1,000 or less these days.

Casio's newest G-Shock watches sport these stunning colourful faces

Oliver Haslam — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:29:19 GMT

Watchmaker Casio has announced four new models of its popular all-metal G-Shock models with each one sporting a new array of colourful faces.

Best record player 2023: Top turntables to spin your vinyl collection

Verity Burns — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 00:41:40 GMT

Whether you've just discovered vinyl and are looking to buy your first turntable or you want to upgrade an older player to get newer features, there are a lot of things to consider when choosing the best record player in 2023.

Best Mesh Wi-Fi Systems and Routers 2023

Max Freeman-Mills — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:30:27 GMT

There's nothing like a Wi-Fi dropout to hit you off your stride. Whether you're midway through a Netflix binge, or you work from home and can't afford to lose connectivity with your office, there's no good time for your network to have a wobble.

Best Bluetooth headphone adapters 2023

Joe Hindy — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 15:05:42 GMT

From headphones to CarPlay, Bluetooth is essentially the standard for pairing and streaming these days. As seamless as it can be, it also makes it incredibly annoying when you want to use Bluetooth on something, and it's unavailable. It happens more often than you'd think, especially while traveling - as most AirPlanes have not kept up with the Bluetooth wave. Plus, with more companies developing high-end Bluetooth headphones in addition to a solid wired headphone line-up, a Bluetooth headphone adapter makes for a great solution.

How to set up package detection on a Ring Video Doorbell

Adam Davidson — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:40:30 GMT

A Ring Video Doorbell is a good deterrent against theft at your home, but unfortunately, it can't stop porch pirates from grabbing packages that have been left outside your front door. What it can do, however, is alert you when a package has been delivered so that you can bring it in or keep an eye on it on your Ring video feed.

The next-gen Chromecast might offer whole new levels of customisability

Oliver Haslam — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 11:56:01 GMT

All of the Google attention might be on the impending release of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, not to mention the likely unveiling of the Pixel Watch 2, but there could be yet more on the horizon as well. Now, it seems that there could be a new version of the popular Chromecast with Google TV product just around the corner.

Best laptop stands 2023: Elevate your working comfort

Max Freeman-Mills — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 14:40:28 GMT

Finding the best laptop stand can be a minefield. Deciding on the right size and features might mean you're looking for something other than just the quality or whether it will be able to hold the weight of heavier Laptops, Chromebooks, and more. But identifying the right laptop stand for you can help save space and help accessibility by simply elevating the onboard keyboard and mousepad for easier use. With more people working from home - or with a hybrid working setup - the demands for the best setup are growing. Here are our picks for the best laptop for every kind of user.

Best UE speaker from Ultimate Ears 2023

Verity Burns — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:01:27 GMT

Ultimate Ears (UE) remain some of the best Bluetooth speakers you can buy. As well as their excellent sound quality, they're well known for their bright and vibrant colour options, not to mention the giant volume buttons that give them their unmistakable look. Popularised for their chucky build and rugged qualities, the UE boom models are known for having some degree of waterproofing, 360-degree sound and delivering meaty bass, regardless of the size.

The best budget tablets 2023

Ian Carlos Campbell — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 18:20:28 GMT

Tablets might not yet be the computer of the future, but they can still capably fill in for a laptop or desktop computer if browsing the web, playing games, and consuming media are the main things you plan on doing. High-end tablets can be pretty expensive if you're not careful, but if your funds are limited, you can get what you need out of a device that costs well below $400.

The GoPro Max 2 has been confirmed and 'will be worth the wait'

Oliver Haslam — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:44:46 GMT

Fans of the popular GoPro Max are about to get a new model to check out and we know that because it's been confirmed by the company itself.

I tried out Dolby Atmos FlexConnect - could this be the end of soundbars?

Verity Burns — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 18:52:31 GMT

As part of TCL's announcement of its frankly mind-boggling X955 Mini LED TV, Dolby released details of Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, a new technology that would be launching with the TV in 2024. I've already had a first listen, and this could be one of the biggest leaps forward in home cinema sound since Atmos first made it into our living rooms a decade ago.

The best AirPlay receivers 2023

Ian Carlos Campbell — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 17:57:52 GMT

An A/V receiver is often the centrepiece of your home theatre, acting as the wired middle-man between your television, speakers, and other audio and video equipment such as turntables, game consoles, Blu-ray players, etc. making for a nice integrated ecosystem. The thing that complicates that utopian, if complex, system from working is getting anything wireless working at the same time.

The Best Smart Locks in 2023

Adam Davidson — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:10:49 GMT

It's no exaggeration to say that your door lock may be some of the oldest technology in your home. We've been using tumbler locks since the times of the ancient Egyptians, and whilst the materials may have changed, the basics are still the same. If you're ready to replace this incredibly old tech with something that's band up to date, then a smart lock is the way to go.

Polaroid is shooting for the moon with a crazy new camera

Max Freeman-Mills — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 13:00:28 GMT

Polaroid has unveiled an absolute stonker of an instant camera - the I-2, which without question takes its place as one of the most advanced instant cameras you can buy right now.

Best Mice for PC 2023: The 5 best option to power your computer

Alex Williams — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:28:20 GMT

Whether you want to max out your workflow or gaming power, a PC mouse is a powerful essential. From wired to Bluetooth options, there are plenty on the market that help you command control over your computer, but it comes down to choosing which model that best suits your budget, wrist, and work habits.

Sonos Move 2 release date, price, features and specs

Britta O'Boyle — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:00:41 GMT

It doesn't feel like all that long ago we were writing about the Sonos Era 100 and Era 300 speakers, which were the latest devices to join the Sonos portfolio. Until now at least. Sonos has announced a second generation of the Sonos Move portable Bluetooth speaker in the Move 2, but what does it offer and how does it change compared to the original?

Sonos Move 2 is all about improvements, except for two things

Britta O'Boyle — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

Sonos has announced the Move 2, which is the successor to what was the company's first Bluetooth speaker. The original Sonos Move was a brilliant speaker - still is, in fact. It offered excellent sound, a great design with an integrated handle, IP56 water and dust resistance and a battery life that lasted around 11 hours. It was the perfect living room-to-garden speaker when it arrived in 2019.

GoPro Hero 12 Black finally adds a feature I've been begging for

Luke Baker — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

GoPro's latest flagship action camera has landed right on schedule, but it's not the camera that some were expecting. Early leaks suggested we'd be seeing a significantly larger display, and potentially a 1-inch sensor, neither of which are present on the Hero 12 Black.

I saw TCL's 5,000 nit X955 Mini LED TV and it may just sway me from OLED

Verity Burns — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:43:02 GMT

On the show floors of IFA 2023, I got to clap eyes on the TCL X955 in the flesh, the brand's newly announced flagship 4K TV. Not only does it have a spec list that blows the rest of the Mini LED TV market out of the water - but it also raises some pretty big questions for OLED too.

The Ultimate Ears Epicboom aims to be the perfect pool party speaker

Max Freeman-Mills — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:01:30 GMT

Ultimate Ears has spotted (and filled) a gap in its own lineup - slotting the new Epicboom speaker in underneath its massive Hyperboom for those looking for a less titanic unit.

Best outdoor smart home cameras 2023

Adam Davidson — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:59:48 GMT

There is a wide range of indoor smart home cameras that can help you to protect your home or keep an eye on kids or pets. Smart home cameras can also be very useful for the outside of your home, too. Not only do outdoor smart home cameras boost your home security by providing a clear deterrent for anyone thinking about breaking into your home, but they also allow you to keep an eye on what's going outside your home, even when you're not there.

Be the life of the party wherever you are with the Bang Max Party Speaker from Tronsmart

Samuel L. Garbett — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:23:22 GMT

Choosing the right Bluetooth speaker can make or break your next party. Thankfully, Tronsmart offers everything you need in a single package with the Tronsmart Bang Max portable party speaker, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the music. But what exactly makes the Bang Max so perfect for your next event?

Rumoured bargain basement MacBook could solve Apple's Chromebook problem

Oliver Haslam — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:18:03 GMT

Apple is reportedly eyeing a new low-cost MacBook that would take the fight to similarly budget-oriented Chromebooks sold by various laptop makers. The new MacBook would sit below the existing MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models in the portable Mac lineup.

TECNO MEGABOOK T1: Affordable performance, portability, and style in one laptop

Samuel L. Garbett — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 11:01:27 GMT

Choosing a laptop that will meet your needs is incredibly important. For those looking for an attractive, sleek, and robust machine that won’t weigh them down, the all-new TECNO MEGABOOK T1 is a great choice. But what is so great about this laptop, and why should you choose it for your setup?

The LG StanbyMe Go is a TV in a suitcase, and I'm a big fan

Verity Burns — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:09:16 GMT

When you spend a lot of time with consumer technology, sometimes it's the slightly more out-there stuff that really grabs your attention. It's a bit like the Honor V Purse or this - the LG StanbyMe Go. No, your eyes do not deceive you - that's a TV that packs away into a suitcase, and as bonkers as it is, I love to see it.

What is Works with Sonos and which devices are compatible?

Britta O'Boyle — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 09:35:27 GMT

Sonos is a multiroom home sound system offering various speakers and soundbars within its portfolio. All Sonos devices link seamlessly with one another over a mesh Wi-Fi network, but Sonos speakers also work with some third-party devices too.

How to set up multi-room audio with Google Home

Max Freeman-Mills — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 20:00:28 GMT

Google's Nest speakers are ideal for anyone looking to set up a proper smart home, with the tightest integration you could imagine with Google Assistant and Google Home.

DJI Mini 4 Pro could be a massive upgrade over the Mini 3 Pro

Cam Bunton — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 14:41:12 GMT

A fresh leak has emerged giving us what appears to be concrete proof that DJI is about to launch the next in its lightweight drone lineup, with a 'Mini' drone that features better obstacle avoidance and higher-quality video than the Mini 3 Pro.

Leaked DJI Pocket 3 fixes one of its predecessors biggest shortcomings

Luke Baker — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:57:15 GMT

I'm a big fan of the DJI Pocket cameras, they provide smooth, physically stabilised 4K footage in a package that can easily slip into your pocket. The last iteration was the DJI Pocket 2, which came in late 2020, and it's been so long that I was beginning to think it might be the last DJI Pocket camera.

This mysterious new OnePlus tablet might be a budget marvel

Oliver Haslam — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 11:23:17 GMT

When it comes to tablets it's still difficult for some to look beyond Apple and the iPad, but there are more and more Android-powered options coming to the market all the time. Now, it appears that OnePlus is working towards releasing a budget offering to join the existing OnePlus Pad.

Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh: How the 'Just walk out' tech works

Elyse Betters Picaro — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 17:30:27 GMT

It's now been a few years since Amazon first opened up one of its physical Amazon Go convenience stores, and there are now locations all over the US and in London.

Best of IFA 2023: The best tech from the show floor

Chris Hall — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 16:45:28 GMT

IFA is a firm fixture in the global tech calendar, pulling in plenty of visitors and plenty of launches to the exhibition halls of Berlin. It doesn't quite match CES for size, but it's often the launch pad for many of the desirable new devices heading into holiday buying periods. Although the show returned in full force, there were some notable absences. Despite this, there was plenty of be excited about, from the latest headphones, through to some future tech that's going to change the landscape in the future.

The Lenovo Legion 9i might finally change my opinion on gaming laptops

Luke Baker — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:32 GMT

I've never been a huge fan of gaming laptops, in my eyes it has always made more sense to have a nice desktop system at home and a slim and light ultra-portable laptop for computing on the go.

Best waterproof Bluetooth speakers 2023

Joe Hindy — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 21:30:39 GMT

One of the best parts about Bluetooth speakers is that they can go anywhere. Their lack of reliance on wall outlets makes them great for camping, pool parties, travel, and other exciting activities or places. The downside is that exciting adventures often come with hazards like water. And water, as we all know, generally doesn't fare well with electronics. Fortunately, waterproof Bluetooth speakers exist in great numbers to help protect themselves from accidents.

What is Game Mode on Mac? How to enable it and how it works

Max Freeman-Mills — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:30:29 GMT

MacBook gaming has gone from a niche pursuit to a mainstream option in recent years, with Apple's pursuit of its own chipsets unlocking way more potential power in its laptops - and desktops.

What iPad do I have? How to find out your iPad model

Max Freeman-Mills — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:00:29 GMT

Figuring out what iPad you have is sometimes easier said than done - Apple's tablets have changed a bunch over the years, but different models still look pretty similar to each other.

How to take screenshots on a Mac

Max Freeman-Mills — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:25:28 GMT

Apple's Mac ecosystem is a really nice one, especially if you're all in and have an iPhone, Apple Watch or other Apple devices to loop into your system.

Best Gym Timers 2023

Conor Allison — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:45:28 GMT

Performing intervals during workouts are grueling enough without worrying about counting yourself up or down, which is why dedicated gym timers can be an essential to elevate your home gym or workout routine on the go, so your phone can focus on pairing with your headphones timer-free, uninterrupted bass as you blow through those reps. With many of these options operative via remote control or a smartphone app, you can power the timer from afar, keeping both time and your workout top of mind.

The Eve Play puck brings Apple AirPlay 2 to your fancy audio gear

Oliver Haslam — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:15:17 GMT

Apple's AirPlay 2 is a great way to take audio from devices like the upcoming iPhone 15 and throw it to compatible speakers. Those speakers of course include Apple's own HomePod and HomePod mini, and there are plenty of third-party alternatives out there as well. But what if you need to get audio to your legacy audio system? Maybe one that you've spent a small fortune building and sounds better than having Fleetwood Mac sing in your living room? Well, you buy the new Eve Play.

Terminator movies in order: Best way to watch Terminator

Elyse Betters Picaro — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:46:28 GMT

It's hard to chronologically arrange the Terminator series, due to the complexity of time travel in the films (and because there are fractured timelines). The latest entries in the series don't help matters, because they all have a tendency to ignores everything but the first two Terminator films.

Best mouse for PC and Mac 2023: Perfect pointers for work and play

Max Freeman-Mills — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:30:27 GMT

There's nothing wrong with a trackpad, per se, but let's be honest - even if they're getting better every year, there's still nothing quite like using an actual mouse for your computer - especially if you work from home.

Jason Bourne movies in order: The best way to watch

Elyse Betters Picaro — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:00:29 GMT

The Jason Bourne films brought the world of spycraft and CIA-ordered assassinations into the new millennium - while also turning Matt Damon into a full-blown Hollywood action star.

Alexa and Google Assistant are united for the first time on the JBL Authentics

Luke Baker — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:30:28 GMT

JBL took to the stage at IFA to announce its latest home speakers, the Authentics lineup, and for the first time ever, you can switch between two of the most popular voice assistants seamlessly. That's right, in an unexpected move, Google and Amazon have united to allow interchangeable use of their voice assistants on the new speaker range.

Alexa smart home: How to get started with a connected home

Chris Hall — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:00:27 GMT

A few years ago, the coordinated smart home felt like a pipe dream, but Alexa changed all that. Thanks to increasing compatibility with smart home devices, Alexa and the Amazon Echo is now the ideal hub of your connected home. Where previously it was a disparate mix of devices and brands, the Amazon Echo has pulled all this together.

How to factory reset a Kindle (plus how to reboot instead)

Elyse Betters Picaro — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:31:26 GMT

If you’re having trouble with your Kindle e-reader, or simply want to clear it of all personal information, you may need to perform what Amazon calls a "soft reset" or a "hard reset".

Roborock Q5 Pro and Q8 Max harness AI to clean your house faster

Cam Bunton — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 14:01:27 GMT

Roborock has announced two new models being added to its flagship robot vacuum range, at two different price points, but with lots of smart features that should make cleaning your home quick, more convenient and more consistent than before.

Alien Universe timeline: Alien, Predator, Prey, Blade Runner

Elyse Betters Picaro — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:00:27 GMT

It's pretty cool that two of the most iconic movie monsters share the same cinematic universe.

Best 65-inch 4K Smart TV 2023: Amazing big-screen televisions

Verity Burns — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 00:15:15 GMT

If you've been used to smaller TVs, the jump to a 65-inch television can feel like a really big one, but trust me - if you can fit a 65-inch TV in, you won't regret going larger when it comes to home cinema.

Best Bluetooth speakers 2023: Great sound, tested.

Verity Burns — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 23:27:24 GMT

Bluetooth speakers come in all different shapes and sizes, from larger options that have the power to fill your whole living room to smaller portables that are great for taking out and about.

Best Bluetooth trackers 2023: Expert tested and reviewed

Ian Carlos Campbell — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 20:35:23 GMT

No one likes losing things, and while our lives are becoming increasingly digital - and therefore ping-able - there are still items like your keys, purse, or pet that don't come with Bluetooth tracking built-in. Or perhaps you just can't seem to remember which beige gym locker you put your bag into. Regardless, one of the easiest ways to keep track of your belongings is by attaching the respective item to a Bluetooth tracker. They're small, have a long battery life, and can be easily found with the other object you always have with you, your smartphone.

How to replace an AirTag battery: A step-by-step guide

Britta O'Boyle — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 16:00:27 GMT

Apple's AirTags are great. They work seamlessly with Apple's devices through the Find My app and they are perfect for attaching to your keys, putting inside your luggage or perhaps finding somewhere a little more obscure to put them - something I did last year when I put one inside my child's Puffin toy. Wherever you choose to place them - your car, under a bike seat, your backpack - there will come a time when you will need to replace their battery. Don't worry, it's pretty simple.

TCL unveils mind-blowing new tech at latest press conference

Jack Ryan — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:04:04 GMT

For decades, TCL has been at the forefront of technological innovation in entertainment, communications, and household appliances. While the company has seen steady growth in all areas, it hasn’t excelled anywhere quite as much as it has in the television manufacturing department.