By Todd Bernhard
Whether you can play a musical instrument or not, if you want to make cool music, check out the ROLI Lightpad Block M ($199.95). The pocket-sized block connects to your iPhone via Bluetooth and several free companion apps, and allows the user to play sounds and create original music using the touchpad. Hundreds of sounds are included and you can subscribe to ROLI's Melodics service for more.
By Todd Bernhard
If you want the always-accessible videocam capabilities of Snap Spectacles without looking like a spectacle yourself, there's the PogoCam ($99) from PogoTec. It connects magnetically to special PogoTec sunglasses, or almost any set of glasses using PogoTec's add-on attachments. Instead of a dedicated and obtrusive set of sunglasses, the PogoCam attaches to your own glasses, even prescription glasses.
By Todd Bernhard
I'm a big fan of Qi-based wireless charging. I skipped purchasing the iPhone 7, but when the iPhone 8 and X came out, I not only upgraded, I upgraded my whole family to the new models, so we can just use wireless chargers spread throughout the house. But what about in the car? Scosche has an answer with the StuckUp Qi ($49.99).
By Todd Bernhard
I've been using and recommending the Olloclip lenses for years, but its latest kit is a welcome enhancement. Olloclip was the first to offer smartphone add-on lenses including Fisheye, Macro, Super-Wide, Telephoto, and Ultra-Wide. Olloclip's new offering is the Filmer's Kit ($199.99) which includes all of those lenses, plus a really cool next-generation selfie stick, uses the Olloclip Connect Lens System to clamp on to an iPhone 7, 7 Plus, 8, or 8 Plus. What's more, the kit is packaged in a form-fitting zippered ballistic nylon case courtesy of Incase.
By Todd Bernhard
If you like PopSockets but wish there was a larger version for iPads and other tablets, there is good news from Safetray Products. The G-Hold iPad Holder ($29.95) is similar to a PopSocket, but it is larger and it can be more easily repositioned because it uses Micro Suction not adhesive. Safetray, as its name suggests, is known for similar adapters to help waitstaff keep a grip on serving trays; so this is right up the company's alley.
By Todd Bernhard
I've heard about Matias keyboards, but I first had the opportunity to try the Matias Backlit Wired Aluminum Keyboard ($99) at 2018 CES in Las Vegas, and later had more time to work with a review unit. In fact, I'm typing this review on one right now. It has keys similar to Apple's "chicklet" style keyboards but the Matias versions have some advantages.
By Todd Bernhard
If your gadgets take a beating, consider the Nomad PowerPack with Tile ($119.95). and companion USB-C cable ($24.95-39.95). Nomad has a clever twist on the traditional portable battery pack. For starters, its PowerPack is rugged with 1.2-meter drop protection, it has a nice textured exterior (so you're less likely to drop it in the first place), and it has 9,000mAh of power with high output via both USB-C and USB-A.
By Todd Bernhard
Remember Filofax? For a long time, they were the main way to keep track of your schedule. Everybody had one. Then Personal Digital Assistants took over, and then the iPhone and iPad came along. Well, Filofax is back. I got to see them at CES 2018 and they are embracing the modern era. In addition to Filofax binders that can incorporate a tablet, they have the eniTAB 360 ($19.99).
By Todd Bernhard
The iPhone has revolutionized gaming, but there are still genres of games that work best with a controller. And GameSir has a nice alternative to also buying a Nintendo Switch or other device. The GameSir G5 ($69.99) was originally on Kickstarter; and while I normally don't promote crowdfunded projects because of the uncertainty, the GameSir has already been funded. And as the name of the G5 suggests, they've produced almost a half dozen different models, and I was able to try the GameSir G5 with my own hands.
By Todd Bernhard
If you spent a lot on your iPhone X or 8 or 8 Plus and want to take advantage of wireless charging but don't want to put your $1,000 phone on a plastic charger, check out the Wireless Travel Stand ($59.95) from Nomad.