By Todd Bernhard
At the 2018 CES show, I spent some time chatting with the fine folks at Energrid. I'm interested in accessibility because I've designed apps for and used by blind and low-vision users. Energrid also develops products that help the visually impaired; and in fact, everybody can benefit from the VS150X Power Bank ($75).
By Todd Bernhard
The folks at Moshi sent me their new Otto Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($39.95) to review. I've used products from them in the past and they are always beautiful and make use of nice fabrics. This latest item is just as nice, but it also has added functionality I haven't seen in many competing offerings.
By Todd Bernhard
Sometimes an accessory shows up at iPhone Life that doesn't meet any particular need; but once you see it, you have to have it. Technically, you don't need the Nanoleaf Light Panels - Rhythm Edition (starting at $229.99), but they are so cool that you will want to play with them all day. And you could, since the programmable light panels can be arranged in dozens of patterns and then each panel can be illuminated in assorted colors and animated. Plus, if you add the Rhythm sensor, the panels can respond to music and light up accordingly.
By Todd Bernhard
It's time to start thinking about the holidays! This year, instead of boring tree lights or holiday lights that just turn on or off, check out the Smart LED String Lights (starting at $103.96) from Twinkly. They work on your tree, or anywhere, and can display colorful lights and moving patterns thanks to an easy to use smartphone app.
By Todd Bernhard
If you just emptied your piggybank to buy a new iPhone, you may not have a lot left over. But more than ever, you need to protect that investment. Fortunately, X-Doria has a lot of reasonably priced options with its Ultra, Shield and Lux line of iPhone Cases (starting at $29.99). I've used them with previous phones and had complements.
By Todd Bernhard
Now that Apple has discontinued the last iPhone with a headphone jack, the iPhone SE, it's time to consider third-party Lightning earbuds. The SOUNDOT AF1 FM Headset ($79.89) from Blackloud is a worthy competitor to Apple's cheap EarPods. The SOUNDOT AF1 work with their companion app to deliver two valuable features, namely an audio equalizer and control of a built-in FM receiver. Even when you are away from the internet, you can access music via radio.
By Todd Bernhard
Like many dads, I sent my daughter off to college and this device is going with her. It's appropriately called the D.A.D. 2 Defense Alert Device ($129.99) and it's made by TigerLight. The D.A.D. 2 does so many things. First, it's a pepper spray device and it even comes with a sample safe spray so you can practice using it. That's a smart idea.
By Todd Bernhard
Rowkin has delivered what users have been waiting for in a pair of micro-sized earbuds, namely Qi-based wireless charging. The Ascent Charge and Charge+ ($129.99–139.99) from Rowkin earbuds are about as small as they could be, which could make you worry about losing them. Fortunately, the free companion app includes a Find My Earbuds feature, similar to Apple's Find My iPhone app. The app also helps you customize the sound for your liking.
By Todd Bernhard
The iPhone may be the number one camera, by use and arguably by picture quality, but it's still pretty uncomfortable to take photos with. That's where the Pictar One (starting at $99.99) from Miggo comes in. The Pictar One is a sort-of half case that your smartphone slides in to. The Pictar One adds a tripod mount, a cold shoe for lights and similar accessories, three dials, and a shutter button.
By Todd Bernhard
I travel a lot, and I usually carry my iPhone, various power packs, cables and converters, headphones, and more. But I don't want to lug around a backpack. The Axis Modular Waist Pack ($120) from Mission Workshop is a beautiful alternative, whether in basic black, gray, olive, or black camo. It's very well-made and worth the price tag if you appreciate well-made gear. You could even wear it like a messenger bag.