In an age when almost every form of entertainment seems to involve a screen, there’s something refreshingly appealing about a book that encourages children to put down their devices and start doing something.

Not simply reading, but making, experimenting, exploring, solving puzzles and discovering new interests.

Technology has undoubtedly transformed childhood, bringing extraordinary opportunities for learning, creativity and connection. Yet alongside the growing sophistication of digital entertainment, there’s also an interesting countertrend emerging: a renewed appreciation for physical experiences that don’t require an app, an internet connection or a rechargeable battery.

It’s a theme that feels particularly relevant as Highlights celebrates its 80th anniversary with two activity books designed to keep young minds engaged away from screens.

The Highlights Book of Things to Do and Escape Rooms! Solve the Clues. Crack the Codes. Escape Six Mind-bending Rooms approach the challenge differently, but share a common philosophy: children don’t necessarily need more entertainment delivered to them. Sometimes, they simply need something interesting to do.

Finding creativity beyond the screen

The first book, The Highlights Book of Things to Do, takes a broad approach to screen-free entertainment.

Originally published in hardcover in 2020 and now available in a more affordable paperback edition, the 372-page collection features more than 500 activities aimed at children aged seven and older.

The range is deliberately eclectic.

Children can experiment with making rock candy, learn magic tricks, create comic strips, build box kites, explore nature or put together time capsules.

Other activities introduce cooking, crafts, science experiments, puzzles and outdoor adventures.

The variety is one of the book’s most appealing qualities.

Rather than prescribing a particular interest, it offers opportunities for children to discover what captures their imagination.

A child fascinated by science might gravitate towards experiments, while another might prefer drawing, building things or trying a new recipe.

Importantly, many of these activities also encourage children to develop practical skills through experimentation.

And unlike digital entertainment, where the experience is often carefully designed and controlled, hands-on activities introduce an element of unpredictability.

Things don’t always work the first time.

A homemade experiment might produce an unexpected result. A craft project might require improvisation. A new skill might take several attempts to master.

That process of trying, adapting and trying again is an important part of learning.

Bringing the escape-room experience to paper

The second title, Escape Rooms!, takes a more focused approach.

Designed for children aged eight to twelve, the 56-page hardcover book contains six illustrated escape-room challenges.

Each scenario invites readers to investigate their surroundings, identify clues, crack codes and solve interconnected puzzles.

The premise will be familiar to anyone who has experienced a physical escape room or played a digital puzzle adventure.

But here, the entire experience unfolds on paper.

Instead of tapping objects on a screen or navigating a virtual environment, children must examine illustrations, make connections and work through the challenges themselves.

The format is particularly interesting because it borrows the structure of interactive entertainment without requiring the technology normally associated with it.

Each room presents a different environment and collection of mysteries, with puzzles designed to reward careful observation and logical thinking.

Some challenges can be approached quickly, while others require patience and more sustained attention.

The book can also provide opportunities for collaborative problem-solving, with children working through clues together rather than tackling every puzzle independently.

For families looking for alternatives to digital games, this is an appealing concept.

It retains the sense of discovery, progression and achievement that makes interactive entertainment engaging, but translates those qualities into a physical experience.

Screen-free doesn’t have to mean anti-technology

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of these books is what they suggest about the broader conversation surrounding children’s screen time.

It’s tempting to frame the issue as a competition between traditional activities and modern technology.

But that distinction is increasingly unhelpful.

Digital experiences can be educational, creative and socially engaging. Equally, not every activity involving a physical object necessarily encourages meaningful learning.

The more useful question is whether children are actively participating in an experience or simply consuming entertainment.

This is something we’ve explored recently at Tech Trends in our coverage of helping children become technology creators.

That article examined how coding, robotics and hands-on STEM education can encourage children to move beyond passive consumption towards building, experimenting and solving problems.

Interestingly, many of the same principles apply to traditional activity books.

Whether children are programming a robot, building a model, solving a logic puzzle or conducting a science experiment, the underlying skills often overlap.

Curiosity, creativity, persistence and problem-solving aren’t inherently digital or analogue.

They’re human skills that can be developed through many different experiences.

The enduring appeal of physical experiences

There are also qualities that physical books and activities offer which digital experiences don’t always replicate.

A book doesn’t send notifications.

It doesn’t require an account, encourage in-app purchases or compete for attention with an endless stream of recommended content.

Children can return to an unfinished puzzle, revisit a favourite activity or work at their own pace without an algorithm deciding what should come next.

Physical activities also create opportunities for shared experiences.

Making something together, working through a difficult puzzle or attempting a science experiment can encourage conversations and collaboration that extend beyond the activity itself.

This isn’t necessarily an argument against digital learning.

Indeed, as Tech Trends explored in our earlier coverage of virtual reality in education, immersive technology can offer extraordinary educational opportunities when used thoughtfully.

The point is that different experiences offer different benefits.

A virtual field trip can introduce children to places they might never otherwise visit.

A physical activity book can encourage them to explore their own surroundings, make something with their hands or discover an interest they hadn’t previously considered.

There’s room for both.

Eighty years of encouraging curiosity

The timing of these releases is particularly appropriate.

Highlights Magazine is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2026, marking eight decades of encouraging children to explore, question and engage with the world around them.

Although the brand now operates across digital platforms as well as traditional publishing, its activity books reflect a philosophy that has remained remarkably consistent.

Highlights CEO Kent Johnson recently described the renewed interest in offline experiences as a rebalancing away from screens.

It’s a useful way of thinking about the trend.

Rather than abandoning technology, families may increasingly be looking for a healthier balance between digital entertainment and other forms of play.

And there’s something reassuring about the fact that activities which entertained previous generations can still appeal to children growing up in a very different technological environment.

Two different approaches to screen-free engagement

For parents considering the two books, the choice largely depends on the child’s interests.

The Highlights Book of Things to Do is the more versatile option, offering hundreds of activities across a wide range of subjects.

It’s particularly well suited to children who enjoy exploring different interests, making things and discovering new projects.

Escape Rooms!, meanwhile, offers a more structured experience.

Its illustrated challenges are aimed at children who enjoy mysteries, codes and logic puzzles, particularly those motivated by the satisfaction of solving a difficult problem.

Both books are designed to encourage active participation, although they do so in distinctly different ways.

The Highlights Book of Things to Do

• Ages: 7+
• Format: Paperback, 372 pages
• Publication date: September 29, 2026
• Price: $19.99
• ISBN: 9781639626489

Escape Rooms! Solve the Clues. Crack the Codes. Escape Six Mind-bending Rooms

• Ages: 8–12
• Format: Hardcover, 56 pages
• Publication date: October 13, 2026
• Price: $16.99
• ISBN: 9781639625185

Finding balance in a digital childhood

As technology becomes more deeply integrated into children’s lives, it’s worth remembering that innovation doesn’t always mean replacing what came before.

Sometimes it means recognising the continuing value of experiences that have been around for generations.

The appeal of these two Highlights books isn’t that they offer an escape from technology altogether.

It’s that they provide opportunities for children to engage with the world in different ways.

Whether they’re building something, experimenting with a new idea or working through a complicated puzzle, the emphasis is on participation rather than passive consumption.

And in a world where entertainment is increasingly available at the swipe of a finger, encouraging children to slow down, explore and create might be one of the most valuable things we can offer them.

Review copies of both books were provided to Tech Trends by Highlights Press.

The post Rediscovering screen-free fun with Highlights appeared first on Tech Trends.

Pelvic floor health might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about strength training, but perhaps it should be.

While fitness programmes increasingly encourage women to lift heavier weights, build muscle and focus on longevity, the pelvic floor often remains an overlooked part of the conversation.

That’s the thinking behind Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness, an online training platform that combines pelvic floor rehabilitation principles with progressive, full-body strength training.

I’ve recently started exploring the programme myself, and although it’s still early days, my first impressions have been very positive.

More than Kegels

Developed by Dr. Caroline Packard, DPT, a physical therapist specialising in pelvic floor health, Connect takes a refreshingly comprehensive approach to women’s fitness.

Rather than treating the pelvic floor as an isolated muscle group, the programme explores how breathing, posture, pressure management and core coordination work together during everyday movement and exercise.

It’s an approach informed by Packard’s more than 15 years of clinical experience.

The platform offers more than 850 guided workouts, with new content added monthly. These span everything from foundational breathing exercises and mobility to progressive strength training, HIIT, yoga, advanced core work and return-to-running programmes.

There’s also a structured progression through different training phases, beginning with the fundamentals before moving into more demanding exercises.

First impressions: Accessible, thoughtful and encouraging

What I’ve particularly appreciated so far is the emphasis on understanding why you’re doing an exercise, rather than simply following instructions.

The educational elements are integrated into the training experience, helping explain the relationship between breathing, movement and pelvic floor coordination.

The progression also feels thoughtfully designed, with an emphasis on establishing the fundamentals rather than immediately jumping into intensive workouts.

It’s a welcome change from fitness programmes that assume everyone starts from the same place.

Having only recently begun using Connect, it’s too early to assess longer-term results. However, the initial experience has been encouraging, and I’m looking forward to exploring more of the programme over the coming weeks.

The Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness app provides access to guided workouts, including advanced strength training, core exercises and return-to-running programmes.

Caption: The Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness app offers a range of guided programmes, from foundational exercises to advanced strength training and return-to-running workouts. Image: Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness.

A comprehensive fitness platform

One of Connect’s strengths is the accessibility of its educational content.

Alongside its extensive workout library, membership includes specialist resources, mobility and troubleshooting exercises, live Q&A opportunities with Packard, and access to a supportive members-only community.

The programme can be accessed through its website, mobile apps and compatible streaming devices, making it relatively easy to incorporate into an existing fitness routine.

As the accompanying image illustrates, the app organises workouts into clearly defined categories, including Foundations, Advanced and Recently Added.

Within the Advanced section, users can explore programmes such as Advanced Total Body Fitness, Advanced Core and Return to Running.

The interface is designed to make navigating the extensive workout library straightforward, while the structured programmes provide a clear progression from foundational exercises to more demanding training.

For women interested in developing a better understanding of their pelvic floor while building overall strength, the combination of education and guided exercise is an appealing proposition.

Of course, an online programme isn’t a substitute for an individual assessment by a qualified healthcare professional when symptoms require diagnosis or treatment.

Black Friday offer: 30% off annual and gift memberships

For anyone considering trying Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness, or gifting a membership to someone else, the company has confirmed a 30% Black Friday discount on both annual memberships and 12-month digital gift memberships.

The promotion runs from November 16–30, 2026, reducing the regular price from $180 to $126 when using the promotional code BFPR26 at checkout.

The digital gift membership is particularly convenient for holiday gifting. Unlike a recurring subscription, it’s a one-time purchase with no automatic renewal, and recipients have 90 days to activate their membership.

Gift memberships can be purchased directly through the Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness gift membership checkout.

The promotional code is already active, although the advertised Black Friday offer officially runs from November 16 through November 30.

For anyone looking for a practical wellness gift this holiday season, the discounted digital membership offers a full year of access without requiring the recipient to commit to an ongoing subscription.

A promising start

It’s refreshing to see a fitness platform treating pelvic floor health as an integral part of strength and movement rather than an afterthought.

Connect’s combination of specialist knowledge, structured progression and accessible digital delivery makes for an interesting approach to women’s fitness.

My experience so far has been very positive, particularly the attention given to education and the foundations of movement.

I’ll be continuing to explore the programme and look forward to sharing a more detailed assessment as I progress.

For now, Connect is certainly worth a closer look for women interested in combining pelvic floor awareness with a broader approach to strength training.

Disclosure: Tech Trends received complimentary access to Connect Pelvic Floor Fitness for editorial evaluation. This article reflects the author’s initial experience with the platform. Longer-term results have not yet been assessed.

The post Building strength from the pelvic floor up with Connect appeared first on Tech Trends.

Racing simulation specialist Thrustmaster has announced its return as an official partner of the Gran Turismo World Series, unveiling the T-GT III, its fifth officially licensed Gran Turismo steering wheel.

Developed for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, the new racing wheel introduces direct-drive technology, advanced haptic feedback and a load-cell pedal set designed to bring virtual driving closer to the real thing.

The announcement marks another milestone in Thrustmaster’s 16-year collaboration with Polyphony Digital, the developer behind the iconic Gran Turismo franchise.

At the heart of the T-GT III is Thrustmaster’s Direct Axial Drive architecture, designed to deliver more precise and responsive force feedback.

The system produces a constant 5 Nm of torque, with peak output reaching 10 Nm, allowing drivers to experience subtle changes in road surfaces, vehicle handling and racing conditions.

Thrustmaster has also introduced its Harmony technology, which adds high-frequency haptic effects intended to reproduce sensations beyond traditional steering resistance.

Two new features are designed specifically for the Gran Turismo experience:

• GEAR JOLT: Simulates the physical sensation of individual gear changes.
• ENGINE ROAR: Reproduces engine vibrations that respond dynamically to RPM changes.

Together, these technologies aim to make the experience of driving a virtual racing car feel considerably more convincing.

Designed for serious sim racers

The T-GT III package includes a leather-finished steering wheel with four rotary encoders mapped directly to Gran Turismo controls.

It also introduces the first native load-cell pedal set in Thrustmaster’s Gran Turismo racing wheel range, providing braking feedback based on applied pressure rather than pedal travel alone.

This approach is particularly valuable for competitive sim racers, where consistent braking and precise control can make the difference between winning and losing.

Thrustmaster says the system will continue evolving through firmware and software updates, keeping pace with future Gran Turismo 7 developments.

A partnership spanning 16 years

Thrustmaster and Polyphony Digital have collaborated on racing simulation hardware since 2010, producing several generations of officially licensed steering wheels.

Previous milestones include the T500RS GT Edition in 2011, the T300RS GT Edition in 2016 and the original T-GT series in 2017.

The companies also worked together during Thrustmaster’s previous tenure as official hardware partner of the Gran Turismo World Series between 2018 and 2020, as well as the Olympic Esports Series in Singapore in 2023.

Kazunori Yamauchi, producer of the Gran Turismo series, welcomed the renewed partnership:

“We are delighted to welcome them as partners of Gran Turismo World Series.”

For Thrustmaster, the announcement represents an opportunity to build on that history while introducing technologies designed for increasingly sophisticated racing simulations.

Pricing and availability

The Thrustmaster T-GT III bundle will launch on December 3, 2026, with worldwide availability expected before Christmas.

Recommended retail prices are:

• United States: $749.99
• United Kingdom: £649.99
• Europe: €699.99
• Japan: ¥119,000

The launch also coincides with Gran Turismo 7’s upcoming Spec IV update, scheduled for release in two stages during October and December 2026.

As racing simulators continue to blur the boundaries between gaming and motorsport, the T-GT III demonstrates how increasingly sophisticated hardware is helping bring professional-grade driving experiences into the home.

The post Bringing direct-drive technology to Gran Turismo appeared first on Tech Trends.

CRUSH! turns the humble floor mat into a playful scented accessory for cars, dorm rooms and small spaces

For decades, air fresheners have largely remained unchanged, hanging from rear-view mirrors or tucked discreetly into cup holders. CRUSH! is taking a different approach by integrating fragrance directly into a functional floor mat, creating a product that serves as both décor and an everyday accessory.

The new collection combines bold, playful artwork with long-lasting fragrances, offering an alternative for consumers looking to personalize smaller living spaces without relying on traditional hanging air fresheners.

Blending Functionality with Personality

Rather than treating fragrance as an afterthought, CRUSH! makes it part of the design itself. Each floor mat features an oversized illustrated character inspired by fruit, animals or pop culture, paired with its own signature scent.

The initial collection includes:

• Cheeky Cherry — Almond Cherry Macaron
• Wild Watermelon — Pink Watermelon Lemonade
• Sexy Strawberry — Strawberry Cheesecake
• Jeepy the Duck — Mango Coconut Smoothie
• Lucky the Cat — Orange Creamsicle
• El Luchador — Piña Colada

Each mat is approximately 17 × 22 inches, manufactured in the United States and produced using bio-based raw materials, with an introductory retail price of $14.99. The company notes that while the floor mat materials are bio-based, the printed dyes are excluded from that assessment.

CRUSH!’s Cheeky Cherry floor mat combines a playful fruit-inspired design with an Almond Cherry Macaron fragrance

Designed for Modern Small Spaces

The Jeepy the Duck floor mat pairs a whimsical design with a Mango Coconut Smoothie fragrance

Although originally conceived for vehicle interiors, the concept extends naturally to dorm rooms, apartments, home offices and other compact environments where consumers increasingly look for products that combine practicality with self-expression.

That broader appeal makes the launch particularly timely as students prepare for the new academic year. Accessories that improve everyday living without requiring significant investment continue to resonate with consumers balancing functionality and style.

The launch also fits neatly into the growing market for practical gifts that feel fun, affordable and useful beyond a single occasion.

Unlike conventional air fresheners that are designed to remain largely unnoticed, CRUSH! embraces bold colours and oversized graphics, turning a normally overlooked accessory into a conversation piece.

Sustainability Meets Everyday Design

The launch also reflects a wider consumer trend toward products that incorporate more sustainable materials without sacrificing visual appeal.

According to the company, every CRUSH! floor mat is manufactured in the United States using bio-based materials while delivering long-lasting fragrance through integrated scent technology.

As brands increasingly look to reinvent familiar household and automotive products, CRUSH! demonstrates how even something as ordinary as a floor mat can become part of a broader lifestyle experience. As with other everyday tech accessories, CRUSH! shows how functional items are increasingly becoming vehicles for personality, design and values.

The sustainability angle also connects with wider conversations around rethinking recycling and designing everyday products with lower-impact materials

More information about the collection, available fragrances and purchasing options can be found on the CRUSH! website.

The post Bringing Fragrance to the Floor with CRUSH! appeared first on Tech Trends.

From emergency preparedness gear to smart baking tech and recovery gadgets, here are five standout Father’s Day gifts for 2026.

Father’s Day has a habit of sneaking up fast — and this year is no exception.

If you’re only just realizing it’s this weekend, don’t panic. Plenty of smart gifts can still be ordered now, and honestly, most dads will be perfectly happy with a card and the promise that something good is arriving shortly.

This year’s gift guide leans practical, clever, and genuinely useful — the kind of products dads will actually use rather than stash in a drawer. Whether he’s into preparedness, baking, fitness, or simply enjoys a good laugh, these picks cover a wide range of personalities.

For the Prepared Dad

Emergency preparedness gifts from 4Patriots designed for dads who like to stay ready for anything

With hurricane season already underway and NOAA forecasting up to 14 named storms this year, preparedness has become less niche and more mainstream.

That’s the thinking behind 4Patriots’ 2026 Father’s Day collection — practical resilience tools for dads who like to be ready for anything.

Top picks include:

• 72-Hour Survival Food Kit
• Blackout Buddy Emergency Power Supply
• Patriot Power Solar Generator 1200
• Personal Water Filter Straw
• HaloXT Tactical 9-in-1 Solar Flashlight

For dads who are the “family fixer” and first responder in any crisis, this feels less like novelty gifting and more like real peace of mind.

For the Baker Dad: Sourdough Sidekick

The Sourdough Sidekick automates starter feeding and scheduling, helping bakers maintain a healthy sourdough culture with minimal effort

This one is a genuine TechTrends hands-on recommendation.

The Sourdough Sidekick, co-created by FirstBuild and King Arthur Baking Company, automates one of the most intimidating parts of sourdough baking: feeding and maintaining your starter.

After testing it myself, I can say it removes almost all of the friction that usually stops people from sticking with sourdough.

Set the day and time you want your starter ready, load flour and water, and let it do the rest.

The standout feature is Auto Mode, which adjusts feeding based on ambient temperature and uses gradual microfeedings to build healthy starter without waste.

It’s incredibly user-friendly, doesn’t dominate your kitchen counter, and makes sourdough far more accessible for beginners.

It also makes a fantastic Father’s Day gift — especially for the dad who wanted to get into sourdough but gave up because of the upkeep. (My own father-in-law immediately said exactly that.)

And yes — discard isn’t wasted either. It comes with recipe ideas for pancakes, crackers, and more.

For the Dad Who Loves a Laugh

A joke-filled Father’s Day pick for dads who love puns

Not every Father’s Day gift has to be serious. For the dads who pride themselves on terrible puns, practical jokes, and making everyone groan at the dinner table, a humor-focused gift can hit the mark perfectly.

Father Humor by Bart King

For dads who truly believe they are the funniest person in the room, Father Humor by Bart King is a fitting addition. Packed with puns, classic dad jokes, and witty observations on fatherhood, it’s the kind of book that embraces the art of the groan-worthy one-liner.

Whether it ends up on the coffee table or beside the barbecue, it’s a lighthearted pick that will almost certainly inspire fresh material for years to come.

Why we like it: It leans fully into peak dad energy — unapologetically.

Prank-O PuzzleBuddy Gift Box

A joke gift box that makes the wrapping part of the fun

Half the fun of gift-giving is the reaction, and Prank-O’s PuzzleBuddy takes that to another level. Designed as a prank gift box, it disguises the real present inside with hilariously absurd fake product packaging, making Dad work out whether he’s actually receiving something ridiculous or brilliant.

It’s a simple but effective way to make the unwrapping itself part of the gift — especially if you’re pairing it with something smaller or more practical.

Why we like it: It turns the packaging into part of the entertainment.

For the Active Dad

Wearable recovery tech designed for athletes and active dads

Recovery has become as important as training.

The DNA Vibe Jazz Band Live Pro is a wearable recovery device combining:

• red light therapy
• near-infrared therapy
• magnetic signaling
• microvibration

It’s designed to help reduce inflammation, ease soreness, and accelerate recovery.

For dads who train hard, run often, or are starting to feel the reality of aging joints, this is a premium but genuinely interesting option.

For the Sentimental Dad

A card that doubles as a keepsake

Sometimes the smallest gestures carry the most weight.

Paper Love’s intricate 3D pop-up cards feel like a gift in themselves — beautifully made, surprisingly detailed, and much more memorable than a standard card.

And if your actual gift arrives late? This is your perfect save.

Final Thoughts

Father’s Day gifting doesn’t have to be complicated.

The best gifts tend to be the ones that align with who Dad actually is — practical, funny, creative, active, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful effort.

And if you’re reading this at the eleventh hour?

There’s still time.

Even if the box arrives next week.

The post Finding Last-Minute Father’s Day Gifts That Dad Will Actually Use appeared first on Tech Trends.

A smart countertop device from FirstBuild and King Arthur Baking takes the guesswork out of maintaining a healthy sourdough starter, and it’s the perfect Father’s Day gift if your dad is into baking – or thinking about taking it up.

Sourdough baking has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years, evolving from a pandemic-era hobby into a lasting movement among home bakers. Yet for many people, the biggest obstacle isn’t baking the bread itself — it’s maintaining the starter.

Feedings need to happen on schedule, temperatures matter, discard can feel wasteful, and a neglected starter can quickly become an expensive science experiment. For many would-be bakers, that complexity is enough to prevent them from ever getting started.

That’s the problem the Sourdough Sidekick aims to solve.

Developed by FirstBuild, the innovation hub behind products like the Opal Nugget Ice Maker, and co-created with King Arthur Baking Company, the Sourdough Sidekick is a countertop appliance designed to automate sourdough starter maintenance while giving bakers greater control over timing and consistency.

After spending time using the device in my own kitchen, I came away genuinely impressed.

Why Sourdough Starters Intimidate New Bakers

Traditional sourdough baking requires maintaining a living culture of flour and water that must be fed regularly to remain healthy and active.

For experienced bakers, this routine becomes second nature. For beginners, however, it can feel daunting.

Questions quickly arise:

• Did I feed it enough?
• Did I feed it too much?
• Is my kitchen too cold?
• Is it ready to bake with?
• What do I do with all the discard?

The Sourdough Sidekick tackles these questions head-on by automating much of the maintenance process while still preserving the craft and satisfaction of baking with natural sourdough.

A Smart Approach To Starter Management

The feature I found myself using most was the appliance’s Auto Mode, which is also likely to be the most popular setting for new bakers.

The concept is simple. Tell the Sidekick how much starter you need and when you need it, and the device handles the rest.

Fill the flour hopper and water reservoir, add a small amount of existing starter, and the machine automatically manages the feeding schedule. It even monitors ambient kitchen temperature and adjusts feedings accordingly.

Rather than performing large feedings, the Sidekick uses a micro-feeding approach to gradually build the starter, helping maintain activity and reducing waste.

The result is a healthy, active starter ready when you want to bake.

For me, this was perhaps the biggest advantage. Instead of trying to remember feeding schedules throughout the week, I could simply plan ahead and have starter ready at a convenient day and time.

More Control For Experienced Bakers

While Auto Mode is designed for convenience, the Sidekick also includes two additional operating modes.

Ratio Mode

Ratio Mode follows more traditional feeding schedules and ratios while still automating the process. This strikes a nice balance between convenience and established sourdough practices.

Custom Mode

For experienced bakers who enjoy experimentation, Custom Mode allows precise control over flour quantities, water quantities, and feeding timing.

This flexibility means the appliance can grow with a baker’s experience rather than becoming obsolete once basic skills are mastered.

Living With The Sourdough Sidekick

Designed with input from real bakers, the Sourdough Sidekick makes sourdough starter maintenance approachable for beginners and experienced bakers alike

One of my concerns before using the appliance was whether it would be difficult to maintain or clean.

Thankfully, that wasn’t the case.

The glass crock lifts out easily, the mixing paddle is straightforward to clean, and refilling the flour and water reservoirs is simple. There are no complicated cleaning routines or awkward maintenance procedures.

The unit also occupies less counter space than I initially expected.

As with any sourdough starter, I found it helpful to keep the appliance away from direct sunlight, but otherwise it integrated naturally into the kitchen.

What stood out most was how approachable the entire process felt. The Sidekick removes much of the anxiety surrounding starter maintenance while leaving the enjoyable parts of sourdough baking untouched.

Making The Most Of Discard

One of the common frustrations among sourdough bakers is discard.

The Sidekick’s feeding system significantly reduces discard requirements, but for bakers who do generate some excess starter, King Arthur Baking provides numerous ways to put it to good use.

From pancakes and crackers to waffles and other baked goods, discard becomes an ingredient rather than a waste product. The included guidance and recipes help ensure that very little goes to waste.

The Innovation Behind The Product

The Sourdough Sidekick was developed through FirstBuild’s collaborative innovation process and refined alongside a community of sourdough enthusiasts

The Sourdough Sidekick’s development story is almost as interesting as the product itself.

The concept was developed through FirstBuild’s collaborative innovation model and refined alongside a community of bakers and sourdough enthusiasts. When the project launched on Indiegogo in 2025, it reached its funding goal in just 12 minutes.

That enthusiasm reflected a genuine demand for a solution to one of home baking’s most persistent challenges.

The partnership with King Arthur Baking Company adds additional credibility, combining appliance innovation with centuries of baking expertise.

A Thoughtful Father’s Day Gift

One unexpected benefit of the Sourdough Sidekick is that it makes a surprisingly compelling gift for the aspiring baker.

When I mentioned the device to my father-in-law, he immediately understood the appeal. He had previously experimented with sourdough baking but eventually abandoned it because keeping a starter healthy required more time and attention than he could realistically commit to.

That reaction highlights exactly why the Sidekick exists. Many people are interested in sourdough baking, but the ongoing maintenance of the starter becomes a barrier. By automating that process, the device makes the hobby accessible again.

With Father’s Day approaching, the Sidekick strikes an unusual balance between practicality and novelty. It is not a gadget that ends up forgotten in a cupboard; it actively enables a hobby that many people would otherwise struggle to maintain.

For fathers, grandfathers, and anyone who has always wanted to bake sourdough but found the starter management intimidating, it could be one of the most thoughtful kitchen gifts of the year.

Review Verdict

Pros

• Extremely easy to use
• Flexible scheduling
• Healthy, reliable starter production
• Temperature-aware feeding adjustments
• Minimal cleaning required
• Reduces starter maintenance anxiety
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced bakers

Cons

• Premium price point at $179.99
• Best value for people who bake regularly

Final Thoughts

The Sourdough Sidekick succeeds because it solves a real problem.

Rather than trying to reinvent sourdough baking, it removes one of the biggest barriers preventing people from enjoying it in the first place.

For experienced bakers, it offers convenience and consistency. For beginners, it removes much of the intimidation factor surrounding starter maintenance.

Most importantly, it makes sourdough baking feel accessible.

If you’ve ever been curious about baking sourdough but were put off by the commitment required to maintain a starter, the Sourdough Sidekick may be one of the most practical kitchen innovations you’ll buy this year.

The post Making Sourdough Baking Accessible appeared first on Tech Trends.

Easter baskets aren’t just for chocolate anymore. Many families now include practical items, small gifts, and lifestyle products that can be used year-round. From travel-friendly first aid kits to specialty coffee gear and artisan treats, this year’s Easter gift guide focuses on gifts that are fun, useful, and a little unexpected. From practical gadgets to sweet treats and creative gifts, these Easter basket ideas bring together fun, useful, and thoughtful presents for kids, parents, and families alike.

Below are some standout gift ideas perfect for Easter, spring celebrations, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.

Practical Gifts for Families and Travel

KEEP>GOING First Aid MiniKit

KEEP GOING First Aid MiniKit travel first aid kit with bandages wipes and supplies

The KEEP>GOING First Aid MiniKit is one of those gifts that parents will appreciate far more than another chocolate bunny. The compact kit includes essential supplies like bandages, wipes, and basic first aid items in a small, travel-friendly case that can easily fit into a backpack, car glove compartment, or travel bag.

With colorful designs and multiple size options, the kit is especially useful for families heading into spring activities, outdoor trips, sports, and travel.

Learn more: https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/

Lil’ Chillys Gel Ice Packs

Lil’ Chillys gel ice packs are designed for kids and come in bright, fun shapes that make minor bumps and bruises a little less dramatic. They’re small enough for children to hold comfortably and are ideal for playground trips, sports, and outdoor Easter egg hunts.

Learn more: https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes provide gentle cleaning using natural soap and water in convenient travel packets

Handzies wipes are individually packaged wipes that combine soap and water in a biodegradable towelette. Unlike many wipes and sanitizers, they don’t rely on harsh chemicals or alcohol, making them a gentler option for families.

They’re particularly useful for travel, picnics, egg hunts, and spring outings when access to a sink isn’t available.

Learn more: http://handzies.com/

Food and Treat Gifts

CAKED Cookies and Brownies

CAKED offers handcrafted cookies and brownies made fresh to order and individually wrapped for sharing. Seasonal flavors like lemon poppyseed and carrot cake make them especially appropriate for spring and Easter celebrations.

They’re ideal for Easter baskets, brunch gatherings, or sending as gifts to friends and family.

Learn more: https://caked.love/

Antonina’s Gluten-Free Muffins

Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery offers muffins that are gluten-free, peanut-free, and nut-free, making them a great option for families dealing with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Learn more: https://antoninasglutenfreebakery.com/

Wellness and Beauty Gifts

Honeydew Sleep Mulberry Silk Sleep Mask

Made from high-grade mulberry silk, Honeydew Sleep masks are designed to block light completely while remaining soft and comfortable on the skin.

Learn more: https://honeydewsleep.com/

Hippotanicals Vegan Lip Balms

Hippotanicals lip balms are plant-based and packaged in biodegradable tubes, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional lip balm packaging.

Learn more: https://hippotanicals.com

Games and Entertainment

Truth Sleuth Trivia Game

Truth Sleuth is a trivia-based party game built around “two truths and a lie,” making it easy to play with family or friends.

Available on Amazon

Nautilus Wooden Puzzle Mini

Nautilus wooden puzzles are precision laser-cut puzzles made from FSC-certified wood and designed for travel and short puzzle sessions.

Learn more: https://nautiluspuzzles.com/

Fashion and Accessories

KEYSOCKS

KEYSOCKS are designed to stay in place while remaining hidden inside shoes like flats, loafers, and sneakers, preventing blisters and improving comfort.

Learn more: https://keysocks.com/

WESTY Sunglasses

WESTY sunglasses are handcrafted in Osaka using titanium frames and polarized lenses, offering a premium accessory option for spring and summer.

Learn more: https://westysunglasses.com/

Fun and Novelty Gifts

Energy Rocks

Energy Rocks are caffeinated popping candy designed to provide quick energy without drinks, powders, or pills.

Learn more: https://energyrocks.store/

Prank-O Prank Gift Boxes

Prank-O makes prank gift boxes designed to look like ridiculous fake products so you can hide real gifts inside them for a funny surprise.

Learn more: https://pranko.com/

Coffee and Home Gifts

Origami Aroma Mug and Dripper

Origami Aroma Mugs and drippers are designed to enhance different coffee flavor profiles through shape and pour-over brewing

The Origami coffee dripper and aroma mugs are designed to enhance different coffee flavor profiles depending on the mug shape, making them popular among specialty coffee enthusiasts.

Learn more: https://loisthestore.com/

NYC Gifts and Custom Gifts

NewYorkPrideGoods Gifts

NewYorkPrideGoods offers customizable New York City themed mugs and gifts featuring illustrated landmarks, neighborhoods, and iconic city scenes

NewYorkPrideGoods offers customizable gifts inspired by New York City, including mugs, tote bags, notebooks, prints, and apparel. Their NYC-themed designs make unique gifts for city lovers and travelers.

Shop here:
https://newyorkpridegoods.myshopify.com/

Conclusion

Easter gifts don’t have to be limited to candy and chocolate. From practical travel kits and eco-friendly beauty products to puzzles, games, artisan treats, and coffee gear, modern Easter baskets can include gifts that are fun, useful, and long-lasting.

Whether you’re shopping for kids, parents, or friends, the best Easter gifts are often the ones people actually use long after the holiday weekend is over.

The post Tech Trends Spring Gift Guide appeared first on Tech Trends.

By Laura Kobylecky

SXSW 2026

Some big changes happened for SXSW in 2026. In 2025 it was nine days of events spanning two weekends, but the 2026 edition was reduced to seven days, running from Thursday to Wednesday with a weekend in the middle.

In previous years, the “Interactive” section focused on technology and took place before the Music section, while Film programming overlapped both. SXSW also allowed “secondary badge access,” meaning attendees could sometimes attend events outside their primary badge category if space was available.

This year the “Innovation” section focused on technology, and all three sections occurred concurrently. SXSW also removed secondary access, meaning only Platinum badge holders could cross conference sections.

The old Austin Convention Center has now been demolished, but the conference remains in the same general area, surrounding the flattened space. Hotels have become the main venues. The Fairmont, located between the former convention center site and the I-35 highway, became a central hub of the conference and hosted many of the larger events.

Emerging Tech Expo

One of the larger events at SXSW 2026 was the SXSW Emerging Tech Expo, held in the Manchester Ballroom on the 5th floor of the Fairmont Hotel.

The semi-futuristic but classical construction of the ballroom created a different atmosphere compared to the former convention center. Lighting was dimmer, with chandelier-style fixtures contrasting with the stark brightness of traditional expo halls. Overall, the room felt like a scaled-down version of previous years.

The event was open to the public on Wednesday, March 18th, so the relatively cozy space was occupied by badge holders as well as curious members of the public.

Many booths focused on AI-powered software solutions, ranging from generative facial technology for dubbing to AI-powered gun detection systems. Several SaaS companies also offered tote bags — a conference staple.

A Selection of Booths

Aina Tech

Aina demonstrated holographic and volumetric video technology at the SXSW Emerging Tech Expo

Aina is a company that claims to capture and deliver true holographic video that mirrors the real world. CEO Chaitanya Atluru explained that the company operates primarily as a software company, though it maintains a studio in Los Angeles as a research lab.

Clients record footage using multiple cameras, and Aina’s software builds volumetric video environments that can be explored in virtual space. The videos can be viewed on laptops, headsets, and other devices.

The key advantage is that once footage is captured, users can virtually direct the scene afterward by creating different camera angles, zooming, and moving through the space, effectively offering visual mobility within a recorded environment.

ChargerGoGo

ChargerGoGo charging station allows users to rent portable phone chargers in high-traffic locations

I spoke with Shawn Wen, co-founder at ChargerGoGo, to learn more about their small charging stations. He described them as “like a vending machine for a charger,” where users pay a small fee — typically $3 to $5 per hour — to charge their phones while they continue their activities.

These chargers are designed for locations with high foot traffic, including restaurants, bars, shopping centers, hospitals, stadiums, and universities.

While the concept is common across East Asia, including China, Japan, and South Korea, the challenge in the U.S. market has been localization, including compliance with regulations and integrating local payment systems such as Stripe.

Wen explained that his background in graphic design helped him understand user behavior and product design, emphasizing empathy and intuitive product features.

Namirsa Wellness

Namirsa Wellness displayed muscle recovery and performance devices at SXSW

Namirsa Wellness showcased massage chairs and muscle recovery devices focused on active recovery and performance. Their products include electronic stimulators, percussion devices, and foam rollers designed for muscle recovery and relief. Expo attendees could test the chairs directly at the booth, making it one of the more interactive displays.

DNA Hairtools

DNA Hairtools demonstrated styling tools with live demonstrations at SXSW

DNA Hairtools hosted live demonstrations with freelance stylists showcasing their styling tools. One of their highlighted products was the Air Styler, which uses extra-long titanium plates and infrared technology. The product demonstration showed how the tool could create loose curls that lasted throughout a long and windy day.

Free Professional Headshots – Precision Camera & Fujifilm

Precision Camera and Fujifilm offered free professional headshots at SXSW

Another high-interaction booth offered free professional headshots presented by Precision Camera & Video in partnership with Fujifilm. The booth included a full camera and lighting setup, providing high-quality professional photos with expert guidance. The service proved popular among attendees looking to update their LinkedIn profiles.

TooFar Media

Too far media creates “Immersive Storyworlds.” This combines Animation, Art, Books, Film and music.

MOD Bikes

MOD Bikes showcased electric bikes including a popular sidecar model at SXSW

MOD Bikes, an Austin-based company founded in 2017, displayed its electric bikes at the expo. According to the company’s marketing manager, their sidecar attachment is their best-selling product and ships globally, including to Europe, Korea, Australia, and Japan. The bike on display featured a stuffed dog in the sidecar, which attracted significant attention from attendees.

Conclusion

The SXSW Emerging Tech Expo offered a snapshot of where innovation is currently heading: practical applications of AI, hardware products designed for everyday use, and technology focused on improving real-world experiences rather than purely theoretical innovation.

From holographic video and charging infrastructure to recovery technology and electric mobility, the expo demonstrated that many emerging tech companies are focused on solving practical problems while improving user experience and accessibility.

Laura Kobylecky is a contributing writer to Tech Trends. She is particularly interested in new and emerging technology and culture. Connect with her on LinkedIn 

The post Exploring SXSW Emerging Tech appeared first on Tech Trends.

As smartphones continue to dominate daily life, the accessories that surround them are evolving from purely functional protection into expressions of personal style. Increasingly, the humble phone case is being treated less like a necessity and more like a wearable accessory — a way to signal identity, aesthetics, and even values.

And as the market for smartphone accessories continues to grow, designers are increasingly blending protection, fashion, and functionality into everyday tech products.

According to insights from accessories brand , Spring 2026 is set to bring a fresh wave of design trends to the phone case market, reflecting broader shifts in consumer tastes toward sustainability, personalization, and tactile design.

Phone case designers say the coming season will see a blend of playful aesthetics and practical features — turning everyday tech accessories into something closer to fashion items.

In With the NePhone Case Design…

1. Eco-Friendly Materials Go Mainstream

Sustainability has moved from niche selling point to consumer expectation. Designers are increasingly experimenting with cases made from plant-based plastics, recycled materials, and biodegradable compounds.

For many consumers, the materials used in everyday tech accessories are becoming as important as their appearance.

“Consumers want their accessories to reflect their values,” says Casely co-founder Emily Stallings, noting that eco-conscious materials are rapidly becoming a standard rather than a novelty.

In With the NePhone Case Design…

2. Soft Pastels and Nature-Inspired Colours

Spring palettes are shifting toward softer tones inspired by the natural world — think lilac, sage green, butter yellow, and muted coral.

These colours mirror seasonal fashion trends and reflect a broader cultural move toward calmer, nature-influenced aesthetics.

3. Clear Cases with Decorative Accents

Minimalist clear cases remain popular, but designers are adding subtle visual twists. Pressed floral elements, metallic accents, and bold typography are increasingly appearing in transparent designs.

The result is a case that protects the phone while still showcasing its original design.

4. Tactile, Textured Finishes

The sleek glossy cases that dominated previous years are giving way to more tactile surfaces. Ribbed edges, woven textures, matte coatings, and stone-like finishes are becoming more common.

These textures offer both aesthetic appeal and practical advantages — improving grip and durability.

5. Functional Features Built In

Phone cases are also becoming more multifunctional. Built-in card holders, kickstands, and wallet-style designs are gaining popularity as consumers look to simplify what they carry.

Rather than an afterthought, these functional elements are increasingly integrated into the design itself.

6. Personalisation as the Ultimate Trend

Perhaps the biggest shift is the growing demand for customization. Monograms, photo prints, and custom colour combinations allow consumers to transform phone cases into highly personal accessories.

In a world where people interact with their phones dozens of times a day, personalization turns a simple case into something closer to a digital extension of identity.

The way we customise our devices is also tied to questions of digital identity, reflecting how people increasingly express themselves through technology.

Small Accessories, Big Cultural Signals

Accessories like phone cases may seem small, but they often reflect broader consumer technology trends shaping how people interact with devices, and mirror wider shifts in consumer culture — from sustainability priorities to the growing emphasis on individuality and personal branding.

As the line between technology and lifestyle continues to blur, even the smallest pieces of everyday tech are becoming canvases for design, values, and self-expression.

The post From Eco Materials to Personalised Designs: The Phone Case Trends Shaping Spring 2026 appeared first on Tech Trends.

After dozens of trials and iterations, Manmade might just have created the most comfortable Boxer Brief ever! Featuring a luxurious plant-based fabric called Modal, which is over three times softer and more breathable than cotton, while still maintaining its shape throughout the day and the laundry.

Manmade Boxer Briefs – Meet the Mansack made for your Nuts

Dreading the last-minute Father’s Day scramble? Say “thanks, dad” with with Manmade’s NEW Father’s Day Bundle, featuring a curated selection of our best-sellers: 4 of our Dragons’ Den-featured boxer briefs, 2 pairs of low-cut socks and – for the first time ever – our baseball cap for just $115 USD.

We’re 4 lifelong friends that have endured problems with essential products we rely on daily, so we decided to do something about it. We built Manmade as the “Guy Brand” that takes your best interests at heart, in everything we do.

Praised by over 200,000 customers (including Howie Mandel) for their comfort and quality, Manmade’s boxer briefs are crafted from moisture-wicking modal and keep dads feeling fresh all day without chafing, constant readjusting, and other general discomfort.

Here’s a closer look at what’s included:

• Boxer Briefs (4-pack): The foundation of comfort! Our Howie Mandel-approved boxer briefs are crafted from moisture-wicking modal, keeping Dad cool and dry all day. Plus, they have an ergonomic “mansack” for the family jewels and a seamless design which work together to eliminate chafing, constant readjusting, and general discomfort.
• Low Cut Socks (2-pack): No more bunching or falling off! These socks feature a non-slip heel, mesh ventilation, a cushioned French terry sole, and a front tab to prevent chafing.
• Baseball Cap (Limited Edition): New exclusively for this Father’s Day! This stylish, limited-edition baseball cap is the perfect finishing touch to any Dad’s casual outfit. The breathable fabric keeps him cool under the sun, while the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit.

We built the boxer brief with a “Mansack” to separate the boys from your thighs, it’s the most comfortable thing ever. Customers have told us that its like going commando, yet still feeling supported. You can learn more about the boxer brief here.

The Mansack ergonomically supports and separates your family jewels from your thighs for extraordinary comfort. No meshes, fishnets, or other paraphernalia required. Tech Trends can attest to the quality of these silky soft and supportive undies so snap up a Father’s Day Bundle here and ensure your Pop’s nuts are well-cradled!

The post A cheeky gift for Father’s Day – Manmade undies, socks and cap! appeared first on Tech Trends.