Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Reviews

A guide to inviting people to follow your LinkedIn page

LinkedIn is a popular social media platform for professionals and businesses of all sizes. It can build relationships, promote products or services, share news and updates, and more. One way to make your presence on LinkedIn even more effective is by automatically inviting people to follow your page. Here are some tips on inviting more people to follow your page. Create an Engaging Profile The first step in getting people interested in following your page is creating a profile that stands out from the rest. Ensure the profile includes detailed information about yourself, such as what you do professionally, what industry you are in, any awards or recognitions you may have received, etc. This ensures that the potential followers will know who they are dealing with before deciding whether they want to follow your page. Moreover, add relevant keywords throughout the profile, so users searching within those topics will find yours easier than they will find others. Identifying the Target Audience Once your profile is set up, it is time to start identifying who would be interested in following your company on LinkedIn. Do some research into who already follows similar pages to get an idea of the types of people you should target. You can also use LinkedIn’s Audience Insights tool to understand better who is in your target market and where they are located.Invite Connections Another great way to get people interested in following your page is by sending them personalized invitations through their connections list on LinkedIn. This allows you to target specific individuals—such as peers who work in the same field as yourself—and allows potential followers to understand better who you are and what your page is about. Post Engaging Content Once you have created an engaging profile and invited connections to follow your page, it is important to post content that will keep them coming back for more. Try posting industry-relevant news stories and original content, such as blog articles or videos related to the topics you cover on your page. This helps build trust with followers while providing them with valuable information they can use in their professional lives. Utilize Automation Tools Finally, automation tools allow users to set up automated messages inviting potential followers to check out their LinkedIn page. These tools make it easier to reach out and connect with people without having to send individual invitations each time manually. Many of these tools offer analytics so you can track how successful the campaigns are and adjust accordingly if needed. Conclusion Inviting people to follow your LinkedIn page automatically is a great way for businesses or professionals looking for greater online visibility on this platform. By creating an engaging profile, sending personalized invitations through connection lists, posting relevant content regularly, and utilizing automation tools where applicable, you can always ensure that your presence on LinkedIn remains strong and that as many people as possible see your page.EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Get Verizon Home Internet available for only $25 per month

Verizon is making things easier for those on the 5G network as regards unlimited internet, effective immediately. The Plan, known as Welcome Unlimited plan, published on the carrier’s website offers unlimited talk, text, and data for subscribers.Why Welcome Unlimited plan?Verizon explains this as a commitment to enable consumers save without sacrifice in 2023. However, this offer is only for a limited time. This offer runs for three-year duration that excludes taxes and fees. What this means for consumers is saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality when it comes to owning a device.Quick look at the plansTaking a look at Verizon’s best plan ever, subscribers can get their 5G fully loaded, meaning they can get more especially when it comes to music. Subscribers can enjoy this plan with $55 for one line per month. Users enjoy unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband. This is beneficial, for 5G network is ten times faster than 4G.See Also: Verizon announces +play entertainment hubConsumers also get unlimited high-speed data that won’t slow down no matter what they do. High quality video streaming is also available. Furthermore, the most attractive part to the plan is the Verizon Home Internet available for only $25 per month.That’s getting 50 percent off the normal Verizon 5G Home or LTE Home Internet plan. On the other hand, interested consumers may get Fios internet and save with the Mobile + Home Discount both as low as $25.Other plans offering similar perks include the 5G Play More, 5G Do More, 5G start, and the only plan meant for iPhone – One Unlimited for iPhone. All plans attract the Verizon Home Internet for only $25 per month.Better yet, the $25 per line per month on Verizon’s 5G Nationwide network is locked for three years. Consumers will be able to test and see just how powerful 5G is, especially when it comes to enjoying full blast entertainment.

Zhiyun Fiveray F100 Light Stick Review

One of the most important tools in photography or videography is not the camera, it’s lighting. Even a bad camera can take a good photo or video with the proper lighting. Photographers use light to sculpt a subject in the same way a painter uses a brush and paint.For that reason, I’m always on the lookout for new lighting tools to use. Over the years, I’ve experimented with big studio strobes, small camera flashes, various hot lights, and now LED lights such as Zhiyun’s Fiveray F100 Light Stick.Zhiyun is more widely known for its lineup of popular camera and smartphone stabilizers, but the company began dipping its toes into lighting with the Fiveray FR100C earlier this year. Now, Zhiyun is back with an upgraded pro version dubbed the Fiveray F100.Luckily, we were able to get our hands on one from Zhiyun for this review.DesignLike many other light sticks, the Fiveray F100 uses a slender design measuring nearly 20-inches in length, is almost two-inches wide, and weighs in at a little over two pounds. It has a handle at the bottom with a rubberized grip to make it easier to hold with a small display, scroll wheel, and power button on the back used for controlling the light.The back is lined with six fans for cooling, and there is a 1/4-inch threaded hole on the bottom that perfectly fits a tripod or most light stands. On the side, there is a USB Type-C and barrel connector hidden under a flap that is used for charging the six built-in 2600mAh batteries that power up the F100.Along with the F100 Light Stick, there is a padded case and a few light modifiers which helps set it apart from the previous FR100C model. The case feels fantastic and has plenty of space for the F100, the included modifiers, and more. There’s even a handle to make carrying it around easier.Speaking of modifiers, the Fiveray F100 comes with all the basic attachments you’d need to shape light. There’s a bracket that snaps onto the unit with barn doors attached that allows you to slide on a softbox or grid.User experienceUsing the Zhiyun Fiveray F100 is fairly simple. After powering on the light stick, you can use the power button to swap between options on the display, while the scroll wheel will adjust the value you have selected.Pressing the top button will cycle you through the three different modes on the F100, including standard lighting for photos and videos, an HSI mode for RGB lighting, and a video effects mode.All of these modes work remarkably well, with the standard lighting mode giving you the ability to change the color temp between 2700K-6200K, as well as being able to adjust the intensity. The HSI mode gives you access to a wide range of colors and has controls for Hue, Saturation, and Intensity of the light. While the video effects mode is very useful for filmmakers featuring standards such as candlelight, flickering TV, lightning, and more.Navigating and adjusting the different values works well, and bonus tip, double pressing the power button will quickly jump you to the first value, the middle, or the end. That makes it much quicker to change the brightness, color, or other settings without having to scroll the wheel for days.PerformanceThe Zhiyun Fiveray F100 is quite small and dimmer than the lights I normally use coming in at only 100W or 20708 lux. However, I soon found that it was not quite as dim as I thought, it was just a more tightly focused beam of light than I’m used to working with.Regardless, I still needed to bump my ISO up to 400 or 800 instead of the usual 200 that I typically shoot at. That’s still workable for most cameras these days, and even though I lost some intensity, I gained more freedom and creative choices with my lighting using the F100.Usually, I’m lugging around heavy lights with big modifiers searching for plugs to power them, running extension cords, or charging tons of batteries to power up pocket strobes. Not so with the Zhiyun Fiveray F100. This compact light stick and all of its modifiers are lightweight and ultra-portable.They can be used attached to light stands or tripods using the mounting screw on the bottom or handheld. Although, I’d feel a little uneasy about mounting it sideways putting all that stress on the screw mount, and despite how lightweight the F100 is, holding it handheld can get a little tiring after a bit. Still, I found a variety of ways to mount and handhold the F100 while shooting.Zhiyun F100 with diffuser and reflectorThat gave me a lot of freedom to play with different setups and I found the modifiers to be invaluable. The bare light of the F100 was a little harsh in my opinion. Although, it’s still useable–especially if you feather it to the side–but adding the included diffuser is ideal. It does a lot to soften up your shadows and give a broader more even light to the scene.I also loved playing with the barn doors and the grid when using it as a second or third light in my setup. Additionally, the HSI mode makes it so much easier and fun to play with colors while lighting. It’s way more convenient than messing around with gels on your lights.Taken with two Zhiyun Light SticksFor example, I was able to use the Zhiyun light stick to add a pop of blue backlighting to the photo I’ve posted above of the Lego Spider-Man bust. It really adds a lot to the feel of the image, and that shot was lit entirely with Zhiyun light sticks. I also used my smartphone to take all the photos in these examples, to show that you don’t need a DSLR to take nice pictures as long as you have proper lighting. The fixed f/1.8 aperture also helped me keep the ISO low for these images.Zhiyun F100 used with a reflectorSpecial note to all of you videographers and streamers, the fans on the F100 run while using the light. It doesn’t seem to kick on that often unless you’re working at high intensities or you’ve had it on for a long period of time. Thankfully, in my experience, the fans were barely audible, even when running it at full brightness.Video effectsSpeaking of videographers, the Zhiyun Fiveray F100 offers a variety of effects lighting for video. These include, SOS, Fire, TV, Flash, Faulty bulb, and Candle. I tested these out a bit and found that they all worked well and some can be essential for creating a mood while filming. However, I was disappointed that there was not a police light setting, as this is a commonly used effect while filming.Additionally, it would have been ideal if there was a way to adjust the speed of the effect, because most of these are just strobing lights of one color or another. Having control over the timing of the flashing would really take this light stick to another level.Battery lifeOne of my biggest concerns with the Fiveray F100 was the battery life. Zhiyun rates it for only 30 minutes of continuous use at 100% brightness. That’s not a whole lot of time and when you’re trying to keep your ISO as low as possible, you’re usually going to want to shoot at 100% brightness.To get around this, I found myself setting up shots at a lower brightness and then cranking it to 100% and adjusting settings for the final photo. There’s also a high-speed charger you can purchase from Zhiyun that allows you to run it at high outputs consistently without worrying about battery life. I didn’t have one of those to test, but it would be worth investing in if you do a lot of videography.If you shoot a lot of still life, you can also use a tripod and longer exposure time to compensate and keep the brightness lower. That will allow you to shoot for hours, as the F100 is rated for a little over five and a half hours when set to 10W.On the bright side, when it comes time to charge up, the Fiveray F100 supports 100W charging through the USB Type-C port and that makes topping it off much quicker.Final thoughtsOver the past few weeks, I’ve really fallen in love with the Zhiyun Fiveray F100 light stick. It’s not perfect, but the F100 excels at being a compact versatile lighting tool with all of its various modes and modifiers. It only lacks a little in intensity and battery life, but more than makes up for those shortcomings by offering tons of controls and freedom when lighting up your scene.My biggest problem now is that I want more of them. One F100 and a reflector can do a decent job lighting up a single subject, but with a few of them, you’d be able to tackle much larger projects.Furthermore, I wish there was a bracket that allowed for the F100 to be mounted horizontally. I often preferred the look of the light when horizontal vs. vertical, but it puts a lot of strain on a light stand due to the weight. A tripod mount built into the barn door bracket would have been perfect.The Zhiyun Fiveray F100 Light Stick is currently available in black or white from Amazon and Zhiyun’s website for $249.Buy from Amazon Buy from Zhiyun

Motorola offers amazing deals on flagship smartphones this holiday season

Motorola has started sharing information on deals available for the rest of 2022. Especially in December, customers have many opportunities for discounts and gift ideas. Buyers who love Motorola devices will also have the opportunity to get coming soon deals for January 2023.Available Motorola dealsMotorola Edge: Buyers can enjoy this holiday season with $250 off the Motorola Edge, now selling at $349.99 because the deal is still on. When a buyer exchanges the older phone, they can benefit from Moto trade-in and get a new device with as low $1. The edge retail price is $599.99. It arrives with 256GB internal storage option.Motorola Edge+: Designed to unleash game-changing performance, customers can get up to $100 extra-discount with trade-in. They have the opportunity to choose between two colors of cosmos blue and stardust white. The internal storage is great at 512GB. Buyers can get up to $500 off when they purchase at the price of $499.99. Moto G 5G: This device could be owned with as low as $14 per month. The retail price is $399.99 but for this holiday season, buyers can get it for as low as $249.99. It comes in moonlight gray color and has 256GB internal storage.Moto G Stylus 5G: Interested buyers can get up to $50 extra-discount with trade-in. The device sells for $499.99 at the retail price but for this holiday season, buyers can get it for as low as $299.99. Enjoy either steel blue or seafoam green colors when you buy. The internal storage is 512GB.See Also: Motorola MA1 reviewMotorola Razr: Buyers will get up to &800 off the iconic Motorola Razr. Get it now for only $599.99. This device is powerful, and it comes with a beautiful flappable design. It comes in three colors of liquid mercury, polished graphite, and blush gold. The internal storage is 256GB.Motorola Edge 30 Fusion: This one is all the rave now, and you could start the New Year in style in Pantone Color of the Year Viva Magenta. Get it for only $799.99 with the Moto BUDS 600 ANC. Buyers can also get it in Neptune blue color. The internal storage is 256GB. According to a previous statement, Motorola wants users to find inspiration for everyday adventures.Coming soonBy January 12, 2023, buyers will be able to unlock the new Moto G Play at the price of $169.99. At that time, it will be available universally unlocked.

Utomik Cloud comes to Android, other devices

Utomik is making games more accessible than ever on Android and other devices.In addition to that, Utomik plans to release several beloved indie games to its cloud subscription even after the free weekend. If a user subscribes after trying the Free Weekend, such a subscriber can get 50 percent discount on their plan after the Free Weekend. They can enjoy the personal plan for only €4.49/$4.49 and the four-person family plan for only €6.49/$6.49 monthly.Utomik claims on its website that the Utomik Cloud Free Weekend is meant for users to play amazing games on their Android devices, TV, and PC. Samsung and LG TV users will be able to play 100+ games, while Android devices owners will play more than 200 games on their devices. PC users will be able to play more than 1,400 games.CEO Doki Tops revealed that for years, Utomik has been “working to make gaming easier and more approachable for people from all walks of life.”See Also: Carsifi wireless Android Auto reviewWhich games are available on Utomik Free Weekend?The company plans to celebrate with five new games that will be released on all devices. The five games are Deliver Us The Moon, Rogue Lords, RiME, The Surge, and Haven. Subscribers will also have additional games in the days following the Free Weekend.If you’re interested, you may join the Free Weekend when you visit this page. For now, Utomik Cloud is available in 22 countries including the United States, Canada, Netherlands, France, Germany, and others.Users can easily switch between their devices at any time. It can be achieved by combining its cloud streaming and smart download technology and smart download technology.

BLUETTI’s users always get more than power for their off-grid lives

BLUETTI’s “Share Your Story” campaign is in full swing. It begins on December 15, 2022 and will end on January 15, 2023. All participants have the chance to win free solar generators, solar panels, outdoor gears, coupons and BLUETTI Bucks, which can now be used to redeem BLUETTI Lifestyle products, besides its previous exchange for coupons.Share Your Story with BLUETTI“We’d love to hear from our users, and want to know how our products can make some difference in their lives. Meanwhile, by sharing stories, our global users can be inspired by each other, and unlock more scenarios ”, James Ray explained the motive of this online activity.All users can participate with a short Youtube video telling their special moments with BLUETTI products. It only takes two steps to join, firstly make and post a short video centered around experiences with BLUETTI products on Youtube with #BLUETTIstory for its title; secondly, submit the video link on the BULUETTI website. Then, wait for the winner announcement by email and get rewards. Whether it’s a clip from a camping trip, a wilderness expedition, a garden party, or happy family time during a power outage, as long as the story related to BLUETTI power backup will earn a chance to win free solar generators, hand-picked gifts, coupons and more.Prizes at a glance: Cash US$100, EB3A, PV120, EB55, BLUETTI T-shirt, BLUETTI Hoodie, BLUETTI mini-fridge, BLUETTI Cap, Coupon US$50, BLUETTI Bucks 3000.Know more contest details, please click https://www.BLUETTIpower.com/pages/share-your-story Since the prizes are quantity-unlimited, every great works may be the next winner of an EB3A.Bucks for BLUETTI Lifestyle ProductsBLUETTI recently added a BLUETTI Lifestyle section to its website homepage as a way to strengthen its connection with its users and show its appreciation for their support and likes. As every dollar spent at BLUETTI official store or other third-party platforms, a BLUETTI Buck is deposited into a user’s account. Nothing lasts forever, and neither do BLUETTI Bucks. They will expire after 12 months from the day they were earned. Typically, buyers use the Bucks to offset their next order after redeeming them for coupons or gift cards. However, for those who are not in demand during the validity period, they will see their Bucks wasted. To make up for this, BLUETTI Bucks are now redeemable for many useful BLUETTI Lifestyle products, including but not limited to the following:  Outdoor gears BLUETTI mini fridge 4999 bucks: 4-liter, it can cool or heat six 12-oz cans and has a movable shelf for separate storage. Two ways to charge: by home outlet or car.BLUETTI tableware set 4999 bucks: Includes a cooking pot, a frying pan, a teapot, a spoon, a knife, a fork, a lock, two cups. Made of hard alumina, they are solid, lightweight and essential for outdoor activities.BLUETTI handheld vacuum 5499 bucks: Bottle-shaped, portable easy-to-use and has strong suction. It sucks out crumbs or pet hair from hard-to-reach areas between cushions or dirt from under car seats.BLUETTI camping lantern 1999 bucks: Rechargeable, portable, waterproof and hangable with a carabiner. It has 3 brightness modes: daylight, warm light and SOS flash. BLUETTI phone tripod 2499 bucks: Scalable, aluminum-alloy-made, portable one-piece design, Bluetooth remote control. It can rotate freely to allow horizontal or vertical camera mode on Android or iOS phones.BLUETTI power strip 1999 bucks: 3 grounded outlets and 3 USB ports, multiple safety protection features for multiple device charging.BLUETTI multimeter 1999 bucks: Safe and accurate for professional electrical testing or home use.BLUETTI brand apparel and other useful gadgets.BLUETTI Hoodie for 3999 bucks, T-shirt for 1499, cap for 699 bucks the same amount needed by stickers, key chain. For more details, check https://www.BLUETTIpower.com/collections/BLUETTI-lifestyleBLUETTI always takes its users seriously and strives to improve their experience by offering premium products and thoughtful services.About BLUETTIWith over 10 years of industry experience, BLUETTI has tried to stay true to a sustainable future through green energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use while delivering an exceptional eco-friendly experience for everyone and the world. BLUETTI is making its presence in 70+ countries and is trusted by millions of customers across the globe. For more information, please visit BLUETTI online at https://www.BLUETTIpower.com/. EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Review: VegerPower MagMulti 10,000mAh Wireless Power Bank (Podcast)

In this episode of the AndroidGuys podcast, Scott Webster and Luke Gaul chat about the VegerPower MagMulti 10,000mAh Wireless Power Bank. It offers a lot of features for the money but does that mean it’s worth the purchase? Read on to learn more and listen to the podcast.What is the VegerPower MagMulti 10,000mAh Wireless Power Bank?The MagMulti Wireless Power Bank is a portable battery with up to 10,000mAh worth of power. With a footprint that’s a tad bit bigger than a smartphone, it travels easily and comes through in the clutch.The multi-function device has a pair of wireless charging options for both Android and iOS devices, or your earbuds. One of the options is designed specifically for Apple Watches so that’s helpful if you live in that ecosystem. Ports include a Type-C Quick Charge 3.0 (18W), In/Out Type-C PD/QC 3.0 (20W), Lightning Input (18W), and USB Out QC 3.0 (18W and Max 22.5W).GalleryFeatures10,000mAh capacityLED indicatorType-C Quick Charge 3.0 (18W)In/Out Type-C PD/QC 3.0 (20W)Lightning Input (18W)USB Out QC 3.0 (up to 22.5W)Wireless Charger (up to 15W)Wireless Charger (Up to to 2.5W)Listen to the EpisodeBe sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInParting ThoughtsThis is a great all-in-one charger for modern smartphone owners whether that be Android or Apple. A number of ports, a pair of wireless chargers, and 10,000mAh worth of battery ensures your day isn’t ruined because of low power.With support for up to four devices at one time, I also like the pass-through charging which lets me charge the pack and my handset at the same time. LED indicator lights are always helpful for understanding how much juice is left.Where to Buy VegerPower MagMulti Wireless Power BankYou can learn more about the VegerPower MagMulti 10,000mAh Wireless Power Bank at the manufacturer’s website where it’s also available to purchase. As of today it’s priced about $70.

Have more fun with solitaire with these tips

Whether online or offline, the card game solitaire is a popular pastime in many countries. If you follow common tips, you’ll get stuck less quickly and have a lot of fun playing this game for one.Basic rulesIf you have never played solitaire before, you need to familiarize yourself with the basics. The game consists of the cards Ace, the digits from two to ten, as well as Jack, Queen and King. The object of the game is to distribute the cards in this order and sorted by suit into four empty piles, the stacks. In addition to these stacks, there are seven longitudinal rows, also called stacks. These contain twenty-eight cards. The twenty-four remaining cards lie on the stick.Note the number of cardsPlayers should keep in mind the distribution of playing cards on the stack: There is one card on the left longitudinal row. To the right, there is one more card with each successive row. Thus, there are seven cards on the right edge. Since only the card on top is visible, players should give preference to the stacks on the right. Otherwise, cards needed for a move may remain hidden in the longer stacks.Points give hintsThe points the player gets per turn depend on the specific ruleset of the solitaire version. Some rules concern placing cards on the stacks: if the player moves a card from the stick into a stack, he gets twice as many points for doing so as for moving it into a lengthwise row. If a card is moved from the stacks back into the stacks, the player loses points. If you play solitaire online and want to break records, keep these rules in mind.First moves: discarding acesIn order not to have to take back cards from the stacks, they should be discarded with care. The basic rule is that if players find an ace in the long rows or the face-up cards of the deck, they immediately move it to the stacks. This is because stacks and piles are filled in reverse: In the longitudinal rows, the player stacks from king to ace, on the stacks from ace to king. The ace can therefore take its place directly on the stacks. When playing solitaire online, the player moves cards by drag-and-drop or by double-clicking.A throne for the kingDiscarding aces early creates space. This allows more room for maneuvering the deck. Since this is in reverse order, players should pay attention to the king cards: If a stack is free, they place a king there. This is done fastest on the shorter left stacks. Then players follow order and suit to place the next cards. By the way, they can move more than one card as long as they are stacked correctly. So in between, smaller sequences can be built. What to do in case of alternatives?If you are in the fortunate position of already having two kings face up, you have to decide when in doubt: Which card should go on an empty pile? Here it is advisable to choose the card to which a longer sequence can be applied. In this way, it is possible to move to the stacks more quickly. If two stacks are empty, players choose a red king and a black king. This leaves more options for more moves.No more moves?If you follow these tips, you should get far in your solitaire games. If they run out of ideas, Solitaire online allows players to view specific tips for the game.EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Logitech K380 Keyboard + Pebble Mouse review

The new Logitech mouse and keyboard combo is here, pairing the K380 Keyboard with the M350 Pebble Mouse. Targeted towards an audience who enjoys simplicity and aesthetics, the mouse is a tiny, ultra-quiet, Bluetooth unit featured in new Lavender Lemonade, Sand, and Blueberry colors to match your setup. It has a unique and super small shape that is something unique to adjust to but plenty comfortable. The keyboard is offered in the same colorways so as to create the perfect combination of peripherals for your home office or other desk space. Both devices feature multiple-device connectivity. You can have up to three different devices paired with your keyboard, while the Pebble mouse allows for two different connections at once thanks to the included USB receiver. Both devices put an extreme emphasis on looking great, with a super slim profile and simple characteristics.M350 Pebble Mouse HighlightsThe Pebble mouse does indeed live up to its name. It is one of the smallest wireless computer mice that I’ve used. It features the all important Dual Connectivity which can be achieved with regular Bluetooth 3.0 and the Logi Bolt USB Receiver hidden underneath the top plate of the casing. A tiny button on the bottom of the mouse allows you to switch between these connections instantly, adding to your capacity for productivity. Additionally, it has an ultra-silent set of switches and a scroll wheel that make very little noise. The mouse is great for shared spaces.The general shape of the casing is pretty basic, but it has some subtle differences that make it special. First off, the height of the mouse slants down towards the primary buttons in a way that I haven’t seen from any other mice. From above, it is particularly bland unless you opt for one of the brighter colorways. I don’t have a big problem with this, though, as it creates a nice look for just about any desk space, and strongly avoids some of the gaudiness that comes with other mice. One thing to take note of, though, is that the mouse is very small. Even with fairly small hands, I had to make a bit of an adjustment to the way I like to hold mice to accommodate the size of the Pebble. But after just a week of use, it was no longer an issue for me; I actually found that I really enjoyed the slimmer silhouette.K380 Keyboard HighlightsThe K380 Keyboard has an ultra slim design as well. With a “75%” layout and round keys, it has a super cool look. It rests nearly flat on the desk with a slight rise like many other keyboards and is plenty compact for use on just about any size of desk. The round keys may be a deal-breaker for some, and it took me a while to adjust to them, but I think they look great, especially when paired with the particularly round Pebble mouse. It has a full row of function keys that allow for screenshots, swapping between paired devices (F1 – F3), playback control, volume control, and a few others, like a caret browsing toggle button. I think the Logitech K380 Keyboard has a super slick design overall for anybody who wants a minimal desk setup, and the functionality is on par or better compared with any other 75% layout keyboard.The switches of the keyboard are not silent like the Pebble mouse, but rather have a lightweight clickiness to them. It isn’t loud by any means, or like a mechanical keyboard, but there is definitely significant audible tapping involved as you type away all day. I am not terribly impressed by the overall feel of the switches, though, as I prefer either a more solid, gratifying click, or a noiseless, smooth press. This keyboard seems to be right at a middle ground that I don’t quite have a taste for.A Wonderful ValueOne of the best things about this peripheral combo is the price. The K380 keyboard can be bought for just $39.99 on Logitech’s site, and the Pebble mouse can also be found there for $29.99. For a combined price of just $70, I think it’s a great deal especially considering the quality that always comes with Logitech products. If you like other compact keyboards from Logitech, this combo is worth a shot, especially for productivity while on the go. Thanks to the size and slim profiles of both devices, you can easily tuck them away in just about any bag. You can achieve a portable, lightweight, multi-device setup with the K380 and Pebble mouse. Not to mention the fact that the keyboard and mouse can be paired to anything that supports Bluetooth 3.0, which includes Microsoft Surfaces, iPads, laptops, and PC.ConclusionI will leave my final thoughts as simplified as possible. The mouse is ultra-small, ultra-quiet, and ultra-simple. These three things put together make an awesome combo for basic on-the-go or at-home needs. The price is fantastic considering the renown of Logitech.The keyboard has a unique layout thanks to the uncommon 75% design with the round keys. The functionality of the multi-device connection is something that should be included on every Bluetooth keyboard in the future without a doubt. Again, the price for a Bluetooth keyboard from Logitech is well beyond reasonable. It isn’t feature packed, and I’m not impressed with the switches. Paired with the Pebble mouse, it becomes an extremely high-value keyboard purely from aesthetics, simplicity, and compatibility. It had everything you need for most day to day uses.

The NFL and Google announce huge deal for Sunday Ticket

The NFL and Google have joined forces in a monumental deal for the exclusive rights to the Sunday Ticket starting in 2023. This marks the end of a nearly 30-year agreement with DirecTV with the move to Google’s live TV offering.The NFL officially announced this deal and is already hyping it up on Twitter this morning. The rumor mill from NFL insiders is this is a 7-year deal giving YouTube TV a huge boost in potential customers. The NFL is the biggest game in US sports ratings dominating other sports with its consistent viewership.What’s bigger than a 100-yard field goal? NFL Sunday Ticket coming to @YouTube Primetime Channels and @YouTubeTV in 2023. pic.twitter.com/I2SWCl1vaX— NFL (@NFL) December 22, 2022The new Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV is set to be available in two forms. First, you can tack on the service as an add-on to your monthly YouTube TV subscription. Thankfully, moving away from complete lock-in like with DirecTV, Google and the NFL will also allow users access to the Sunday Ticket via standalone purchases with YouTube Premium Channels format.As mentioned, this is a big win for Google to expand YouTube TV in both subscribers and its presence in the sports world. ProFootBallTalk reports Mt. View outbid others like Apple with an estimated $2.5 billion contract agreement for the 7-year deal. The NBC outlet also states that the cost will stay similar to that of the current DirecTV charges, which is roughly $300 per year.What do our football fans think out there? Are you excited to see the Sunday Ticket finally out of the hands of DirecTV? Do you think this Google partnership makes it more or less appealing?

Review: Vankyo Performance V700W projector (Podcast)

In this episode of the AndroidGuys podcast, Scott Webster and Luke Gaul chat about the Vankyo Performance V700W projector. What is it, and how is it different from the other models we recently tested? Read on to learn more and listen to the podcast.Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInWhat is the Vankyo Performance V700W?The Vankyo V700W is a 1080p projector that comes with a 120-inch screen. It features a pair of 5W speakers with Dolby Digital Plus but it can also pair to a Bluetooth speaker or soundbar for enhanced sound. The projector has keystone correction, screen zooming capability, and digital control for focus with some features accessible via the remote control.Images can be projected up to 224-inches; it’s designed to work as a front projector as well as a rear one. Moreover, it can work upright and with its built-in pedestal, or upside-down and mounted to a ceiling.GalleryFeatures1920 x 1080 resolutionComes with remote control and 120-inch screenProjects up to 224-inches (18’6″)Pair of built-in 5W speakers with Dolby DigitalCan be used to project from front, rear, and ceilingBluetooth 5.1Two HDMI ports, two USB ports, and audio outputBlue light filtering3-year warrantyListen to the EpisodeParting ThoughtsWe like the versatility of this projector bundle and appreciate the generously sized screen that’s included in the box. For those who don’t plan to move their projector around very often, this one is a solid option. It works well whether mounting to the ceiling or projecting from the rear or front.The projector does a respectable job of producing a loud and clear sound, but we’d likely opt for plugging into the 3.5mm audio port or connecting via Bluetooth.With a maximum size of more than 18 feet (diagonally), the V700W is a great choice for those who like to entertain or have children. The 1080p resolution, bright image, and crisp contrast add up to a bundle worth checking out.Where to Buy the Vankyo Performance V700WYou can learn more about the Vankyo Performance V700W at the manufacturer’s website where you can currently purchase one for about $300. It’s also available through Walmart and other retailers.

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Series 5: Should you upgrade?

There aren't a lot of differences here.

Intelli StepUp 3-in-1 Magsafe charger review

I’ve recently been toying with the iPhone despite my return to my Pixel 6 as my daily driver. This has opened up a massive opportunity to partner with new companies like Intelli. The accessory manufacturer makes numerous charging options including Magsafe. I’ve been testing the new StepUp 3-in-1 for a few weeks and am happy to finally give my full review.**Editorial Note: This is an ongoing series we like to call iOS Interruptions. Here the AndroidGuys team will cover new products revolving around the Apple ecosystem.**DesignThe industrial look of the Intelli StepUp is kinda odd. It’s an elongated rounded rectangle standing on an edge. It’s kinda like you took a block of cheese and cut it at a 45-degree angle. This top-angled shelf is where the Magsafe and wireless charging mechanism lives.Flanked on each side are the retractable accessorial chargers. To the right is a small Qi charger for Apple Airpods. On the other side, is a similar charger for your Apple Watch. Hence the name, StepUp allows you to charge all your Apple devices simultaneously.Real World UsageSo how’s this translate to actual time with the Intelli StepUp? Very well. All three options have functioned just as you’d expect. The Magsafe is well-placed with a strong magnet to secure your iPhone. The angle also makes it perfect for a nightstand or desk where you want a consistent glance at notifications or alarms.The same is true for the slideout chargers. Both the Apple Watch and Airpod options functioned as you’d expect. The charging time and function are very similar, if not the same, as the factory alternatives. Having them be able to be tucked away is a nice touch.All the charging options work as expected. I’ve not had any overheating or funny business at all. Even the alignments are top-notch. There’s no fumbling around to make the connection successful.ConclusionI’ve enjoyed my time with the Intelli StepUp charger. The flexibility of having this be one to three separate chargers is a great addition to any desk or nightstand. It has a modern design and premium qualities.The final component of curb appeal is pricing. At $70, I think Intelli has made a fair assessment of the price tag. Finding a 3-in-1 Apple charger isn’t hard on Amazon or other retailers, but one with the stow-away accessory chargers is rare. You can find the Intelli StepUp on the company’s official landing page at the link below.Purchase the Intelli StepUp Charger with Magsafe

Turtle Beach Atom Controller Review

I’ve reviewed my share of mobile controllers over the past few years, but none of them are quite like the Turtle Beach Atom. As soon as I saw how unique this controller is, I knew I had to have it. Fortunately, our friends over at Turtle Beach were kind enough to send one out for review.DesignWithout a doubt, the design is the most polarizing aspect of the Turtle Beach Atom Controller. It adopts the popular horizontal layout which places your phone in the center, akin to a Nintendo Switch. However, while most other companies have opted to connect the left and right halves with a spring mechanism to lock the phone in place, Turtle Beach has made the left and right sides independent of each other.Since the left and right halves are completely separate from each other, this makes it possible to fit phones of almost any size without fighting to stretch the controller and squeeze your phone into it. Instead, the left and right halves both connect independently using their own clamp. They then use a 2.4GHz wireless connection to communicate with each other, along with Bluetooth to connect with your phone.This is how the Atom sets itself apart from all of the other mobile controllers using this same layout. Besides that, it resembles most other controllers with the analog sticks and buttons in similar places.I will say that the controller is quite thick, although lightweight. If you have large hands, then the Atom will rest comfortably in them, however, the backside could have used some texture to add additional grip. I found myself wishing there was some embossing or rubber on the back because it can feel quite slick in your hands.Another way the Turtle Beach Atom stands out from the pack is by how compact it is when not in use. When not attached to your phone, the Atom is able to slide together where it is held securely by magnets. This makes it the most compact mobile controller I’ve used that’s also capable of mounting to your smartphone to mimic a Nintendo Switch.However, while this ingenious design has made it more portable, the lack of a hardshell case is really puzzling. It’s true a hardshell case would have made the Atom more bulky while on the go, but by choosing a carrying pouch, Turtle Beach has left the analog sticks unprotected. The last thing you want to do is abuse the joysticks on a $100 controller and end up with stick drift or worse.User experienceIf you’re wondering what games and services the Atom works with, then Turtle Beach has a handy list for you right here. I’ve spent the past few weeks playing games from the cloud—as well as installed on my phone—with the Turtle Beach Atom, and it has worked fantastically.The buttons were all responsive and I haven’t noticed any perceivable lag. Likewise, the analog sticks worked well and there was no drift or any issues.Initially, I had worries that when I held onto just one side of the controller that it might feel unstable, but that didn’t prove to be the case. My phone always felt secure in the Atom controllers, and there was never a problem inserting or removing my device.I even made sure to use a smartphone with a large 6.8-inch display and a case. With some of the other controllers using this similar layout, I would usually have to remove the case because the fit would be too tight. It was tremendously more convenient to be able to leave my case on while using the Atom controller.Just a reminder, that just like all of the other mobile controllers which use this design, the Atom will block the power port. You’ll still be able to hear sound from the speakers because there are vents on the right half of the controller, however, you will be unable to charge your smartphone with the controller attached.Speaking of power ports, the Turtle Beach Atom uses a USB Type-C port to charge, and it is rated for 20 hours of playtime. In my experience, that seems about right. I’ve barely had to charge the Atom the past few weeks as I’ve used it.Final thoughtsThe Turtle Beach Atom is the most unique mobile gaming controller I’ve ever seen. While the format has been used by several other brands, Turtle Beach has put its own creative spin on the design and I love it.Editor’s ChoiceThis award is reserved for products, apps, and services which have an overall average score of 4.25 or higher. Graded on a scale of 1-5, our reviews look at a variety of aspects to determine a total rating. Factors which help to create the composite score will often include design, features, price, warranty, audio, battery, general and performance.On top of that, the controller works great and Turtle Beach matches the price of many of its competitors that use a similar design. My only criticisms would be the use of a pouch instead a hardshell case which leaves the analog sticks unprotected, and the back side could have used a little texture to add some grip.Besides these minor nitpicks, the Atom is a great mobile controller for all of your cloud gaming needs. The Turtle Beach Atom is currently available from its website or Amazon for $100, and comes in three different color variations.Buy from Amazon Buy from Turtle Beach

OnePlus will hold Cloud 11 event on February 7

OnePlus didn’t want to be left out of the holidays in 2022. The company has announced that it will be holding a gala to unveil the OnePlus 11 5G and the OnePlus Buds Pro 2 earbuds in New Delhi, India. Details are still left to be worked out but our contacts have shared the Cloud 11 moniker represents the latest technology and user experience OnePlus has to offer.We expect the new devices from OnePlus to again push the boundaries of what Android units should look and perform like. The OnePlus brand always takes performance and internal specs seriously, and we think the OnePlus 11 5G will continue this tradition.The AndroidGuys team will continue to share any new details as they become available and will cover the event as soon as it happens. Let us know in the comments. Are you excited about a new OnePlus device? What features do you want to see?

Do VPNs hide your GPS location? Here’s the inside scoop

Do you need to mask your geographic location while surfing the web? One of the most well-known benefits of VPNs is that they can help you hide your real IP data, which contains some location information.But is it possible for a VPN to actually mask your GPS signal and make it seem like you’re in a completely different location altogether?Let’s find out. Location Tracking: GPS vs. IP TechnologyBefore going any further, it’s important to understand the difference between global positioning system (GPS) and internet protocol (IP) geo-tracking technology. GPS technology uses different variables to figure out where a user is located. IP geo-tracking, on the other hand, only utilizes a single piece of information to determine where the connection is coming from. GPS LocationThe accuracy of a GPS location depends on the technology of the devices used to measure it. It’s possible to narrow down a person’s location with 95% accuracy using GPS technology. In some cases, you can even establish the exact location of something or someone within one centimeter. But, how exactly do these devices work?A GPS provides the exact location of a user in terms of altitude and latitude coordinates. This technology relies on a network of satellites, relay points, and receiving devices. It uses information like the time of day and network protocols to determine specific location data, like city and state. IP LocationDevices that track location using IP technology don’t consider as many factors as GPS-capable gadgets. IP geo-trackers only use the connected device’s internet protocol information to map the address and determine the user’s location.Now, the IP information of a device provides a huge amount of information about its location. This includes:Country;State;Zip code;Internet service provider;And area code, among other details.Now, it’s important to note that the data collected via IP is not considered as accurate as GPS. This is because geographic IP information is collected from a public database after the IP number is identified. In other words, the exact geographic information isn’t pulled from the connection itself, but from an online repository. Therefore, when a user changes their IP address, it appears as if that person is connecting from the spoofed location. Do VPNs Change Your Location?So, now to the million-dollar question: do VPNs change your location?This question has two distinct answers.Most VPNs mask your IP address and replace it with a different value. So, if a website uses geo-trackers that rely on your IP address, most VPNs will be able to trick it. Now, if a website or app uses your GPS location, the answer to this question is a bit more complex. Can a VPN Mask My GPS Location?To answer the question above, it’s important to note that every VPN has a unique set of features. GPS spoofing or overriding is not a standard capability. Most VPNs will only mask your IP, but they still show your exact GPS location.Now, some VPN providers have developed features that help override your GPS location, while also masking your IP at the same time.That said, you need to ensure that the VPN you hire actually has this feature available. To find a VPN that can mask your GPS location, you should compare leading providers and choose the one that has this feature available. For instance, if you look at PIA vs. Surfshark, you’ll notice that the former doesn’t have GPS override, but the latter does. Can a VPN Change Your Location on Google Maps?Google collects a huge amount of information, so it can deduce your location using various methods. In addition to your internet connection’s IP, Google can also use information collected from your browser to determine your location. It also uses cookies, your location history, the cell ID of your SIM card, and other location variables, including your GPS coordinates.So, will a VPN change your location on Google Maps? Well, that depends on the VPN!Leading VPN providers offer GPS spoofing, which can actually make Google Maps think you’re in a completely different country. Does a VPN Stop GPS Tracking?Standard VPNs that mask IP location don’t have the ability to counter GPS tracking. The good news is that you can now hire a VPN that has GPS spoofing. This is considered a premium feature, so you won’t find it in free VPNs. Instead, your best bet is to research different providers and find a VPN platform that can stop GPS trackers while also offering any additional features you require. ConclusionOnline privacy is a major concern, but the only way to protect your data is to understand the difference between IP and GPS tracking technology. Moreover, it’s important to find a VPN solution that can help you bypass trackers and browse the internet on your own terms. While most VPNs only come with standard IP geo-tracking, leading providers offer quality GPS spoofing that helps mask your location from all apps, even from platforms like Google Maps.EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement