Apple iPad 2018 review: Design and features

If you’re expecting to see a different design from the already existing iPads before iPad 2018 release date, let’s just accept that you’ll be disappointed. The new iPad is very much identical with its predecessors, mostly with the previous iPad in terms of weight and physical attributes. With no surprises, there’s no difference in the way it feels when held; thin, light and great to hold. At a closer look on the new iPad (2018), you’ll notice it’s looking more like iPads produced five years ago; due to its thicker bezel. Yes, it has a large bezel around the highly responsive 9.7-inch touchscreen edged by the usual solid metal chassis, and a Home button featuring Touch ID. The device comes with the same 8 megapixels f/2.4 rear-facing and 1.2 megapixels f/2.2 front-facing cameras. The secret to its amazing speed is that the iPad 2018 features an A10 Fusion processor and a 2GB RAM which powers a considerably lighter operating system.

The new iPad supports Apple Pencil and features even greater performance.

A major notable shortcoming of the device is its lack of smart connector for an external keyboard. This questions the hype; it’s a device for students since they perform a lot of typing. Well, that doesn’t mean you can’t connect a keyboard at all, the Bluetooth device can take care of that comfortably, though it usually lags, but fairly okay. Bluetooth keyboards are in different qualities and prices. You won’t notice sluggish response using a high-quality type. Also, Apple is providing rugged keyboards through Logitech for only schools.

Key features

• 7-inch IPS LCD screen
• Compatible with Apple pencil
• A10 Fusion processor
• 2GB RAM
• 8MP rear and 1.2MP front cameras

Apple iPad 2018 review: multi-tasking and iOS 11 software

Apple’s introduction of split-view multi-tasking in iOS 9 got the cool finish it deserved late 2017, at the introduction of iOS 11. The operating system introduced an interface that’s entirely brand new for the new iPad, with a rejigged Control Center and the appropriate app switcher. The platform improves the functionality of the newly introduced pencil, with cool ability to write and draw inline in Notes and Mail. Far more interesting, the device can read your handwriting better, providing the option to search for written notes with keywords.

The availability of Keynote, Pages, Numbers and Microsoft Office ranks the iPad as a productivity workhorse and a true replacement for laptops. The free apps are considerably more powerful than Google’s cloud apps, though most of us are stuck on our favorite computing apps, they are just there if you’ll need them.

Apple iPad 2018 review: Battery life

The new iPad shares the same battery duration with the 2017 model. You’ll get around 11 hours of 50% bright screen time, which is very good except on busy days. You’ll lose about 9% of the battery for playing a 3D game for an hour, 7% after an hour of streaming via Wi-Fi or browsing the web.

iPad now features Apple Pencil support, giving users the ability to be even more creative and productive.

Continual streaming of video gave me adversely 11 hours before the battery died. If you’re required to use the iPad for a few hours in a day, then you’ll enjoy the unit for a whole week without any need to charge it. The standby mode consumes a maximum of 2% in a day and charging it is where you need time; approximately 4hours to charge fully from 1%, using the power adapter it’s supplied with.

iPad 2018 release date and price

Apple iPad 2018 price starts at $329 for the 32GB variant with Wi-Fi only and $459 for the model with both Wi-Fi and cellular. The 128GB capacity is available at $429 for the Wi-Fi only and $559 for the Wi-Fi + cellular variant. Apple announced accepting preorders during the launch on March 27 and confirmed that the iPad 2018 release date will be around April 2 in the U.S., U.K., Canada and most EU countries. iPad 2018 release date for the remaining countries was slated this month, May.

iPad is designed for powerful AR apps with its large Retina display, powerful chip, enhanced cameras and advanced sensors.

Pros

• Great price
• High performance
• Apple pencil compatible
• With the best iOS

Cons

• No smart connection for a keyboard
• Average rear camera

iOS 11 makes iPad more capable than ever with features like enhanced multitasking.

Verdict

Apple iPad 2018 is a powerful tool anyone can have as a laptop replacement. It’s a great deal mostly if you have an older model. Of course, it’s the cheapest iPad with a 9.7-inch screen, even with the additional features. It’s definitely a good buy!

The post Apple iPad 2018 Review: A Versatile Tool for Students and Professionals appeared first on Technowize.

Facebook unveiled several new features set to be included in its various platforms, with Instagram and WhatsApp getting group video chats in a few weeks, Reddit-like dislike voting system gradually made available to Facebook users, and the company’s Oculus Rift standalone VR headset hitting our stores in no distant time. The most ‘exciting’ move by the social media giant is its plans to include dating feature to Facebook. Zuckerberg announced that the dating feature which is coming soon is not designed just for hookups, but for “real long-term relationships,” since the platform has plans to enforce dating rules on its users.

“There are 200 million people on Facebook who list themselves as single,” Zuckerberg said. “So clearly there’s something to do here.”

Image: Mark Zuckerberg at F8 2018

It’s rather too hazy that one cannot see where the pressure is coming from. Is it wrong to make money from every avenue available, even when it’s gravely endangering the safety of others and our society at large? Well, that depends on how you choose to look at it. From my reference point, I see jurisdiction or a bastardized society. When it comes to business, policies must play a role to bring sanity; otherwise, no one gets the blame or becomes accountable if corporate decisions go haywire.

As long as millions of users are involved, investors will be ready to cast their hooks into the next available money mining pond. Let the dying center handle potential risks or societal consequences, after all, the most lucrative business is all about harnessing loopholes from debatable policies. Shares in various dating platforms recorded a steep fall immediately after Zuckerberg’s statements on the dating feature, “more than 22% below their opening price,” according to BBC.

We are referring to a company facing fierce criticism and loss of public trust, with various investigations on its recent faux pas consistently launched at different regions globally, each ending our hopes on the promises that have at least once been broken. We can be so sure that our privacy is safe with Facebook; a company trying to introduce new money-making features that would compromise the encryption of the largest most secure social network – WhatsApp it didn’t build. BBC reports that Facebook is building a new clear history feature as a measure to boost the privacy of its users; a tool that should “provide members with more control over how their information is used.” In a better translation; a way of becoming the security puppet so you could share blames for mishaps. Providing your data is the big deal and to control how it’s used is a fallacious position to assume. Either the system protects it or we record the next victims, if not for the second time publicly announced.

Our obsession for Facebook’s prime concept is now looking like what the center cannot tame, with our voices repeatedly misjudged, and every new innovation unconsciously taking us away from our primary cultures in a way we rarely can fight. It may be too early to imagine what our society would become; by the way, our past ugly experience hasn’t promised us a better position.

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A research based on Fitbit reviews shows that most people who opt for other brands of fitness tracking eventually dumped them for Fitbit. Getting the service you need accurately is the most important and Fitbit is not anything like other fitness devices. Not because it’s the most popular brand or the first to make a significant breakthrough in fitness tracking.

Fitbit Comparison

Fitbit models are all service-oriented, the accuracy is second to none, and the battery life has no comparison with other fitness tracking brands. Unlike other competing brands, Fitbit does not jam pack unnecessary services to your fitness tracking device to slow down the efficiency and provide short-lived batteries. Different products are designed to function effectively in a specified fitness plan. That’s why it’s best to ask which Fitbit is best for me before making a choice.

Comparison table of the available Fitbit products (fitness trackers)

Fitbit Comparison Chart 2020

Recent Fitbit Wristbands

• Atlas
• Charge 2
• Flex 2

Fitbit Atlas – $129.95

The Fitbit Atla is a good fitness tracker if you are fascinated by several designs. The device comes with different choices of straps to ensure that you always get a color match. Aside from that, it has great fitness features, but without GPS feature, not waterproof and no heart rate monitor. We would suggest you spend extra bucks ($20) to acquire the HR edition (Fitbit Atlas HR) if you need heart rate monitor. We also observed that the battery life can last more than 5 days alleged by Fitbit. Atlas battery life can last up to a week.

Image: Fitbit Atlas

Fitbit Charge 2 – $149.95

The best in the category of wristbands is Fitbit Charge 2. It has a wider screen compared to the first edition released in 2014 and fully fortified features for fitness. The only challenge is that the GPS can be accessed through your Smartphone. Only Fitbit Surge and Ionic (Fitbit Smartwatches) have built-in GPS features. Fitbit Charge 2 has guided breathing, heart rate monitor and multiple sports tracking abilities.

Image: Fitbit Charge 2

Fitbit Flex 2 – $59.95

Flex 2 is a complete reincarnation of Flex released in 2013, only the price and water resistance feature makes them different. There is no point going to buy Flex when Flex 2 is cheaper and more modern with waterproof. Fitbit Flex 2 is the most suitable fitness tracker if you sincerely want no ambiguity. But note that this device can only track your steps and sleep. No heart rate monitor, clock or a screen. It’s completely plain with a slim design and very affordable.

Image: Fitbit Flex 2

Fitbit Atlas vs Charge 2

The two devices are relatively the same except that the Fitbit Charge 2 has extra feature compared to Atlas, that’s why it has an additional cost of $20. They are both compatible with Android, iOS and Windows. But the feature difference is quite much. We suggest that you go for Charge 2 and pay the extra bucks if you won’t mind.

Image: Fitbit Atlas (L); Charge 2 (R)

Additional feature in Charge 2 not available in Atlas

• Bigger screen
• Heart rate monitor
• Cardio fitness level
• Guided breathing sessions
• Multiple sports tracking and connected GPS

Fitbit Smartwatches

• Surge
• Blaze
• Ionic

Fitbit Surge – $142.28

The Fitbit Surge is the first Smartwatch from Fitbit. It has built-in GPS technology and offers multiple fitness tracking features such as heart rate monitor, cardio, etc. Surge is the only Fitbit model with the least efficiency in battery life. It recorded 3 days lifespan against others with 5 days battery life. You may settle for this if you need a smartwatch from Fitbit and believe that Ionic is too expensive.

Image: Fitbit Surge

Blaze – $199.95

Fitbit surprised everyone with the battery life in Blaze. Compared to the 3 days offered by their first Smartwatch, Blaze has a battery life of 5 days with a customizable appearance not included in Surge but the Built-in GPS feature is not available here. It has interesting fitness features with a little eccentric design.

Like other smartwatches on the list, Blaze does not offer SmartTrack which is important in any wearable device to burn calories easily.

Image: Blaze

Fitbit Ionic – $299.99

Your best choice is Ionic if you are after a smartwatch from Fitbit. It’s the most recent with full features. Though this is one of the most efficient smartwatches in the market, the likes of Series 3 from Apple and LG Watch Sport are ranked higher in terms of functionality. But Fitbit Ionic remains the best in battery life when it comes to smartwatches.

Image: Fitbit Ionic

Final Verdict for Which Fitbit is Best for Me?

Your question earlier (which Fitbit is best for me) should have been answered if you already have a category in mind before visiting this page, or a targeted fitness you wish to track. Fitbit Atlas vs Charge 2 compared above should guide you if a Fitbit smartwatch is not your option. Flex 2 is a nice option to avoid complexities of GPS and HR. The Fitbit Surge would be a good buy if Ionic is too expensive among the smartwatches.

The post Which Fitbit is Right For You? Fitbit Comparison Chart 2020 appeared first on Technowize.

Apple has responded to Google Home, and Amazon Echo as the company joins the smart-speaker-producers market with HomePod – a smart speaker that wants to be at the center of your music life. But hold on; let’s not forget that Apple has been unique in their products. We had thought that Apple would allow Android users to sneak in and enjoy the music style from Apple HomePod, but that was completely wrong. It’s strictly a party for iOS users!

While other manufacturers are leading the chase for a frontline in the excellent delivery of smart speakers, Apple HomePod delivers a powerful audio none would resist. Yes! Alexis and Google Assistant have both made many front pages and provided impressive technologies; we can slightly accept that Apple has a few catching up to do. And again, not everyone would agree with the proposed HomePod price.

HomePod features and Design

HomePod has a small-tower design with round edges wrapped by acoustic mesh grille. The sound system is powered by seven beam-forming tweeters and a 4-inch woofer facing upwards which Apple claims could deliver distortion-free audio in almost any room. The well-distributed tweeters around the device provide a 360 sound effect. Apple HomePod comes in two colors; white or grey-black – a perfect match for any home décor. The product lacks built-in Bluetooth but features strong Wi-Fi connectivity supported by the Apple devices.

Apple HomePod didn’t miss the smart features offered by Amazon Echo or Google Home. The device which has a room-sensing technology can provide remote control to your smart home devices. That’s where Apple stunned a lot of us! It’s an indication that Apple is seriously catching up with the old time smart wireless speaker manufacturers who have started this design for more than three years now.

Just like its counterparts, Homepod uses voice commands to perform all tasks. The device is embedded with eight microphones which allow it to receive commands even when the music is loud. HomePod can control a wide range of HomeKit devices, including lighting, heating, air conditioning, etc.

Apple’s Siri technology powers the intelligent feature in Homepod. The feature also permits users to know about the details of a playing track, control music while also responding to questions Alexes or Google Assistant can respond to. The Siri feature also delivers reminders, calendars, places calls, and more.

HomePod release date

Apple HomePod release date was previously slated November 2017 before the company released a statement that the product would be delayed until 2018. The statement says, “We can’t wait for people to experience HomePod, Apple’s breakthrough wireless speaker for the home, but we need a little more time before it’s ready for our customers. We’ll start shipping in the US, UK, and Australia in early 2018.”

HomePod price in the U.S. and U.K. released so far is $349 and €349 respectively. The product price for other locations is yet to be disclosed.

The post Apple HomePod Review: Apple, is this all you’ve got? appeared first on Technowize.

Our additions to social media platforms and internet should have been reduced by the use of Android wears, but the device is doing just a little to gain this credit – almost all social media activities can be performed through Android Wears. The major constraint is the screen size. Otherwise, it’s a full extension of our Smartphone devices, if not their replacement.

Wear OS Apps for Google Smartwatch

With the available apps, users will rely on their personal policies to preclude potential additions to some Smartphone apps. And as Android Wear user, your top android wear apps should coincide with your regular needs while assisting your productivity and lifestyle.

Here is a list of the best Android wear apps 2018.

Android Pay – Android Wear App

As a device promoting flexibility, installing Android Pay means you can make payments without any contact, though this service is only available in Android Wears with NFC (check) feature. All that is required after installing the app is to add your bank card, and then you can enjoy all the convenient and contactless pay. Remember you don’t need your wallet or phone to make payments with Android Pay on your wrist.

Image: Android Pay

Uber – Android Wear App

With Uber on your Android wear 2.0 smartwatch, you can book an Uber directly without having your phone around – operates as standalone. You also do not need your phone to check the driver’s progress or the estimated time for your journey; all is on your wrist. Uber Android wear app is surely a lifeline to exploit in case you are stranded somewhere far from home with no phone available.

Image: Uber app

Tinder – Android Wear App

Your next date tonight is not far from a swipe on your wrist if you have the Tinder Android wear app. The application is packed with all the features on the main app. You can see notifications on your next match, read and respond to messages, explore potential dates in your area, and more, all on your wristwatch. For more flexibility, Tinder Android wear can be accessed by just issuing a voice command.

Image: Tinder app

Google Slides – Android Wear App

The new Google slides app allows you to use your Android Wear smartwatch as a presentation remote and for timekeeping. Before controlling slides remotely with your smartwatch, you first need to cast the slides to a display that’s enabled with Chromecast or present them in a video call. Google Slides provides you with the opportunity to see and control your slides while facing your audience during presentations.

Image: Google Slides

Google Fit – Android Wear App

Google Fit usually come pre-installed on most Android Wear smartwatches. It’s an app that helps you track your health effectively; cycling, running, walking, etc. The application also allows users to synchronize data from the Fit app to their phone seamlessly.

Image: Google Fit

Strava – Android Wear App

Strava is also a health tracking app serving as an alternative to Google Fit. The standalone version of Strava is available on Android wear 2.0; this allows you to leave your phone at home while recording all your sports activities such as running, cycling, and others.

Image: Strava

Telegram – Android Wear App

This app is essential when you don’t need your phone to respond to text or voice messages, create group chats, and to browse chat history on Telegram. The Android wear 2.0 version supports emojis, theme, and stickers for full pack experience of the messaging app.

Image: Telegram

Shazam – Android Wear App

Everyone desires to pull a song’s lyrics at some point when our phones are far away. We may also want to identify a song as quickly as possible. With Shazam on your Android Wear, you don’t need to hassle for your phone. Just call up Shazam on your wrist and the job is done easily and very quick. This app is a top Android wear app in 2018 for every music lover.

Image: Shazam

Lifesum – Android Wear App

The Lifesum app is also a good health app, but serves as a guide to help you regulate and to balance your diet. Though it’s more useful for those on a diet, Lifesum also helps you track your water and food intake daily. It can also provide exercise tips, set personal health goals and to guide you develop a health plan.

Image: Lifesum

PixtoCam for Android Wear

If you have been wondering how to use your smartwatch as a remote to your Smartphone camera, PixtoCam is the Android wear app you have been looking for. It offers easy remote control to take pictures, record videos, control the zoom while also allowing you to toggle between the front and back camera of your Smartphone. In addition, PixtoCam enables you to view existing videos and photos right on your wrist.

Image: PixtoCam

BeSoccer – Android Wear App

You don’t need to be checking scores regularly to know how your favorite matches are going. BeSoccer gives you live update on Premier League, World Cup games, European leagues and other competitions of your choice. All you need is to select the leagues, competitions, teams or matches of your interest and the live update will be delivered to your right on your wrist. Information from BeSoccer includes match statistics, cards, goals, fixtures and club news.

Image: BeSoccer

WhatsApp – Android Wear App

As one of the most popular Android apps, WhatsApp Android Wear is available for instant voice and text messaging. Also, the app’s features are improved on Android Wear 2.0.

Image: WhatsApp

Eat24 – Android Wear App

Eat24 is an app that provides easy access to food; it offers a list of local restaurants supporting pickup or delivery at your doorstep. You can place the order quickly while working without having to check on your phone if you have Eat24 on your wrist. The application will also get information about your order delivery and more with just a glance on your wrist. What an easy life!

Image: Eat24

Citymapper – Android Wear App

If Citymapper is available in your city, then this app is a must-have. It’s far better than Google Maps – provides reliable information on live train and bus times.  Citymapper also provides special alerts like when to get off the bus, when to change trains and more! As a real transit navigator, it is very handy when you need direction guide without staring at your phone and provides information on other transportation medium.

Image: Citymapper

The post Top Android Wear Apps in 2018 : Wear OS Smartwatches appeared first on Technowize.

While most security cameras share almost the same function, they all have different modes of operation and capability extents. Security cameras give you the assurances of the safety of your home by providing updates on events at various corners while you are away. And with frequent advancements in outdoor security cameras, there is need to go for the best outdoor surveillance cameras which suit your choice of design, durability, mode of connectivity and memory storage.

Varying features in different outdoor security cameras include face detection, night vision capability, weatherproof, location base alert and cloud storage for footages. We have compared various functions and durability to arrive at a list of the best home security cameras below.

Lighthouse AI – $399

Lighthouse is a smart home security camera that combines advanced AI and 3D time-of-flight sensor technology to distinguish between human and animals. It eliminates false alert using its 3D sensor and artificial intelligence. All connections between the app, camera and its cloud servers are encrypted with bank-level AES-256 encryption, 2048-bit keys, and TLS/SSL.

Lighthouse has a very good design and provides live streaming of your home from the app on your phone. Lighthouse eliminates false alerts by detecting movement from an unauthorized person, not motion or pets, through its 3DD sensor and advanced AI capabilities. Lighthouse also supports night vision.

Lighthouse has a very good design and provides live streaming of your home from any device that supports up to 1080p.

Via the two-way talk feature, you can say hello to your Dad through the camera. It also responds to questions with the respective activities such as “what did the dog do while I was away?” Lighthouse has the function to show you events at your home such as “if the kids are running late from school,” or “did you see someone with the dog today?”

Instead of scrolling to watch the security footage, Lighthouse AI can respond to your questions by showing you events that you care about. Aside from the hardware price ($299), there is a $10 monthly subscription for using Lighthouse. Lighthouse is one of the best indoor smart cameras in the market.

Arlo Smart Home Security – $349.99

These are series of Netgear security cameras with different models for different purposes. They provide live stream HD video quality with free cloud storage. Arlo models; Arlo Q and Arlo Q Plus offer almost same features, with slightly a different storage capacity – about seven days of video footage on the cloud storage for free. Surveillance from Arlo smart home cameras is accessed using any compatible smart device supporting 1080p videos. The cameras also support local storage. They have wide field view (up to 130 degrees), supports two-way communication and designed with advanced infrared led for night vision.

The Arlo Smart home security cameras have a smart siren in the base station and audio support for audio-based alerts.

The Arlo Smart home security cameras have a smart siren in the base station and audio support for audio-based alerts. Like the lighthouse AI, Arlo Smart Home Security requires a monthly subscription of $9 for users with more than five cameras.

Samsung Smartcam HD Pro – $209.00

This security camera is another outstanding home security camera with amazing features. The HD security camera system can shot up to 1080p full videos and stream to your computer/laptop or mobile device at 720p. The CMOS sensor allows maximum light and gives outstanding quality images and video. It has a two-way talk feature which allows you to listen and to communicate back.

With its advanced motion and audio detection, Samsung Smartcam HD pro can distinguish between human and whirring noise.

With its advanced motion and audio detection, Samsung Smartcam HD pro can distinguish between human and whirring noise. It can report other activities within its region like if your pet goes to “off-limits” or your kids play off-limits. It has a simple and easy Wi-Fi setup feature for easy management for the best home security. At $5 monthly plan for Samsung Smartcam offers you up to five days event storage in the cloud while $8 and $20 offers up to 7 to 21 days respectively.

Nest Cam IQ – $299

Nest Cam IQ is an awesome security camera with great features. It has great quality live streaming but offers little monitoring service to non-subscribers. The subscription is $10 per month and the hardware goes for $ 299. Nest Cam IQ has two-way communications where you can talk back to the camera on a live stream. You can have a full conversation with your kids through the camera or scare off an intruder. The security camera also sends notifications to the connected device like your Smartphone or tablet when it detects any security threat. You can also set active zone and area to ignore through the camera setup.

Nest Cam IQ has facial recognition feature, and can also be set to detect light bulbs, smokes, and other factors.

Nest Cam IQ has facial recognition feature, and can also be set to detect light bulbs, smokes, and other factors. It has a long storage capacity for security footages. Nest Cam IQ has digital zoom range up to 12X from 8X with high dynamic range (HDR) video capture.

Canary Flex Security Camera – $199.00

The canary has home security line of products for quality home cameras. Canary Flex is a new AI-Powered security camera with awesome face recognition feature. It shots up to 1080p videos and amazing weatherproof. It costs $199 to acquire the hardware and $99 for an annual subscription. Canary flex offers intelligent alert, one-touch access and an end to end encryption. However, the camera does not have some features such as home health technology. This feature detects humidity, air quality, temperature, loud siren or outdoor monitoring. Canary flex has a 360 magnetic base, 116-degree field view and night vision feature.

Canary Flex is a new AI-Powered security camera with awesome face recognition feature. It shots up to 1080p videos and amazing weatherproof.

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A wearable companion for constant connection to your phone undeniably makes life easier. It reduces how much time you need to move around with the giant slab (Smartphone) to remain connected. As best described by Wikipedia, smartwatches are not just time-telling devices, they are wearable computers.

In 2012, when Pebble made the breakthrough in smartwatches, many were wondering why they would need such device when they already have smartphones. But now, they are thinking differently. The best budget smartwatches has become a concern for all following the technology or desiring to get one as a gift for someone. Yes! Because, the most successful criticism about smartwatches is the prices (averagely $150), though manufacturers are currently working hard to stop positioning them as luxury goods.

Below is a list of our best budget smartwatches 2018 to assist your choice as you plan to enjoy certain features such as connectivity with various operating systems, easy charging system, and access to notifications from your mobile phone.

ASUS ZenWatch 2 – $149

First released in 2014, the ASUS ZenWatch is considerably one of the best budget smartwatches by many users due to its wide features and price. With its elegance stainless steel frame design, ASUS ZenWatch has a Corning Gorilla Glass screen which protects the device from scratches even when it drops. It has a water-resistant feature (IP67 certified) that allows the device to tolerate submerges of up to one meter under the water and a pedometer for a track on your health. One of the most stunning features in ASUS ZenWatch is the HyperCharge which allows the device to charge from 0% to 60% in just 15 minutes. This smartwatch which has tons of face customization options also allow users to remotely control their phone cameras.

Image: ASUS ZenWatch 2 – $149

Huawei Fit Smart Fitness Watch – $129.99

Huawei Fit is a good-buy if you want the smartwatch that can withstand various harsh conditions such as rain, sweat, water splashes, etc. because it has a 5ATM Waterproof design. The device band comes in three colors; black, orange and blue with round face stylish design. You can monitor your pulse, sleep pattern, and movement; pace and track using its multiple features and GPS connectivity. Huawei Fit can connect with both Android and iOS devices. You can also process emails, calls and receive messages using this smartwatch.

Image: (Left) Fossil Hybrid – $116; (Right) Huawei Fit Smart Fitness Watch – $129.99

Fossil Hybrid – $116

There is no doubt about this device being one of the best budget smartwatches 2018. The features and unique design are considered weigh too much for the price. It has all the tracker, notifications for social media, app alerts, multiple time zones, and more. Fossil Hybrid can control your music, take pictures and track your sleep. It connects to both Android and iOS smartphones.

Alcatel OneTouch Smartwatch – $99.99

Alcatel OneTouch is the smartwatch to consider if you are always indulged in sports activities. With two sizes available, it has a very attractive design, long battery life and connects to both Android and iOS phones. The USB charger is in the band, and the device can help you monitor your sleep patterns, check heart rates, and your movement. Alcatel OneTouch can control your Smartphone’s camera, display notifications and play music. It has water and dust resistant design and will also be useful in finding your phone when you can’t recall its last position.

Image: Alcatel OneTouch Smartwatch

Pebble 2+ – $74

As a top brand in smartwatches, it’s impossible not to have Pebble on our list of best budget smartwatches 2018. Pebble 2+ is relatively one of the best budgets considering the device’s wide range of features and price. Pebble 2+ automatically checks your calories, pulse, and tracks your movement; runs and walks. It has the sleep monitor feature also and allows users to interact with voice commands. Just like other advanced smartwatches, Pebble 2+ offers loads of customization options and can connect with both Android and iOS Phones.

Image: Pebble 2+$74

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Top AR & VR Headsets of 2018

If you are considering getting yourself a VR headset, our list has a few of the top AR & VR headsets in 2018 powered by consoles, high-end computers, and Smartphone devices, which will satisfy your high-end gaming experience.

Oculus Rift

Oculus Rift is one of the most popular virtual reality headsets with many years of experience in the development of VR. The device is produced by Oculus VR, a company purchased by the CEO of Facebook for $2.3 billion in 2012. The Rift development process had Oculus to work directly with Microsoft which paid off by providing a plug-and-play support for users with Windows 10 through DVI and USB ports, a feature that’s not available in any other VR headset.

Rift offers immerse virtual reality experience with its extra sensors, 1080×1200 resolution per eye, optional Oculus Touch controllers, and built-in headphones features which can be removed. It has a 90Hz refresh rate, Pentile OLED display, 110° field of view and a powerful 3D audio effect.

Image: Oculus VR

HTC Vive

PC gaming will lack description if HTC Vive is not acknowledged. Two giant techs develop this virtual reality headset; HTC and Valve corporations. The headset operates itself through its embedded room scale tracking technology. This tool also allows the user to move in 3D space – interaction with the virtual world like you would in real life. HTC Vive is also designed with handheld motion-tracked controllers which enable the user to experience full interaction with the environment and to recreate every movement in-game.

While HTC Vive currently prides the highest display quality with its 1080×1200 screens per eye, the VR headset also has two touch-and-button enabled controllers used to imitate whatever you want from a gun to paintbrush. However, this VR headset is recognized as the most expensive of its kinds at the moment.

Image: HTC Vive

PlayStation VR

Over 2 million units of PlayStation VRs were sold within the first 12 months of its launch by the developers, Sony Interactive Entertainment. As a VR headset developed by a giant gaming industry, it is difficult not to find features that will deliver a top experience in gaming. The PlayStation VR enables a simultaneous display on the VR headset screen and a Television, a feature not supported by other headsets.

The PlayStation VR has a display resolution of 1920×1080 on its 5.7-inch OLED panel. The headset enables a social screen video output to the television powered by a processor box. The headset tracks a 360-degree movement of the head through its nine positional LEDs. The only critics of PSVR headset are that the device only requires PlayStation 4, unlike other VR headsets that require high-end computers which are believed to offer higher system performance.

Image: Playstation VR

Samsung Gear VR

Gear VR is one of the most advanced VR headsets powered by Smartphones. It’s a technology delivered by Samsung in collaboration with Oculus – a company with a high profile in developing VR headsets. Gear VR has a 96-degree field of view which has now been upgraded to 110 degrees while acting as a controller and a custom inertial measurement unit (IMU), but the powering smartphone where the device is connected through a micro USB act as Gear VR’s processor and display.

The VR headset is visualized through its 2460 x 1440 super AMOLED display; this is not really bad for the price. It has a back button and a touchpad by the side for proximity detection when the headset is in use. The only challenge with Gear VR is its compatibility. The device currently has support for only Samsung smartphones which include Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Galaxy S8+, Galaxy S8, Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 Edge, Galaxy S6 Edge+, Samsung Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 Edge, and Galaxy S6.

Caption: Samsung Gear VR

Google Daydream

Individuals with flair for VR headsets powered by smartphones have no restrictions using Google Daydream. Yes, because the device is compatible with many android phones operating with “Nougat” 7.1 version or later. Google Daydream is an advanced smartphone-powered virtual reality headset compare to the company’s previous VR headset, Google Cardboard.

Google Daydream is comparably smaller, lighter, and more portable than the Samsung Gear VR which enables users to travel with the VR headset while having the lenses protected. Some users like Adi Robertson of The Verge dubbed Google Daydream the “best mobile headset” she has ever used. It’s the VR headset that could be worn for many hours due to its “squishy foam-and-fabric body.” Daydream-enabled phones include HTC, Alcatel, Samsung, LG, Huawei, Xiaomi, ZTE, and Asus.

Image: Google Daydream

Moggles VR Headset

The Moggles VR headset is the one to consider if you are looking for a standard smartphone-powered VR headset that’s portable. The most distinguishing design of Moggles is that the device can fold neatly into a small handy case. Most users think it’s a device to show off a class with friends even though the quality is a top class within its category.

The VR headset has an attractive design. It’s slim and comfortable, though it’s a headset you won’t enjoy wearing for long hours because it would start to dig in. Moggles VR headset is very affordable, and the device to consider if you have a small budget and want something more.

Image: Moggles VR

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Wixen Music Publishing files a fresh lawsuit worth $1.6 billion against Spotify alleging copyright infringement. The suit covers music from Missy Elliot, Steely Dan, Neil Young, David Cassidy, and many others. Wixen Music Publishing is the publisher that represents a host of artists which a few has already been mentioned.

It is expected that music licensing rules would take new shape since new industries that make billions through broadcasting will always face license charges even in hazy or complex conditions. Every individual in the music industry would insist on the need for reforms capable of facilitating clearer legal rights for increased revenue. The moment to shove for that fantasy may have come for Wixen Music Publishing as Spotify is caught in their nest while they contend that the Sweden-based streaming giants have gone public with thousands of their songs without a proper license.

Reporters from the Hollywood revealed that the suit which is filed December 29, 2017, is alleging copyright infringement by Spotify and asking for at least $1.6 billion in damages and injunctive relief.

While Wixen’s lawsuit remains fresh, many who have been following up the rising copyright challenges faced by Spotify would not be surprised by this development.

Spotify is yet to leave the hook of a group of songwriters led by Melissa Ferrick and David Lowery, whose suits claimed that Spotify is yet to service mechanical licenses for song composers in cash. This case had forced Spotify to propose $43 million for settlement to resolve the case as at May 2017, after admitting to having no statutory license of reproducing or distributing musical compositions through its platform as claimed by the lawsuit. However, this has not been resolved as most of the songwriters were not satisfied with the offer.

Two lawsuits similar to the Melissa Ferrick and David Lowery were also filed against Spotify in July 2017 which one of them includes suit from Bob Gaudio (songwriter). The plaintiff in these cases claim that Spotify is yet to fully comply with the U.S. Copyright Act obligations under Section 115, the act mandates a license for musical composition (mechanical reproduction), available only with proper payments and “notice of intention.”

In reaction to the fresh lawsuit worth $1.6 billion, Spotify is asking to know if the aggressive actions taken by Wixen were authorized by its clients who include Kenny Rogers, Andrew Bird, etc. Spotify is claiming that the administrative agreements between Songwriters and Wixen which authorizes publishers to negotiate license deals are not effective in litigations.

All these events and more have earned lawmakers attention to reforming license for music in a bid to curb or effectively manage future lawsuits related to those facing Spotify.

This is because more litigation from songwriters and their publishers are now predictable since Spotify has grown to become a multibillion-dollar company through efforts of the music industry. Though publishers such as Wixen have not succeeded in benefiting from the company’s success, more cases are not far from being filed, including additional pressure from the existing cases with a bridge of licensing claims.

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Imagine listening to loud music with ear-buds on both ears while riding a bike. That sounds suicidal, right? There’s a technology that would allow you to enjoy music on your bike without missing the traffic sounds – bone conduction headphones make it possible.

Some people have dubbed the invention of bone conduction headphones as the channel to create portable audio in the mist of many sounds. It’s a technology that anyone interested in taming sounds doesn’t want to miss. Bone conduction headphones are also good devices for individuals with hearing impairments. And this makes the market really large that sometimes choosing a brand that best suits you could be a task. But what are bone conduction headphones?

Bone Conduction headphones are devices used to transmit sound waves directly into one’s inner ear bones without passing it through the eardrums. Does that make any sense or sound too scientific? Well, let’s explain this using hearing mechanism.

When a sound travels into the inner ear, from the pinna (outer ear), the waves are channeled to the eardrum (also called the tympanic membrane) which signals the inner ear bones through vibration. The ear bones will package the sound to the ear cochlea (fluid) in the form of a special vibration where it is converted into electric pulses for the brain to interpret. The use of bone conduction headphones makes one hear from sounds that are passed through the jaw and cheekbones (skull) which gets to the inner bones directly.

Best Bone Conduction Headphones of 2018

While there are many bone conduction headphones available in the market, some have more outstanding designs which serve as an edge above another such as appropriate fittings against compression loss, EDR transmission, and battery life. Now let’s look at the best bone conduction headphones you can buy.

Aftershokz Trekz Titanium

Aftershokz Trekz is the bone conduction headphones to consider when top tie audio is much of a concern. It has a vague layout and sharp angles but still curved with slightly distended bands for a suitable fitting. The device is completely gorgeous as a pair of athletic headphones. Trekz’s cable is the only thing that looks challenging about the headphone. Even though it provides a vital function, dealing with a cable may provide some discomfort.

Interestingly, Aftershokz Trekz is compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 phones. That means it can connect with phones manufactured five to six years ago to deliver raw sounds straight into your ear without compression loss. This feature (low power Bluetooth radio) makes Aftershokz have a considerable long battery life. It can deliver music (nonstop) on the highest volume for about six hours.

Aftershokz Bluez 2S Wireless

Bluez is the younger brother to Trekz if reviewed on a wider scale. But Bluez 2S wireless bone conduction headphones have some qualities that make it outstanding in certain scenarios. It’s the headphones to buy if you are the type that sweats a lot from a workout or take up tasks that would expose you to the rain – it’s water resistant. The headphones are designed to be a little loose than other models though they still fit comfortably while jogging or running. One can say that it’s designed for rap music or electronic because the sound quality has a lot of bass. Just like the Trekz model, Bluez is also compatible with phones built six years ago and the battery life is relatively the same with the Trekz.

KSCAT Open-ear

This one of the top quality bone conduction headphones that delivers premium sounds, though not very popular like the Aftershokz or any other brands. It is designed to deliver safety, the outer front edge looks straight, but the inside is curved enough for a comfortable grip. It is mostly used by hikers, runners, and cyclists. KSCAT has an open-ear design with a quality shape to aid direct sound to the inner ear bones. It’s durable as fabrics from titanium with v4.1 Bluetooth connectivity (10m wide range), and the battery life is about 6 hours.

IMAGE: KSCAT Open-ear

Aftershokz AS450 Sportz

AS450 is a very good option for individuals with a short budget for bone conduction headphones. While it’s considered as less superior to other models reviewed, Aftershokz AS450 Sportz delivers outstanding quality compare to the bone conduction headphones in its category. In fact, if you are not concerned about cables on headphones, AS450 is a great deal. It has a 3.5 mm headphone jack and noise-canceling microphone which are also available for calls. As a device from a top company in bone conduction headphones, AS450 Sportz is designed with nanotechnology coating, rubber gaskets, and watertight fittings to impede inflow of sweat into the device. The battery life is alleged to last for about 12 hours, but most users can’t get up to that number of hours.

IMAGE: Aftershokz AS450 Sportz

Damson Audio DAHB01RE

The options available in Damson bone conduction headphones are the reasons why it remains one of the best to buy. Damson headphones allow users to isolate ambient noise by plugging in a traditional earpiece into a 3.5 mm jack on the device’s side. As a device for athletes, it has a water-resistant design, adjustable rubber securing headband, and Google voice features. The battery life is about 8 hours of nonstop music, the best on our list. But the sound quality is not as good as any of the bone conduction headphones on this list.

IMAGE: Damson Audio DAHB01RE

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