Todd Bernhard

Everyone uses webcams for video conferencing these days. But sometimes you want privacy and to be certain that those cameras are off. The folks at Eyebloc have a solution that is different from traditional webcam covers. Eyebloc sent me a review sample of their Nanobloc Webcam Covers ($8.99). Instead of adding something plastic with moving parts that can break or prevent your laptop from closing completely, Eyeblocs are a peelable, reusable sticker that you place directly on top of the camera lens. 

Eggtronic always makes stylish devices and the Power Bar ($149.99) the company sent me to try is no exception. The Power Bar is a 10,000 mAh battery pack in a rounded rectangular brick with a glossy white exterior that looks a lot like an early iPod or the actual packaging that enclosed my original Apple Watch. Aside from the glossy white surface, the only markings are the Eggtronic logo and two "Qi" logos to indicate the two fast charging 7.5-watt wireless pads that are a highlight of this device. These can be used for iPhones, Android phones, or AirPods that support Qi. Like most portable Qi chargers, you have to push a button to activate it, otherwise it would be drawing a small amount of power all the time, eventually running out.

We are all doing more videoconferencing these days, so the Avantree Aria Me ($149.99) arrived at the perfect time. This is a desktop-oriented headphone for the office that can also travel well. It's ideal for the office because of the clever charging stand that is included. The headphones rest on the stand and charge, giving you one less thing to worry about. When traveling, you can use the microUSB cable to charge the headphones directly. I would have preferred USB-C, similar to Apple's iPad Pro, so there would be one less type of cable to carry.

The folks at iOttie have been on the forefront of using colorful fabrics to accessorize their accessories. They provided me with a review unit of their iON Wireless Go Power Bank ($49.95) to try, and sure enough, it is as stylish as it is useful. It is a portable battery pack for iPhones that is just smaller than an iPhone SE or iPhone 8 but twice as thick.  The first thing you notice is the attractive woven fabric (red or grey) that covers the surface. It looks nice on your coffee table and the cloth won't scratch your naked iPhone, although there is a rubber pad where the integrated Qi charging coil is.