By Todd Bernhard
If you want to take selfies, without looking like you used a selfie stick, you need a Bluetooth shutter remote control. But you also need a way to mount your phone on a tripod. That's where the ShutterGrip ($39.95) from Just Mobile comes in. Fresh off a successful Kickstarter campaign, the ShutterGrip will be available soon, but I got a chance to use it now.
By Todd Bernhard
I saw the Grand Xboy 8-inch Bluetooth Speaker ($179) from Xoopar at CES and was able to try it for a while. It looks like a kid's toy but the sound is quite suitable for adults, thanks to 2x10 watt speakers plus a 3 watt subwoofer. It also operates for ten hours before needing recharging. The 360-degree coverage means you can place the Xboy in the center of the room and it can be the life of the party.
By Todd Bernhard
A few years ago, I tried an older version of the Revolver Lens Kit ($44.95–$70) from Ztylus. It was a clever way to add optional camera lenses to an iPhone, but I wondered how they could accommodate the new iPhone X, with its two lenses and wireless charging.
By Todd Bernhard
I reviewed the earlier version of Nomad's USB Hub, and I liked it then, but since then, Apple introduced phones with Qi-based wireless charging, so I had to use a third-party charging pad next to my Nomad hub. RECENTLY, I was able to try the USB Hub - Wireless ($79.95) from Nomad, which was announced at CES and will become available to the public soon.
By Todd Bernhard
I do a lot of typing in my job and I prefer to travel with my iPad instead of my MacBook, so I'm always looking for a good keyboard case for my iPad. Enter the solidly built Rugged Book ($129.99) from ZAGG. I'm confident it could survive a drop; and in fact, it feels like I could use it as a weapon! If the bulk is too much at times, you can remove the tablet portion from the keyboard for a lighter, more compact case. You can also flip the tablet part around for use as a video player or kiosk.
By Todd Bernhard
My daughter likes to listen to music when she sleeps, but she has ruined numerous headphones doing so, and even broke an iPad which fell off the bed, because it was connected via a wired connection. AcousticSheep has a much better alternative with their SleepPhones ($99.95). These are fabric headbands with speakers and a Bluetooth receive built-in. You can choose from assorted materials and colors and despite the name, use them for running as well as sleeping.
By Todd Bernhard
There are a lot of Bluetooth tracking gadgets vying for your money, but there are some specific things you should look for when choosing one. For example, the CUBE Tracker ($24.95) from Blue Sky Homes is water resistant and works with a replaceable battery. That means it's going to last longer than those other guys who have a non-replaceable battery and could get damaged in the rain or at the pool.
By Todd Bernhard
Why have speakers for your Mac or PC and separate ones for your wireless devices? Logitech has an interesting alternative with the MX Sound ($99.99). The beautiful speakers can plug in to your computer using the 3.5mm input jack, while also being paired with not one but two Bluetooth devices. This means you could connect an iPhone and an iPad to the same high quality speaker and alternate use between the devices.
By Todd Bernhard
The holidays may be over, but you still might want to use the iSP100 Outdoor Smart Plug ($39.99) from iHome to make accessories smart inside and outside of your house. Like most smart switches, you can program it to turn things on and off, but this model is geared for high wattage devices outdoors, like lighting, thanks to the 1800 watts of power and its rugged, water-resistant design, with integrated GFI covered outlets.
By Todd Bernhard
Now that I have a new wireless charging iPhone, I'm constantly on the lookout for the ideal wireless charger. The DockAll D100 Qi Wireless Charging Sound Hub ($99.99) from Aspen Innovation is a strong contender. First, it has a solid design that keeps your iPhone well-positioned for use during charging. There's a wide rubberized base that won't scratch your phone or your furniture. Plus it has a built-in microphone. Those features could make it ideal for use as a speakerphone in a conference room.