New circular Chromecast rumored for later this month
The second-generation Chromecast will come with quite a list of new features and won’t even look the same anymore, according to 9to5google. The website has published what it says are a couple of internal images, and as you can see below, the streaming stick might take on a balloon-like appearance (in three different colors!) in its next iteration. 9to5google also found that the next Chromecast might have better WiFi connection, which could mean that it supports the 802.11ac band. Another possible upcoming feature called “Fast Play” will apparently enable the device to connect more quickly to a TV, since the current version sometimes takes a while to establish a stable link.
In addition, Google’s reportedly planning to give the device the power to plug directly into a speaker using a cord, to support a multi-room speaker set-up and to mirror the audio playing on a Chrome browser or an Android device. Finally, the internal documents indicate that Mountain View will be formally launching the second-gen Chromecast on September 29th, along with new Nexus devices, so check back that day if you want to know its final specs and details.
[Image credit: @iannnnn/Flickr]
Source: 9to5google
Gapless playback finally arrives for Play Music on Chromecast
Even with how convenient beaming tunes from Google Play Music to a Chromecast connected to your living room’s audio system is, there’ve been some hard to overlook flaws since launch. Mountain View’s fixed a handful of them with the latest update to its in-house music app. The biggest of the bunch? Gapless playback. It’s something that existed within the application before, but didn’t carry over to Cast sessions. Finally you can listen to Nine Inch Nails’ The Fragile without any annoying pauses between “The Wretched” and “We’re in This Together” — the way Trent Reznor intended. What’s more, the patch notes say that even if you leave the house or if your phone turns off, music will keep playing on Android. Here’s to hoping that music keeps playing if you take a phone call during a cast session now and that iOS snags this functionality sooner rather than later.
More of a Spotify fan? You’re covered there too from the sounds of a report by 9to5Google. The outlet has it on good authority that at Google’s media event later this month, the Swedish music streaming service (a longtime Chromecast hold-out) will make the announcement that it’s coming to Mountain View’s HDMI dongle. How about that!
[Image credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images]
Source: Google Play, 9to5Google
Google may launch the second-generation Chromecast this month
According a report published by 9to5Google, Google is all set to launch a second-generation Chromecast later this month. The device is expected to boast both superior hardware and software when compared to the original, and should sport Wi-Fi ac connectivity for super-speedy streaming.
It appears Google has taken an Apple TV approach with regards to the design of the Chromecast 2’s operating system as it’s believed to feature a “feeds option”, which will give users the ability to select content directly from the home screen.
There may also be a shiny new Fast Play mode on board too, which will enable the Chromecast to establish a connection and play content from paired devices up to two-times faster than before.
Another software inclusion maybe Chromecast Audio. This attribute will permit users to connect the device to a standalone speaker via an auxiliary cable, allowing them to stream audio content — just like Sonos. There’s even expected to be support for multi-room playback.
Judging from the images above, it looks like Google has veered away from the dongle form factor in favour of a more circular design that come in black, red and yellow.
Unfortunately, that’s all we have for now on the second-generation Chromecast, but it shouldn’t be too much longer before we find out more as Google is believed to be unveiling the device at the Nexus event it’s holding on Tuesday, September 29.
Come comment on this article: Google may launch the second-generation Chromecast this month
Google updates Play Music with improved Chromecast integration
Google is currently in the process of rolling out an update for its official Play Music application via the Play Store. This upgrade carries a bunch of stability improvements for Chromecast playback, including the removal of the 3-second buffer period between songs, gapless playlist compatibility and the facility to keep streaming music even if your phone turns off.
Hit the break for the full changelog.
- No more stoppage of playback in between songs
- Gapless playback support now enabled over Cast
- Music will continue playing even if your phone turns off or if you need to leave your amazing house party (brought to you by Unexpected Best Night Ever Radio†) to pick up additional supplies
Chances are that you already have the Play Music application downloaded on your smartphone or slate, so if you’d like to install the update, simply open up the Play Store, toggle the hamburger menu by swiping in from the left-hand side of the screen, select ‘My Apps’ and click on ‘Play Music’, then hit the update button.
Come comment on this article: Google updates Play Music with improved Chromecast integration
Cable cutters rejoice! Get your favorite CBS Programming for only $5.99 a month
If you’re a junkie for great TV shows, and more importantly CBS shows, then those Android TV owners and other cable cutters are in for some great news. Earlier today, CBS announced CBS All Access which is a subscription service that offers everyone another way to cut the cords, without losing everything.
For $5.99 a month, subscribers to CBS All Access will get access to full seasons of TV shows in their lineup. In addition to being able to watch all of your favorite NCIS episodes, you will also be able to watch your local CBS channel through your Android TV. This could come in handy for those areas, like Baltimore, that broadcasts your local NFL team, and every other option is blacked out.
The CBS All Access app brings all of the benefits currently available to CBS
All Access subscribers to Android TV, including:
- Full current seasons of 19 primetime shows with episodes available the
day after they air, including NCIS, SCORPION, THE GOOD WIFE, NCIS: NEW
ORLEANS and more.- The ability to live stream the local CBS station in more than 85 markets
across the U.S., with more to be added as affiliates join the CBS All
Access service.- Full past seasons of 10 major current series including THE GOOD WIFE,
NCIS and HAWAII FIVE-0.- More than 6,000 episodes of CBS Classics in an advertising-free
environment including all episodes of hits like STAR TREK, CHEERS, FRASIER,
and CSI: MIAMI.- Access to exclusive additional content for CBS Television’s biggest
special events like THE GRAMMY® AWARDS, THE ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS and THE VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW.
In addition to being able to use the CBS All Access subscription with your Android TV, those users who are without one, can jump in on the fun too. CBS All Access also has support for Chromecasts and Roku devices. So there is more than just one way to view your favorite CBS shows.
Currently, you can head over to the CBS All Access page and get signed up for a free 1-week trial today. So head on over to the CBS All Access page, get signed up, then jump on your Android TV and download the app.
Source: CBS All Access
The post Cable cutters rejoice! Get your favorite CBS Programming for only $5.99 a month appeared first on AndroidGuys.
[Deal] Google Chromecast only $20 via Groupon for a limited time
Normally selling for $35, Google’s Chromecast is on sale for a mere $20 through Groupon for a limited time.
There’s a limited quantity available, and so far, over 10,000 people have bought one. There’s no telling how fast this deal could end, so interested buyers will need to act fast.
Keep in mind that these units Groupon is selling are refurbished, and shipping will cost you an additional $4, which makes this deal only about $10 off. It’s still money saved, though.
Anyone picking one up?
source: Groupon
Come comment on this article: [Deal] Google Chromecast only $20 via Groupon for a limited time
SoundCloud enters the world of Casting in its latest update
SoundCloud yesterday took to Twitter announcing that the application now supports Google Cast, allowing users to stream their SoundCloud experience to the ChromeCast or any other Cast-enabled device, such as an Android TV.
The new update also brings with it a bevy of performance enhancements and bug fixes, allowing users to have a more quality audio experience with SoundCloud.
If you haven’t gotten the update yet, be sure to hit the download link below.
source: Twitter
Come comment on this article: SoundCloud enters the world of Casting in its latest update
SoundCloud now supports casting
SoundCloud, the popular audio distribution platform, has just added support for Google’s casting technology, meaning that you can wirelessly beam music and other audio files to a selection of gadgets and even your home audio system.
The audio steaming app now supports ChromeCast, Android TV, and other devices which support Cast technology. A couple of speaker ranges also support casting, including LG’s Music Flow range and Sony’s SRS-X77, SRS-X88 and SRS-X99 speakers.
.@Android, @Google Cast & SoundCloud: together at last. Stream via Android to your Cast-enabled devices now: http://t.co/oOe0zwQB0V
— SoundCloud (@SoundCloud) August 13, 2015
Earlier in the year, SoundCloud also updated its app with a new Material Design inspired interface, Facebook integration and some artwork blurring when you pause the track.
If you want to check out what SoundCloud is all about, remember that you can listen to our weekly Podcast through the platform. You can download the app for free from the Google Play Store.
Back to school tech guide 2015: the definitive gadget list for work and fun
Summer is coming to an end soon, and it’s that time of the year when young minds around the country mentally prepare for the change from lazy summer days to getting ready for that 8 AM course that you know you should not have taken. It is also the time to splurge on your essential, and not so essential, back to school shopping.
When it comes to your tech needs, we’ve got you covered! Ranging from devices that are a necessity to those that will help just to have some fun, here is our round up of the best back to school tech you can find.
Media streaming
Google Chromecast
The Google Chromecast HDMI streaming stick lets you stream your online video and music to your TV from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, with support for Android and iOS devices and Chrome for Mac and Windows. Setup is very easy, and all you need to do is plug the device into the HDMI port of the TV, connect it to your Wi-Fi network and follow some very basic setup instructions. There’s also a number of great services that offer support for Chromecast, with tons of new apps and services adding support all the time, and it’s affordable price point of $29.99 currently makes it one of the best media streaming options available.
SEE ALSO: 22 best Chromecast apps for Android
Nexus Player
The Nexus Player is Google’s full-fledged Android-powered set-top box, going beyond what the Chromecast offers. Running the new Android TV platform, this device gives you access to movie, TV, and gaming recommendations based on your history. You can use the included remote to navigate through the menus, or simply voice search from the remote to find what you’re looking for. This device comes Google Cast ready, and if you don’t have your remote, you always have the option to just use your phone. Streaming content also syncs across your phone, tablet, and Nexus Player so you can start a movie on your TV, then finish it in bed on your phone or tablet later. The Nexus Player is currently priced at $69.99.
SEE ALSO: Nexus Player review
Roku 3 (2015 model)
Unlike the other media/gaming devices on the list, the Roku 3 isn’t Android-powered but it does integrate with services like Google Play Movies & TV and arguably provides the very best selection of streaming entertainment anywhere, including both popular premium services as well as free entertainment options. The Roku 3 features an enhanced remote with built-in headphone jack for those times when you want to listen to your shows without interrupting others around you. The Roku 3 enhanced remote also features motion-sensing technology that lets you play games with a simple flick of your wrist, along with game-ready buttons. The Roku Android app lets you use your smartphone or tablet as a remote, and with some devices, also stream local media. A new very useful addition with the 2015 model is voice search, to make navigating through everything much easier. The Roku 3 is priced at $99.
Smartphones
Moto G (3rd Generation)
The latest edition of the Motorola’s affordable smartphone retains some of what made its predecessor so popular, such as its very smooth software experience, while adding a few great extras, including its IPx7 rating for water resistance, better camera, slightly different design elements, and what will likely be its most popular aspect, the ability to customize the device using Moto Maker. The Moto G (3rd generation) is available in two iterations, with the cheaper $179.99 version coming with 8 GB of on-board storage and 1 GB of RAM, with the 16 GB version with 2 GB of RAM setting you back an additional $40, with an additional expense of you are hoping to add an engraving to the device.
SEE ALSO: Moto G (3rd generation) review
Buy now on Amazon
Customize using Moto Maker
Axon Phone by ZTE
Chinese OEMs are slowly but surely breaking into the competitive US market, with some great devices offering excellent bang for your buck. One such smartphone is the Axon Phone by ZTE. While its beautiful design, gorgeous Quad HD display, smooth performance, high-end specifications, fluid software experience, and decent camera isn’t above and beyond what is expected from a current generation high-end flagship, the fact that it is significantly cheaper than the devices it directly competes with, at a price point of $449.98, is what makes the Axon Phone by ZTE a no brainer.
SEE ALSO: Axon Phone by ZTE review
ASUS Zenfone 2
There has been a big focus in the Android world on affordability without compromise, and a great example of this is the ASUS Zenfone 2. The Zenfone 2 caught everyone’s attention with its beautiful Full HD display, solid specifications that offer a smooth and fluid experience, customizable software, and fantastic design and build quality, all at an extremely affordable price point. $199 will get you the version with 16 GB of on-board storage and 2 GB of RAM, but if you’re looking for more, the 64 GB version that packs a whopping 4 GB of RAM is priced at just $299.
SEE ALSO: ASUS Zenfone 2 review
Samsung Galaxy S6
Samsung introduced a major change in terms of design and build quality with its latest S series flagship smartphone, moving away from plastic and going to a beautiful metal and glass unibody design. The device is an absolute powerhouse with its in-house processing package, with the smooth performance helped along by the toned-down software experience. Everything Samsung is known for makes a return here, such as its fantastic Quad HD Super AMOLED display, and one of the best camera experiences around on a smartphone. The Samsung Galaxy S6 is certainly expensive, available at a full price of $599, but you do get to take advantage of the standard subsidized rates with a 2-year contract from the various network carriers in the US.
SEE ALSO:
Protective cases and covers
If you are paying a premium for your smartphone, it’s natural that you’ll want to keep it in a pristine condition for as long as possible, and regardless of what mobile device you have, an extra layer of security is never a bad idea to keep it safe from scratches, and accidental bumps and drops. If you decide to pick up any of the smartphones listed above, you can find great cases for them in the links below, and for any other device, don’t forget to check out our growing database of best cases currently available for a variety of smartphones and tablets, which you can find here.
Moto G (3rd generation) cases
ZTE Axon Phone cases
ASUS Zenfone 2 cases
Samsung Galaxy S6 cases
Android Wear smartwatches
Sony Smartwatch 3
Sony decided to go with Android Wear with its latest smartwatch offering, the Smartwatch 3. What makes the Sony Smartwatch 3 stand out is its onboard GPS module, that lets you track your activities without needing a smartphone, its IP68 rating for resistance to dust and water, and the use of a transflective LCD display, which helps a lot with outdoor visibility. While the device maintains a sporty look and doesn’t try to be like a traditional watch like some other smartwatches out there, this device is ideal for active users who are looking for a simple way to keep a track of their fitness activities. Priced at $173 currently, the Smartwatch 3 is also one of the more affordable options available.
SEE ALSO: Sony Smartwatch 3 review
Moto 360
The Moto 360 was one of the first Android Wear smartwatches announced, and, while it took Motorola more than half a year to release it, the sleek circular device has been well received. Featuring a large circular screen, a sleek brushed metal build, and several replaceable bands, the Moto 360 will look good in just about any occasion. On the inside, the processor is older than the competitors’, while the battery is on the small side, but the device will last a day of usage for all but the most active users, and you get one of the better charging implementations around. The Moto 360 is a great choice if style is your biggest priority, and is currently priced at just $149.
SEE ALSO: Moto 360 review
LG Watch Urbane
LG has been at the forefront of the Android Wear smartwatch evolution, starting from the reference model-like nature of the LG G Watch, to its first round face smartwatch, the G Watch R, culminating to its latest, and most expensive, offering, the Watch Urbane. Featuring a premium design and build quality that gives this device a certain luxury appeal, the Watch Urbane also brings with it improvements in other key areas, like battery life. If you’re looking for a stylish device that is as close to a traditional watch as possible, the LG Watch Urbane is the one for you. The most expensive of the lot, the Watch Urbane is currently priced at $302.
SEE ALSO: LG Watch Urbane review
Fitness trackers
Fitbit Charge HR
The Fitbit brand is popular for a reason, and that’s because their products are extremely great quality. The Fitbit Charge HR is an accurate fitness tracker that gives you useful information like distance traveled, step counts, calories burned, stairs climbed, and much more, while also allowing for continuous, automatic, monitoring of your heart rate. It’s made of a high quality rubber material that won’t wear down over time. It features a small OLED display that gives you notifications, phone calls, and basically anything else that you need to see on your phone. Priced at under $150, the Fitness Charge HR is a great choice to help you stay on top of your fitness activities.
Tablets
Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4
Most of us use tablets for watching movies, reading, and playing games. So it makes sense to go for the very best display you can get, and it’s hard to find anything better than the Galaxy Tab S 8.4. The Tab S 8.4 is one of the few tablets with an AMOLED screen and a super crisp Quad HD at that, with an excellent 359 ppi pixel density. Being AMOLED, the screen will show deep blacks and vivid colors, perfect for games and movies. The portable Tab S 8.4 combines the portability of smaller devices with the screen real estate afforded by larger tablets. If you’re looking for everything that Samsung has to offer in an affordable package, the Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is the best choice for you.
SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 review
Nexus 9
The Nexus 9, from Google and HTC is an Android fanboy’s dream, with it running the purest, most recent version of Android, and always being one of the first to receive future software updates, for at least two years. There are no OEM additions (though stock Android may be a little too minimal for your taste) and therefore nothing to bog down the user experience.The Nexus 9 is just as impressive on the hardware side, featuring 64-bit Tegra processor, a beautiful 1536 x 2048 pixels screen, stereo front speakers (disguised under the protective glass) and a big battery. The device features a utilitarian, yet elegant design, with an aluminum frame that gives it rigidity without adding much heft. The Nexus 9 is still one of the best Android tablets currently available, and is currently priced starting at $349.
SEE ALSO: Nexus 9 review
All-new Kindle Paperwhite
The all-new Kindle Paperwhite may not offer as much terms of features and functionality as the other tablets on this list, but this e-reader lets you do one thing incredibly well, and that is read books. With features that include a higher resolution display with no screen glare, a built-in adjustable light for day and night time reading, and a battery that lasts for weeks instead of days, this is certainly one of the best if you’re in the market for an e-reader. The new Kindle Paperwhite is also priced starting at just $119, making it a very affordable option if all you really need a tablet for is to read books.
Chromebooks
Toshiba Chromebook 2
The successor to the original Toshiba Chromebook brought with it some refinements to the overall design with a sleeker look and a lighter body, a Full HD display, and 4 GB of RAM. The device Powered by a dual-core Intel Celeron processor (with fanless design), and other specs that include a battery rated for 9 hours use, 16 GB storage with 100 GB Google Drive space, and a Skullcandy-branded audio experience. The Toshiba Chromebook 2 may be considered expensive given its competition, but at $279, is still a very budget-friendly option.
Acer Chromebook 15
It is quite difficult to find a Chromebook with a large display, but that search has become a lot easier with the Acer Chromebook 15, with its large 15.6-inch display. The base model, priced at just $219.99 is powered by an Intel Celeron processor and comes with 2 GB RAM, a battery that is rated for 11 hours of use, but the display experience is also hindered by a relatively low 1366 x 768 resolution. You also have the choice to upgrade the processor, and the RAM to 4 GB, which also bumps up the display resolution to Full HD, which would be the better way to go, but will of course, cost more money.
ASUS Chromebook Flip
Finding an inexpensive, capable Chromebook isn’t too difficult nowadays, but if you’re looking for a little more functionality, the ASUS Chromebok Flip could be the device for you. The Flip sports a 10.1-inch IPS LCD display with a 1280 x 800 resolution, a quad-core processor clocked at 1.8GHz, 2 or 4GB of RAM, an aluminum chassis, and a battery that’s supposed to last up to nine hours on a single charge. It also weighs under 2 pounds, measures just 0.6-inches thin and comes with 16GB of on-board storage, which is quite standard fare. The big story with this Chromebook is its ability to be used as a notebook computer or a tablet just by flipping the keyboard around. If you’d like to use it as a tablet, flipping the keyboard around to the back will automatically pull up the on-screen navigation buttons. It’s small display size may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for an affordable 2-in-1 device, the $229 price of this chromebook is ideal.
Bluetooth speakers
Bose SoundLink 3
While it doesn’t offer the bells and whistles that many of its competitors do, the SoundLink 3 seems to adhere to the philosophy of doing one thing well, when it comes to sheer volume and sound quality, this one is tough to beat. While lack of bass is a common complaint when looking at Bluetooth speakers, that isn’t the case here. This isn’t going to blow a full hi-fi system or car stereo out of the water, but given the size, the depth and presence of the bass is impressive. If you’re looking for a speaker to fill the room at a party, this is going to be your best bet. The only downside here is the price, with the device priced at $299.95.
SEE ALSO: Bose SoundLink 3 review
Creative Sound Blaster Roar
Not only is the Creative Sound Blaster Roar SR20 cheaper than the Bose SoundLink 3, it is absolutely packed with features as well. Apart from just playing music over Bluetooth but it also has a built-in microSD card slot that allows it to function as a standalone music player, a 6,000 mAh battery that can charge your mobile devices, and a voice recorder function. Even with this feature set, the Creative Sound Blaster can be found for a somewhat reasonable price of $149.99.
SEE ALSO: Creative Sound Blaster Roar review
Anker MP141
While Anker is a fairly recognizable brand name, the company has its hands in so many areas that you might not know them for the audio products. It may not stand toe to toe with the other Bluetooth speakers on this list, when it comes to sound quality, given the tiny size and low price, the Anker MP141 is definitely worth a mention. While the heavy-duty look and small size might not be for everyone, the price certainly is, and the 20 hour battery life is another plus, and priced at just $39.99, it’s a no-brainer.
SEE ALSO: Anker MP141 review
Headphones
Bose Quiet Comfort 25
One of the best features of the Bose Quiet Comfort 25 is the active noise cancellation that it offers, and Bose finds the perfect mark between it not working that well, or otherwise resulting in a hissing sound when the noise cancellation is too overbearing. In terms of sound quality and comfort, the QuietComfort 25 is on par with other Bose headphones, which is to say their fairly well balanced, but they don’t go overboard on bass. One common complaint about Bose products is that they’re expensive, and that is certainly the case here with its price tag of $299, but you certainly get what you pay for.
SEE ALSO: Bose Quiet Comfort 25 review
Audio Technica ATH-M50X
Audio Technica is the first name that comes up if you’re looking for precision sound that doesn’t sacrifice an enjoyable listening experience for the sake of accuracy. While some color choices run more expensive, the base models of the ATH-M50x clock in at under $200, and the combination of price, sound quality, and build quality come together in a pair of headphones that are more than the sum of their parts. If you’re looking for some more features, like active noise collection, the headphones listed above may be the better way to go.
SEE ALSO: Audio Technica ATH-M50X review
Monoprice 8323
Like the ATH-M50x headphones, the Monoprice 8323 doesn’t offer much in the way of features, but what they lack in fancy looks or included remotes, they make up for in sound quality. Obviously, to keep the price low some sacrifices had to be made. For example, the build quality isn’t exactly rock solid, but given its price point of of just $33, this is an absolutely great deal for the audio quality you get to enjoy.
SEE ALSO: Monoprice 8323 review
Earphones (Sports)
Jaybird Bluebuds X
One big issue with all earbuds is getting a good fit and this earphone aims to fix that by including a couple of different sized ear tips and wing tips for you to mess around with until you get the fit that’s most comfortable for you. Since their release, the Jaybird Bluebuds X have been the standard for what Bluetooth earbuds should do. They offer about 8 hours of battery life, and on the wire connecting the two buds are the buttons that control everything from answering calls to skipping tracks. With its price point of $143, these earphones are certainly expensive, but worth it, helped along by the lifetime warranty that is available.
SEE ALSO: Jaybird Bluebuds X review
Jabra Sport Pulse
While the other earphones listed are ideal for wearing at the gym, they don’t have any exercise-specific features outside of not falling out of your ears. This pair of earbuds on the other hand, take sport-focused earbuds to a whole new level. Starting with the sound, the Jabra Sport Pulse offers great audio quality – it goes a step beyond, however, in that not only are they sweat-resistant, but they actually have a built-in heart rate meter to track your workouts as you wear them. While on the more expensive side, with its price point of $199, the additional fitness tracking feature may be what you are looking for.
SEE ALSO: Jabra Sport Pulse review
Sol Republic Shadow Wireless
The Sol Republic Shadow Wireless is another great choice if you’re looking for Bluetooth earphones, and along with the availability of 8 hours of battery life, they also sound really good. The Shadow Wireless have Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX which enables them to stream high quality music from your device from up to 30 feet away. Sol offers free ear tip replacement for life. The earphones have three buttons for volume up, volume down, and play/pause/answering phone calls right on the neckband as well. The Sol Republic Shadow Wireless earphones are priced at $99.99.
USB chargers and cables
Aukey Quick Charge 2.0 charger
Officially licensed and certified to use Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 Technology applied to one out of the 5 available ports, the Aukey Quick Charge 2.0 USB Wall Charger allows you the option to charge compatible devices up to 75% faster than a standard charger. Multiple built-in safeguards are available to fully protect against over-current, overcharging, and overheating for safe and fast charging. Of course, this charger can be used to charge older devices as well. While the version with 5 ports is priced at $29.99, and 3 port iteration is also available for a cheaper $22.99.
Aukey Quick Charge 2.0 car charger
Like the wallcharger, the Aukey Quick Charge 2.0 car charger is also officially licensed and certified to use Qualcomm’s fast charging technology, if you do have a device that can take advantage of it, and an additional port is also available two charge two devices simultaneously. Once again, multiple built-in safeguards are available to fully protect against over-current, overcharging, and overheating for safe and fast charging. This car charger is currently priced at $16.99.
Anker tangle free USB cable
This Anker USB cable addresses a few issues users generally have with such cables, keeping them tangle free, and offering some durability, with its nylon braided cord. Anker also claims that this cable allows for charging by up to 7% faster than standard cables, as well as allowing for transfer data speeds up to 480 Mbps. The Anker tangle free USB cable is priced at $5.99.
External Battery
Lumsing 10,400 mAh battery bank
The Lumsing battery bank offers a very high 10,400 mAh capacity, which should be enough to charge your smartphone multiple times, and you can charge two devices simultaneously as well. 4 LED indicators are present to show how much charge the device still holds, and there are protections available to avoid overcharge, overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits. Despite the capacity this device offers, the Lumsing battery bank is currently priced at just $19.99.
Anker 2nd generation Astro Mini
The Anker Astro Mini is a very portable, lipstick-sized, battery pack, and is the perfect device to have when in a pinch. It doesn’t offer the highest capacity, but 3,350 mAh should be more than enough to get at least close to a full charge with most smartphones. The Anker Astro Mini is also available with a great deal right now, with the black version of the device priced at just $9.99, with the other color options setting you back an additional $10.
Expandable storage
SanDisk Extreme
The SanDisk Extreme is the USB flash drive for you if you’re device has a USB 3.0 port, allowing you to enjoy fast read and write speeds, ideal for any big file transfers. While the write speeds seem to vary from 55 Mbps to 190 Mbps depending on the capacity, you do get read speed of 245 Mbps across the board. The Extreme is certainly a bit pricey when it comes to flash drives, with the device priced starting at $16.99 for the 16 GB variant, but it is worth it for the extra speed.
SanDisk Cruzer Blade
The SanDisk Cruzer Blade is the cheaper option, if you’re looking for lower capacity options, or if you don’t have a USB 3.0 port to take advantage of. The read and write speeds are admittedly slow, but that is understandable. Starting at just $5.95 for the 4 GB variant, the Cruzer Blade is a great flash drive choice, and with a hole for a keychain ring, you won’t have to worry much about losing it.
Lexar microSD card
The Lexar high-performance microSD card is the premium memory solution for sports camcorders, tablets, and smartphones. It quickly captures, stores, plays back, and transfers media files, including 1080p full HD, 3D, and 4K video, with a transfer speed up to 95 Mbps. While comparatively a bit pricey, with the 32 GB version priced at $24.99, this is ideal for use with devices like GoPro Hero 3 and others.
SanDisk Ultra microSD card
The SanDisk Ultra microSD card is a cheaper alternative to the option above, and is ideal for smartphones and tablets. You get p to 80 Mbps transfer speeds, and it allows for Full HD video recording and playback. The microSD card is temperature proof, shock proof, X-ray proof, and magnet proof, and there is also the Memory Zone app, that lets you auto-manage media and memory for peak phone performance. The SanDisk Ultra microSD card starts at price point of $6.51 for the 8 GB version.
There you go! Our definitive list of gadgets for a great back to school season! Have some suggestions? Drop us a line.
HBO NOW, Food Network, Pokemon TV and more gain Chromecast support
On Thursday, a bunch of apps and games were updated to gain Chromecast support. HBO NOW, Watch Food Network, and Pokemon TV are all among those now offering the Cast button within their respective apps. This pushes content from your phone or tablet directly to a television.
- HBO NOW
- Watch Food Network
- Watch Travel Channel
- Pokemon TV
- Pixlr
- FitFlap
- Catch Phrase Blitz
- Tricky Titans
An episode of True Detective followed by a game of Catch Phrase doesn’t sound too bad.
Source: Google
Come comment on this article: HBO NOW, Food Network, Pokemon TV and more gain Chromecast support
AIVAnet 