Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad

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If a traditional laptop isn’t your cup of tea, Asus introduced two new ZenBook Flip 2-in-1s during the IFA 2018 convention in Berlin. Both are based on Intel’s new 8th-generation “Whiskey Lake” processors launched this week, while the larger 15.6-inch model adds a discrete GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics chip into the mix. Both also sport an interesting touchpad.

As with most 2-in-1s, the ZenBook Flip includes a nifty hinge enabling Laptop, Tent, Stand and Tablet modes “or anything in between.” Asus says it torture-tests this hinge via 20,000 open-close cycles to make sure your ZenBook Flip never stays locked in one position. This hinge also lifts and tilts the keyboard area when opened beyond 135 degrees for the ideal typing experience.

According to the specifications, the 13.3-inch model’s port complement depends on whether it includes a world-facing Full HD camera. If so, it offers two USB-C ports and an audio combo jack. If not, that list expands to two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one HDMI port, and one audio combo jack. The list is somewhat different with the 15.6-inch model, as you’ll find one USB-C port, two USB-A ports, one HDMI port, an SD card reader and an audio combo jack.

As with the other new ZenBooks introduced this week, the ZenBook Flip relies on Intel’s new Core i7-8565U and Core i5-8265U “Whiskey Lake” processors. On the 15.6-inch model, they’re joined by a discrete GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics chip, while the 13.3-inch model merely relies on integrated graphics.

In terms of storage, the 13.3-inch model includes 256GB or 512GB on a PCIe-based or SATA-based SSD. On the 15.6-inch model, you’ll see a larger selection of preconfigured units such as a 512GB PCIe SSD, a 2TB hard drive, or a SATA-based SSD with 256GB or 512GB of storage.

Finally, these new ZenBook Flip units include a Windows Precision Touchpad that can transform into a NumberPad. Simply touch the NumberPad icon on the touchpad and it transforms into an LED-illuminated keypad. This is offered on the company’s other new ZenBooks as well.

Price and availability of the two new ZenBook Flips is unknown. For the full list of specifications, check out the table below:

UX362
UX562

Screen size:
13.3 inches
15.6 inches

Resolution:
1,920 x 1,080
3,840 x 2,160
1,920 x 1,080

Processor:
Core i7-8565U
Core i5-8265U

Graphics:
Integrated
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q

Memory:
8GB or 16GB
LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
16GB
DDR4 @ 2,400MHz

Storage:
256GB or 512GB PCIe SSD
256GB or 512GB SATA SSD
512GB PCIe SSD
256GB or 512GB SATA SSD
2TB SATA hard drive

Camera:
HD infrared webcam
FHD world-facing camera (optional)

Connectivity:
Wireless AC
Bluetooth 5.0

Ports:
No world-facing camera:
2x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (450Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x Audio combo jackWith world-facing camera:
2x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x Audio combo jack
1x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (450Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x SD card reader
1x Audio combo jack

Battery:
50WHr
57WHr
86WHr (SSD only)

Size (inches):
12.00 x 7.71 x 0.66
14.05 x 8.89 x 0.822

Weight:
2.86 pounds
4.18 pounds

Editors’ Recommendations

• Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks
• Asus claims ‘world’s thinnest’ title with its new Zephyrus S gaming laptop
• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip
• Asus gets ‘tough’ on gamers using two TUF Gaming FX laptops built for abuse

Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad

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If a traditional laptop isn’t your cup of tea, Asus introduced two new ZenBook Flip 2-in-1s during the IFA 2018 convention in Berlin. Both are based on Intel’s new 8th-generation “Whiskey Lake” processors launched this week, while the larger 15.6-inch model adds a discrete GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics chip into the mix. Both also sport an interesting touchpad.

As with most 2-in-1s, the ZenBook Flip includes a nifty hinge enabling Laptop, Tent, Stand and Tablet modes “or anything in between.” Asus says it torture-tests this hinge via 20,000 open-close cycles to make sure your ZenBook Flip never stays locked in one position. This hinge also lifts and tilts the keyboard area when opened beyond 135 degrees for the ideal typing experience.

According to the specifications, the 13.3-inch model’s port complement depends on whether it includes a world-facing Full HD camera. If so, it offers two USB-C ports and an audio combo jack. If not, that list expands to two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one HDMI port, and one audio combo jack. The list is somewhat different with the 15.6-inch model, as you’ll find one USB-C port, two USB-A ports, one HDMI port, an SD card reader and an audio combo jack.

As with the other new ZenBooks introduced this week, the ZenBook Flip relies on Intel’s new Core i7-8565U and Core i5-8265U “Whiskey Lake” processors. On the 15.6-inch model, they’re joined by a discrete GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics chip, while the 13.3-inch model merely relies on integrated graphics.

In terms of storage, the 13.3-inch model includes 256GB or 512GB on a PCIe-based or SATA-based SSD. On the 15.6-inch model, you’ll see a larger selection of preconfigured units such as a 512GB PCIe SSD, a 2TB hard drive, or a SATA-based SSD with 256GB or 512GB of storage.

Finally, these new ZenBook Flip units include a Windows Precision Touchpad that can transform into a NumberPad. Simply touch the NumberPad icon on the touchpad and it transforms into an LED-illuminated keypad. This is offered on the company’s other new ZenBooks as well.

Price and availability of the two new ZenBook Flips is unknown. For the full list of specifications, check out the table below:

UX362
UX562

Screen size:
13.3 inches
15.6 inches

Resolution:
1,920 x 1,080
3,840 x 2,160
1,920 x 1,080

Processor:
Core i7-8565U
Core i5-8265U

Graphics:
Integrated
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q

Memory:
8GB or 16GB
LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
16GB
DDR4 @ 2,400MHz

Storage:
256GB or 512GB PCIe SSD
256GB or 512GB SATA SSD
512GB PCIe SSD
256GB or 512GB SATA SSD
2TB SATA hard drive

Camera:
HD infrared webcam
FHD world-facing camera (optional)

Connectivity:
Wireless AC
Bluetooth 5.0

Ports:
No world-facing camera:
2x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (450Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x Audio combo jackWith world-facing camera:
2x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x Audio combo jack
1x USB-C (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (5Gbps)
1x USB-A (450Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x SD card reader
1x Audio combo jack

Battery:
50WHr
57WHr
86WHr (SSD only)

Size (inches):
12.00 x 7.71 x 0.66
14.05 x 8.89 x 0.822

Weight:
2.86 pounds
4.18 pounds

Editors’ Recommendations

• Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks
• Asus claims ‘world’s thinnest’ title with its new Zephyrus S gaming laptop
• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip
• Asus gets ‘tough’ on gamers using two TUF Gaming FX laptops built for abuse

New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip

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In addition to revealing three new “vanilla” ZenBooks, Asus also introduced the latest ZenBook S model (UX391UA) during the IFA 2018 convention in Berlin. Like the other models, this version will ship in variants based on two eighth-generation Intel “Whiskey Lake” processors that made their debut this week. But unlike the other models, the new ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of use on a single charge.

For starters, Intel’s new Core i7-8565U chip replaces the Core i7-8550U released in August 2017. It’s a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.8GHz, a maximum speed of 4.5GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts. The other CPU installed in this ZenBook, the Core i5-8265U, replaces the Core i5-8250U that was also released last year. This is a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.6GHz, a maximum speed of 3.9GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts.

With this model, you’ll find a 13.3-inch screen sporting a 3,840 x 2,160 resolution on a standard touchscreen, or a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution on a standard touchscreen, or an anti-glare non-touch display. They’re backed by Intel’s integrated graphics and either 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR3 system memory clocked at 2,133MHz. This model does not offer discrete graphics.

“For outstanding ergonomics, ZenBook S incorporates the new ErgoLift hinge mechanism, an innovative design that raises and tilts the keyboard by 5.5 degrees — the optimum angle for comfortable typing,” the company says. “With a maximum opening angle of 145 degrees, ZenBook S opens wider than most laptops too, so users have more freedom to choose the best screen angle. And when ZenBook S is closed, the ErgoLift mechanism is completely hidden, so it doesn’t affect the sleek profile.”

For storage, the new ZenBook S provides 512GB or 1TB on a PCI Express 3.0 x4 SSD, or 256GB on a PCI Express 3.0 x2 SSD. This storage is complemented by two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one USB-C port at 5Gbps, and one audio combo jack. Wireless connectivity consists of Bluetooth 5.0 and Wireless AC.

Asus notes that the ZenBook S weighs a mere 2.31 pounds and measures just 0.50 inches thin. It’s based on an all-metal unibody finished with a Deep Dive Blue color and diamond-cut Rose Gold edge highlights (Asus has a Burgundy Red version too). The company says this two-tone finish is based on a two-phase anodizing process “normally reserved for jewelry or luxury timepieces.”

But don’t let its pretty face fool you: The ZenBook S meets the MIL-STD 810G standard for toughness. The company says it also sports an “uprated” cooling design, allowing it to run 41 degrees cooler than the previous ZenBook S generation.

The Asus ZenBook S (UX391) will arrive in different configurations; the release date and price are not yet known. Here are the full specifications:

• Screen size: 13.3 inches
• Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 or 1,920 x 1,080
• Processor: Core i7-8565U or Core i5-8265U
• Graphics: UHD 620 Graphics
• Memory: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
• Storage: 256GB to 1TB
• Camera: HD webcam
• Connectivity: Wireless AC, Bluetooth 5.0
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3, 1x USB-C, 1x Audio combo jack
• Battery: 50WHr
• Size (inches): 12.24 x 8.38 x 0.50
• Weight: Up to 2.31 pounds

Editors’ Recommendations

• Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks
• Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad
• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• Dell’s refresh of the XPS 13 2-in-1 series dips its toes into Intel’s Amber Lake
• Asus ZenBook S vs. Dell XPS 13

New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip

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In addition to revealing three new “vanilla” ZenBooks, Asus also introduced the latest ZenBook S model (UX391UA) during the IFA 2018 convention in Berlin. Like the other models, this version will ship in variants based on two eighth-generation Intel “Whiskey Lake” processors that made their debut this week. But unlike the other models, the new ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of use on a single charge.

For starters, Intel’s new Core i7-8565U chip replaces the Core i7-8550U released in August 2017. It’s a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.8GHz, a maximum speed of 4.5GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts. The other CPU installed in this ZenBook, the Core i5-8265U, replaces the Core i5-8250U that was also released last year. This is a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.6GHz, a maximum speed of 3.9GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts.

With this model, you’ll find a 13.3-inch screen sporting a 3,840 x 2,160 resolution on a standard touchscreen, or a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution on a standard touchscreen, or an anti-glare non-touch display. They’re backed by Intel’s integrated graphics and either 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR3 system memory clocked at 2,133MHz. This model does not offer discrete graphics.

“For outstanding ergonomics, ZenBook S incorporates the new ErgoLift hinge mechanism, an innovative design that raises and tilts the keyboard by 5.5 degrees — the optimum angle for comfortable typing,” the company says. “With a maximum opening angle of 145 degrees, ZenBook S opens wider than most laptops too, so users have more freedom to choose the best screen angle. And when ZenBook S is closed, the ErgoLift mechanism is completely hidden, so it doesn’t affect the sleek profile.”

For storage, the new ZenBook S provides 512GB or 1TB on a PCI Express 3.0 x4 SSD, or 256GB on a PCI Express 3.0 x2 SSD. This storage is complemented by two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one USB-C port at 5Gbps, and one audio combo jack. Wireless connectivity consists of Bluetooth 5.0 and Wireless AC.

Asus notes that the ZenBook S weighs a mere 2.31 pounds and measures just 0.50 inches thin. It’s based on an all-metal unibody finished with a Deep Dive Blue color and diamond-cut Rose Gold edge highlights (Asus has a Burgundy Red version too). The company says this two-tone finish is based on a two-phase anodizing process “normally reserved for jewelry or luxury timepieces.”

But don’t let its pretty face fool you: The ZenBook S meets the MIL-STD 810G standard for toughness. The company says it also sports an “uprated” cooling design, allowing it to run 41 degrees cooler than the previous ZenBook S generation.

The Asus ZenBook S (UX391) will arrive in different configurations; the release date and price are not yet known. Here are the full specifications:

• Screen size: 13.3 inches
• Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 or 1,920 x 1,080
• Processor: Core i7-8565U or Core i5-8265U
• Graphics: UHD 620 Graphics
• Memory: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
• Storage: 256GB to 1TB
• Camera: HD webcam
• Connectivity: Wireless AC, Bluetooth 5.0
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3, 1x USB-C, 1x Audio combo jack
• Battery: 50WHr
• Size (inches): 12.24 x 8.38 x 0.50
• Weight: Up to 2.31 pounds

Editors’ Recommendations

• Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks
• Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad
• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• Dell’s refresh of the XPS 13 2-in-1 series dips its toes into Intel’s Amber Lake
• Asus ZenBook S vs. Dell XPS 13

Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks

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Asus has introduced three new ZenBooks during the IFA 2018 conference in Berlin, and all three are based on eighth-generation Intel Core processors released this week along with discrete graphics provided by Nvidia. The new ZenBooks also sport super-thin profiles measuring up to 0.70 of an inch and infrared cameras for password-free access to Windows 10.

Intel’s new “Whiskey Lake” Core i7-8565U is a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.8GHz, a maximum speed of 4.5GHz, and a power draw of only 15 watts. Meanwhile, the new Core i5-8256U chip packs four cores with a base speed of 1.6GHz, a maximum speed of 3.9GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts. This chip replaces the Core i5-8250U released in August 2017, while the Core i7-8565U replaces the Core i7-8550U chip released in the same time period.

Although all three models include Intel’s integrated UHD Graphics 620 component, the 13.3-inch and 14-inch models ship with a discrete GeForce MX150 graphics chip while the 15.6-inch version packs a gamer-centric GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q chip. These discrete GPUs back a decent 1,920 x 1,080 resolution.

For storage, you’ll find three options: 1TB on a PCI Express 3.0 x4 SSD, and 256GB or 512GB on a PCI Express 3.0 x2 SSD. Memory is only 8GB or 16GB, although the two smaller units rely on LPDDR3 sticks clocked at 2,133MHz, while the 15.6-inch model relies on DDR4 sticks clocked at 2,400MHz.

“ZenBook 13 and 14 are equipped with the exclusive new Asus NumberPad,” the company says. “NumberPad solves the age-old problem of the lack of a dedicated numeric keypad on compact laptops. Tapping the NumberPad icon at the top right corner of the touchpad reveals a full-size LED-illuminated numeric keypad, allowing rapid and intuitive data entry or calculations. ZenBook 15 features a traditional physical numeric keypad.”

Despite their varied sizes, all three include the same connectivity options, including one USB-C port with transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps and a USB-A port with the same 10Gbps maximum speed. According to Asus, the new ZenBooks also meet the MIL-STD-810G standard, meaning they endured tests targeting high humidity, high temperatures, and extreme altitudes.

Finally, the new ZenBooks include infrared cameras supported by Windows Hello in Windows 10 Home and Pro. That means you can log into these two platforms with just a smile (or frown if you haven’t gulped any coffee) without the need for a password.

The full list of hardware specifications is below. A shipping date and price for all three models is unknown.

UX333FN
UX433FN
UX533FD

Screen size:
13.3 inches
14.0 inches
15.6 inches

Resolution:
1,920 x 1,080
1,920 x 1,080
3,820 x 2,160

Processor:
Core i7-8565U
Core i5-8265U

Graphics:
GeForce MX150
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q

Memory:
8GB or 16GB
LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
8GB or 16GB
DDR4 @ 2,400MHz

Storage:
256GB to 1TB

Camera:
3D IR HD

Connectivity:
Wireless AC
Bluetooth 5.0

Ports:
1x USB-C (10Gbps)
1x USB-A (10Gbps)
1x USB-A (480Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x Micro SD
1x Audio combo jack

Battery:
50WHr
73WHr

Size (inches):
11.88 x 7.44 x 0.66
12.55 x 7.83 x 0.62
13.93 x 8.66 x 0.70

Weight:
Up to 2.62 pounds
Up to 2.62 pounds
Up to 3.72 pounds

Availability:
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Starting price:
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Editors’ Recommendations

• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• Asus claims ‘world’s thinnest’ title with its new Zephyrus S gaming laptop
• Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad
• Huawei jumps on AMD’s Ryzen bandwagon via an upcoming 14-inch MateBook D laptop
• New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip

Asus taps into Intel’s new ‘Whiskey Lake’ CPUs to power its latest ZenBooks

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Next

1 of 4

Asus has introduced three new ZenBooks during the IFA 2018 conference in Berlin, and all three are based on eighth-generation Intel Core processors released this week along with discrete graphics provided by Nvidia. The new ZenBooks also sport super-thin profiles measuring up to 0.70 of an inch and infrared cameras for password-free access to Windows 10.

Intel’s new “Whiskey Lake” Core i7-8565U is a four-core chip with a base speed of 1.8GHz, a maximum speed of 4.5GHz, and a power draw of only 15 watts. Meanwhile, the new Core i5-8256U chip packs four cores with a base speed of 1.6GHz, a maximum speed of 3.9GHz, and a power draw of 15 watts. This chip replaces the Core i5-8250U released in August 2017, while the Core i7-8565U replaces the Core i7-8550U chip released in the same time period.

Although all three models include Intel’s integrated UHD Graphics 620 component, the 13.3-inch and 14-inch models ship with a discrete GeForce MX150 graphics chip while the 15.6-inch version packs a gamer-centric GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q chip. These discrete GPUs back a decent 1,920 x 1,080 resolution.

For storage, you’ll find three options: 1TB on a PCI Express 3.0 x4 SSD, and 256GB or 512GB on a PCI Express 3.0 x2 SSD. Memory is only 8GB or 16GB, although the two smaller units rely on LPDDR3 sticks clocked at 2,133MHz, while the 15.6-inch model relies on DDR4 sticks clocked at 2,400MHz.

“ZenBook 13 and 14 are equipped with the exclusive new Asus NumberPad,” the company says. “NumberPad solves the age-old problem of the lack of a dedicated numeric keypad on compact laptops. Tapping the NumberPad icon at the top right corner of the touchpad reveals a full-size LED-illuminated numeric keypad, allowing rapid and intuitive data entry or calculations. ZenBook 15 features a traditional physical numeric keypad.”

Despite their varied sizes, all three include the same connectivity options, including one USB-C port with transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps and a USB-A port with the same 10Gbps maximum speed. According to Asus, the new ZenBooks also meet the MIL-STD-810G standard, meaning they endured tests targeting high humidity, high temperatures, and extreme altitudes.

Finally, the new ZenBooks include infrared cameras supported by Windows Hello in Windows 10 Home and Pro. That means you can log into these two platforms with just a smile (or frown if you haven’t gulped any coffee) without the need for a password.

The full list of hardware specifications is below. A shipping date and price for all three models is unknown.

UX333FN
UX433FN
UX533FD

Screen size:
13.3 inches
14.0 inches
15.6 inches

Resolution:
1,920 x 1,080
1,920 x 1,080
3,820 x 2,160

Processor:
Core i7-8565U
Core i5-8265U

Graphics:
GeForce MX150
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q

Memory:
8GB or 16GB
LPDDR3 @ 2,133MHz
8GB or 16GB
DDR4 @ 2,400MHz

Storage:
256GB to 1TB

Camera:
3D IR HD

Connectivity:
Wireless AC
Bluetooth 5.0

Ports:
1x USB-C (10Gbps)
1x USB-A (10Gbps)
1x USB-A (480Mbps)
1x HDMI
1x Micro SD
1x Audio combo jack

Battery:
50WHr
73WHr

Size (inches):
11.88 x 7.44 x 0.66
12.55 x 7.83 x 0.62
13.93 x 8.66 x 0.70

Weight:
Up to 2.62 pounds
Up to 2.62 pounds
Up to 3.72 pounds

Availability:
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Starting price:
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Editors’ Recommendations

• Dell’s new Inspiron 2-in-1 PCs, premium Inspiron 2-in-1 Chromebook debut at IFA
• Asus claims ‘world’s thinnest’ title with its new Zephyrus S gaming laptop
• Touchpad on the new Asus ZenBook Flip turns into an LED-illuminated NumberPad
• Huawei jumps on AMD’s Ryzen bandwagon via an upcoming 14-inch MateBook D laptop
• New Asus ZenBook S promises up to 20 hours of life without a Snapdragon chip

Google’s Titan Key ensures your phone and apps are virtually unhackable

Google is exceptionally good at ensuring your account is not accessed by a malicious character. The tech giant has a 99.9 percent success rate when it comes to preventing unauthorized access to its accounts, even when its confirmed with a password and phone number. But for Google, 99.9 percent is not enough: It wants to block all malicious attempts.

To meet its goal, Google released Titan Key, its first security key kit for consumers. Titan Key is used as a secondary verification method that is used in addition to your regular Google password. The Titan Key kit includes a USB-A key as well as a Bluetooth Low Energy key, and it’s more secure than other two-step authentication methods such as codes sent via text messaging or email that can be intercepted by hackers.

Setting up the Titan Key is painless. To set up on a computer, you will need to use Google’s Chrome browser, head to the Titan Key setup site, and follow the directions on using a Security Key for two-step verification. The process takes a few minutes, but you’ll want to set up both security keys at the same time.

Once your security keys are paired to your web account, you can now start setting up the keys to work on your smartphone. You may need to log out of your Google account and sign back in, then follow the directions for two-step verification. When prompted, select the Bluetooth option and follow the directions to pair your key. In the near future, Android users will be able to quickly pair the Titan Key via NFC.

iPhone users will need to install Google Smart Lock to pair their keys. When prompted, sign into your Google account and click the BLE key to begin pairing. It’s worth noting that Titan Key is not compatible with Apple’s default Mail app, so you’ll need to install Google’s Gmail or Inbox by Gmail apps.

Still, the Titan Key is not only limited to Google services. Since the Key supports the FIDO (Fast ID Online) standard, you can use it with any website that allows you to use a security key for two-step verification. There’s a growing number of sites that support this, including Facebook, Twitter, Salesforce, Stripe, and Dropbox. Expect more sites to support security key authentication in the future as people become more comfortable with the technology.

Titan Key is available now on the Google Store. The Titan Key kit sells for $50 and includes a USB-A security key, Bluetooth Low Energy security key (that charges via MicroUSB), a USB-A to USB-C adapter, and MicroUSB cable. 

Editors’ Recommendations

• Google offers its own ‘Titan’ USB security key for password-free logins
• Boost your iPhone’s security just by tapping it against this gadget
• Attacker stole user data from Reddit through employee accounts
• Your body heat can help attackers steal your password in new attack
• August smart locks open new doors for Airbnb hosts and guests

Google’s Titan Key ensures your phone and apps are virtually unhackable

Google is exceptionally good at ensuring your account is not accessed by a malicious character. The tech giant has a 99.9 percent success rate when it comes to preventing unauthorized access to its accounts, even when its confirmed with a password and phone number. But for Google, 99.9 percent is not enough: It wants to block all malicious attempts.

To meet its goal, Google released Titan Key, its first security key kit for consumers. Titan Key is used as a secondary verification method that is used in addition to your regular Google password. The Titan Key kit includes a USB-A key as well as a Bluetooth Low Energy key, and it’s more secure than other two-step authentication methods such as codes sent via text messaging or email that can be intercepted by hackers.

Setting up the Titan Key is painless. To set up on a computer, you will need to use Google’s Chrome browser, head to the Titan Key setup site, and follow the directions on using a Security Key for two-step verification. The process takes a few minutes, but you’ll want to set up both security keys at the same time.

Once your security keys are paired to your web account, you can now start setting up the keys to work on your smartphone. You may need to log out of your Google account and sign back in, then follow the directions for two-step verification. When prompted, select the Bluetooth option and follow the directions to pair your key. In the near future, Android users will be able to quickly pair the Titan Key via NFC.

iPhone users will need to install Google Smart Lock to pair their keys. When prompted, sign into your Google account and click the BLE key to begin pairing. It’s worth noting that Titan Key is not compatible with Apple’s default Mail app, so you’ll need to install Google’s Gmail or Inbox by Gmail apps.

Still, the Titan Key is not only limited to Google services. Since the Key supports the FIDO (Fast ID Online) standard, you can use it with any website that allows you to use a security key for two-step verification. There’s a growing number of sites that support this, including Facebook, Twitter, Salesforce, Stripe, and Dropbox. Expect more sites to support security key authentication in the future as people become more comfortable with the technology.

Titan Key is available now on the Google Store. The Titan Key kit sells for $50 and includes a USB-A security key, Bluetooth Low Energy security key (that charges via MicroUSB), a USB-A to USB-C adapter, and MicroUSB cable. 

Editors’ Recommendations

• Google offers its own ‘Titan’ USB security key for password-free logins
• Boost your iPhone’s security just by tapping it against this gadget
• Attacker stole user data from Reddit through employee accounts
• Your body heat can help attackers steal your password in new attack
• August smart locks open new doors for Airbnb hosts and guests

Ultimate Ears Announces New BOOM 3 and MEGABOOM 3 Speakers With Magic Button and Apple Music Playlist Support

Popular speaker company Ultimate Ears today announced the launch of the two newest speakers in its product lineup, the BOOM 3 and the MEGABOOM 3. Like all Ultimate Ears speakers, the BOOM 3 and MEGABOOM 3 are portable, waterproof speakers that can be used in a variety of conditions and are perfect for the pool or the beach.

Compared to previous-generation speakers, the BOOM 3 and MEGABOOM 3 use new two-toned high-performance fabric that’s ultra tough and was originally designed for purposes like motorcycle jackets and fire equipment.

The speakers also include a new Magic Button at the top of the enclosure for easier access to music controls, while MEGABOOM 3 comes equipped with deeper bass thanks to new passive radiators.

Design

We were able to check out the new MEGABOOM 3 ahead of its debut, and we were impressed with its fresh design and the new controls that Logitech has implemented. The new two-tone fabric looks fantastic, and the overall design of the speaker is much sleeker because the rubber strap that’s normally at the front has been relocated to the back. This also gives more surface area for the sound, for better 360 degree audio.

We checked out the red version of the speaker, which is vibrant and eye catching, but it also comes in black, blue, and purple. Apple will also be selling two exclusive BOOM 3 and MEGABOOM 3 colors: cloud, a light blue, and denim, a darker blue shade. It’s worth noting that the new fabric the speaker is made from adds better resistance to dust, increasing its water resistance and ingress rating to IP67.

MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 will hold up to liquids and can be used at the beach, at the pool, in the rain, and in other similar conditions. This year, the speakers float, so you can stick them right in the pool to listen to music while you swim. Ultimate Ears does water resistance right and we’ve never seen issues with the speakers in wet conditions.

The BOOM 3 is the smaller of the two speakers and is more portable, while the MEGABOOM 3 is larger with louder sound and more bass, making it ideal for use outdoors. Sound wise, the MEGABOOM 3 is loud enough that at max volumes it’s more than loud enough to be heard throughout multiple rooms or across much of a pool or beach area.

With the new look, the “+” and “-” buttons blend right into the fabric of the speaker for a more subtle design, and, most importantly, the update relocates the micro-USB to the back of the device instead of the bottom so it’s now possible to charge while the speaker is upright and in use.

Both the MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 are compatible with the $40 Power Up charging dock that Ultimate Ears launched last year, which lets you charge the speaker inductively so you don’t need to fuss with a cable and the micro-USB port.

The MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 have built-in batteries. The BOOM 3 battery can last for up to 15 hours before needing to be recharged, while the MEGABOOM 3 battery can last for 20 hours.

Performance and App

While the MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 look great, it’s the addition of the Magic Button that boosts their utility above and beyond previous-generation Ultimate Ears speakers.

Paired with the new Ultimate Ears BOOM app, the Magic Button allows the MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 to work with playlists for the first time. From Apple Music, you can import up to four playlists. You can include self-created playlists or those that Apple creates, such as New Music Mix and Chill Mix.

Playlists can be played automatically using the Magic Button. A long press will activate your Playlists, while a second long press will skip to the next playlist. This is useful if you have different playlists you want to access at a party or while at the beach or in the pool but don’t have your iPhone handy.

The Magic Button also offers full controls for other purposes. Pressing it turns the speaker on, while a second press will pause. A double press will skip to the next song.

You can set up four playlists using the BOOM app, which is required to use the playlist feature. On iOS devices, it works with Apple Music and pulls content from your music library, recommendations from Apple, and preset playlists you’ve created. The playlists feature is limited to Apple Music, so it unfortunately won’t work with Spotify at this time.

On Android, though, it does work with Deezer Premium, and Ultimate Ears says that additional music services will be added in the future.

You can, however, still play music from Spotify or any other music service from the iPhone over the Bluetooth connection to the speaker. The BOOM app also offers full music controls and the ability to turn the speaker on and off, plus it offers an equalizer for adjusting bass, mid, and treble to preferred levels.

The app also provides access to key features Ultimate Ears speakers are known for like PartyUp for linking up to 150 speakers together and Block Party for allowing multiple people to stream content to the MEGABOOM 3 or BOOM 3.

Ultimate Ears says that both the MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 have been upgraded with enhanced Bluetooth range up to 150 feet, and that longer range support was evident in our testing compared to previous-generation Ultimate Ears speakers.

Ultimate Ears’ speakers always sound great, and while no improvements have been made to the sound quality of the BOOM 3, the MEGABOOM 3 has noticeably deeper bass through the inclusion of new passive radiators.

We weren’t able to test the BOOM 3’s sound, but the MEGABOOM 3 sounds even better than previous-generation Ultimate Ears speakers.

How to Buy

The new MEGABOOM 3 and BOOM 3 will be available for purchase starting in September in the United States and select countries in Europe and Asia.

The BOOM 3 is priced at $149.99, and the MEGABOOM 3 is priced at $199.99. As mentioned earlier, Apple will be selling exclusive versions of the two speakers in two different shades of blue.

Note: Ultimate Ears provided MacRumors with MEGABOOM 3 for the purpose of this review. No other compensation was received.

Tags: Logitech, Ultimate Ears
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Engineers build new camera capable of taking pictures in five dimensions

Stefan Heist, Friedrich Schiller University / Fraunhofer IOF

Engineers in Germany have developed a new compact imaging system that’s capable of recording hyperspectral images in five dimensions. This 5D process means capturing data related to multiple wavelengths of light, along with spatial coordinates, as a function of time. The 5D system represents the first laboratory setup in which high-quality spatial and spectral resolution, depth accuracy, and high frame rate imaging have all been combined into a single compact system. It opens up exciting possibilities for security, medical imaging — and even grocery shopping.

The basic principle of the sensor is not dissimilar to the stereo vision that we possess as humans. However, instead of two eyes, which are limited to the detection of only visible light, the 5D imaging system utilizes two hyperspectral cameras operating in the visible to near-infrared range. Because the scene is captured from two slightly different directions, it’s possible to establish the depth information by identifying points on the surface that are present in both camera views. These images can be taken as rapidly as 17 frames per second, making this system faster than similar ones.

“There is a rapidly growing number of applications, which require the determination of more than just one property of macroscopic measurement objects,” Stefan Heist, research group leader at Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering, told Digital Trends. “Whether in medical imaging, precision agriculture, or optical sorting, for meaningful and reliable results, both the shape of the objects and their spectral properties have to be measured.”

The technology could prove useful for taking historical records of cultural artifacts — not just how they appear but also their material composition. To showcase this application, the researchers used their 5D camera to digitally document a historical relief globe from 1885. It could also be used for rapid, contactless identification of persons for security purposes — with spectral information adding another layer to existing biometric systems.

Right now, the imaging system is about the size of a laptop, although the researchers are hoping to shrink it further. “If the entire sensor can be further miniaturized so that it can eventually be placed in the smartphone, end users at home can [also] benefit from the technology,” Heist said. “It could then be used, for example, for the fast inspection of the condition of fruit or vegetables, or for personal medical monitoring.”

While he noted that the implementation of some of these uses cases will “take some time,” this is still an exciting step forward when it comes to imaging technology.

You can read more about it in a research paper recently published in the journal Optics Express.

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