The newly launched Neo 2 & Neo 2 Eye headsets from Pico Interactive are lightweight, untethered, deliver 4K, and look most like a beefed-up Oculus Quest. “Great!” I can hear VR enthusiasts and gamers around the world exclaim, but hold your horses. Closer inspection reveals these headsets are very definitely industry-only, at least for now.

To be fair, Pico never said otherwise, and that doesn’t mean the package doesn’t present a value proposition for developers, and maybe a teaser of what that big consumer headset we are all waiting for will look like.

The newly launched @PicoInteractive Neo 2 & Neo 2 Eye headsets from Pico Interactive are lightweight, untethered, deliver 4K, and look most like a beefed-up Oculus Quest
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Compatible with a wide variety Android peripherals, the Neo 2 features a comfortable and hygienic all-PU facial interface. A unique counterbalanced design allows for extended use, with plenty of room for prescription glasses. There’s also an SD slot for expanding memory and adding additional content.

Pico’s Neo 2 line includes two headsets: the Neo 2 and the Neo 2 Eye. Both are all-in-one (AIO) devices with 6 degrees of freedom (DoF), head and magnetic controller tracking, wireless & wired streaming from a PC, spatial stereo audio, and BT 5.0 compatibility. The slightly more expensive Neo 2 Eye offers integrated Tobii eye-tracking and foveated rendering powered by their Spotlight Technology. This system scans your eyes 90 times a second and uses your own retina position for cursor control.

Quality eye-tracking in an untethered headset is a big deal and enables companies to follow and learn a customer’s in-app behavior, enhance training efficiency, and improve productivity
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Quality eye-tracking in an untethered headset is a big deal and enables companies to follow and learn a customer’s in-app behavior, enhance training efficiency, improve productivity, and possibly increase user safety in busy, shared work environments. Along with the eye-tracking comes dynamic foveated rendering, another big deal for a high resolution untethered headset. This translates into improved battery life through refined graphics performance, reducing shading load in some applications by up to 72% while increasing the possible frame rate by a supposed 66 percent.

“Over the last two years, we have seen Tobii eye-tracking become a foundational technology that makes XR devices better and improves the user experience,” said Anand Srivatsa, Division CEO of Tobii Tech. “It is fantastic to partner closely with Pico on the extraordinary Neo 2 Eye and to enable enterprise and professional users to unlock greater operational efficiency, provide powerful user insights, enhancing training, simulation and product development capabilities.”

Pico Neo 2 Specs:

– Display: 4K resolution, 101 FOV, 75 Refresh.
– Components: 845 Snapdragon, 128 GB Storage, 6GB RAM, Micro SD Card Slot.
– System/SDK: Android8.1/Pico XR SDK/Qualcomm XR SDK.
– Design: 2 Electromagnetic Controllers (6 DoF), Hygienic Replaceable PU Face Inserts.
– Weight: Less than 340g without a headband, Counterweighted Battery for Maximum Comfort.
– Audio: Integrated Spatial stereo speaker, Dual Mic EC/NR, 3.5mm Jack.
– Connectivity: USB-C, BT 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 2X2 MIMO Dual Antenna.

Using Qualcomm’s 845 Snapdragon processor with Boundless XR, the Neo 2 also allows content streaming from a VR-ready PC and existing PC VR platforms over wireless 2X2 MIMO 802.11ac 5G link with a common MIMO 5G router. I was also pleased to see they also integrated Firefox Reality and Hubs by Mozilla. Firefox Reality is an open, accessible, and secure browser built specifically for mixed reality (including WebXR support) to create a better immersive web browsing experience. Mozilla’s Hubs allows users to collaborate online around virtual objects, spaces, and tasks – all without leaving their headsets.

Using Qualcomm’s 845 Snapdragon processor with Boundless XR, the @PicoInteractive Neo 2 also allows content streaming from a VR-ready PC over wireless 2X2 MIMO 802.11ac 5G link with a common MIMO 5G router
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Before I get into how the Neo 2 Eye performed during my hands-on, it is important to address the inevitable comparison with the game-changing Oculus Quest as all my feedback – both good and bad  – is framed around that comparison. To be blunt, the Neo 2 feels like a Quest with upgraded hardware and capabilities. However, when you first start it up and are presented with a Quest-like environment and menu system, it quickly becomes apparent that the Neo 2 isn’t the most consumer-friendly headset. But that is only because the available content is not there – yet.

While the Quest may feature less powerful hardware, the content and software are what makes the device so damn user-friendly. It’s incredibly easy to jump in and start having fun. The Neo 2, on the other hand, is marketed as an enterprise headset, and while I have no doubt it would serve as a fantastic platform to build 4K resolution apps that can make the most of its impressive eye-tracking, rendering, and connectivity, the low-quality software and demos that are now available make the headset feel like a letdown when compared to the Quest. Most of the Neo 2 apps aren’t even in 4K, so apart from the menus, most of the content looked visually underwhelming.

the @PicoInteractive Neo 2 Eye is a very exciting, professionally supported, blank slate. It's an evolutionary step forward in untethered VR headsets on to which companies can build their own technology.
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I was disappointed that Pico sent this for a review missing any preloaded software, links, or instructions to demo apps that might have exposed the true capabilities of this impressive headset. But that frustration aside, the Neo 2 Eye is nothing to be dismissed, as it is clearly a very exciting, professionally supported, blank slate. Essentially, it’s an impressive evolutionary step forward in untethered enterprise VR headsets on to which companies can build their own technology.

“Few non-tethered headsets offer this level of visual quality, design and support,” said Henry Zhou, CEO of Pico Interactive. “We’re focused on ‘user first’ in all sense of the term and are constantly looking for ways to improve our product offering,” he added.

I did come across a few hardware niggles in my testing that might present an issue for some. For instance, there is no manual IPD adjustment, and I could not find the digital one in the settings. This was a persistent annoyance and it made me feel a bit like my head was stuck inside a glass jar, with my vision compressed slightly on both sides. If IPD adjustment is digital, however, this issue could be addressed by software updates so might not be a deal-breaker as the product rolls out.

Both the controllers and the headset are ‘functionally’ designed, which means they are bulky and practical while not being ugly. They are hard-wearing and meant for constant heavy use, but it is worth noting that after 30 minutes I did start to feel some discomfort, specifically in my cheeks and ears.

The battery is part of the adjustment strap, and the fact the weight is at the back of the head counterbalances the screen at the front nicely. I didn’t notice any neck strain at all while using the @PicoInteractive Neo 2 Eye
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On the plus side, the battery is part of the adjustment strap, and the fact the weight is at the back of the head counterbalances the screen at the front nicely. I didn’t notice any neck strain at all while using the Neo 2 Eye. The padding is also composed of a super hygienic design that is comfortable, easy to clean, and replaceable.

USB-C charging ports on the controllers and headset are practical and the firmware updates were quick and easy to install. The easy-access SD card slot will be a real time-saver for software testing or the quick swapping of demo content in a sales environment. All around the Neo 2 Eye is a practical solution for businesses, not a toy or gaming device.

When you consider that the Oculus Quest for business platform costs roughly $1000, the @PicoInteractive Neo 2 models actually offer more bang for your buck
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I have read some criticism of the high cost of the Neo 2 and the Neo 2 Eye, but as an enterprise solution, they offer great value for companies seeking a sturdy, visually-impressive headset that’s easy to use in a busy work environment – from a shop floor to an architectural office. When you consider that the Oculus Quest for business platform costs roughly $1000, the Neo 2 models actually offer more bang for your buck.

The Neo 2 is now available for purchase at $699 USD and the Neo 2 Eye for $899 USD. More information on both headsets is available here. As Pico focuses on enterprise, these headsets are only sold directly to companies via a dedicated sales team spread across the globe, including offices in San Francisco and Barcelona. For more information visit Pico Interactive.

This article originally appeared on VRScout.

Pico Neo 2 Eye Review: Untethered 4K VR In A Tidy Little Package via @R3Digital https://t.co/5qrpKKpQea pic.twitter.com/zhBOFywT7L

— VRScout (@VRScout) August 5, 2020

Tech Trends offers a broad range of Digital Consultancy services to guide companies, individuals, and brands in effectively leveraging existing and emerging technologies in their business strategy.

Tom Atkinson is Reviews & Dep. Editor at Tech Trends. Follow him on Twitter @techtrends_tech

The post Pico Neo 2 Eye Review: Untethered 4K VR In A Tidy Little Package appeared first on Tech Trends.

In 2020 we are all being tested as to how much misery, uncertainty, and disruption to our lives we can take without cracking open like a pinata! The new Sensate II is “Designed to Soothe Stress, Build Resilience and Fight Everyday Anxieties” so sounds just the ticket right about now.

The new Sensate II is Designed to Soothe Stress, Build Resilience and Fight Everyday Anxieties so sounds like just the ticket right about now!
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Stress and anxiety are growing exponentially in both the [UK / US], with 45 percent of adults in the latter (53% of women and 37% of men) stating that the pandemic has affected their mental health. Despite an abundance of mindfulness apps, and a rise in the popularity of meditation and yoga, effective relaxation is harder than ever to achieve and not something easily mastered in a short time. Millions of people find it difficult if not impossible to disconnect and manage their emotions, and that’s where Sensate helps.

21st-century stress contributes to serious diseases of inflammation such as heart conditions, obesity, cancer sleep problems, and many preventable mental and physical health issues. The updated Sensate II is a palm-sized, pebble-like device that sits on the chest and syncs with a free mobile app. It was initially created by Stefan Chmelik, a pioneering stress management consultant and physician with 30 years experience, to relieve the effects of PTSD for a range of sufferers, including war veterans.

Audible and Subaudible Tones

Audible tones, those heard by human ears, typically have frequencies that fall within a range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. However, human beings are able to feel and detect sound waves that occur below these frequencies. Sound waves with frequencies below the audible range noted above are referred to as infrasounds and ultrasounds. At very low frequencies, sensory cells in the cochlea are stimulated by sounds at levels below those that are heard. Infrasounds and ultrasounds can also be transmitted by way of vibrations or pulsations. The bio-potential effects of low-frequency acoustic waves on humans have significant prospective benefits and therapeutic potentials. Research has shown that “clearly specified wave frequencies and amplitudes such that…the application of low–frequency sound waves with precisely controlled parameters (frequency, acoustic pressure level, exposure time)” can contribute to such significant results as “lowered activation level of the autonomic nervous system) or [a notable] change the morphology of the electrocardiograph pattern.” Studies have shown that infrasonic exposure can also produce such beneficial effects as a decrease in blood pressure.

21st-century stress contributes to serious diseases of inflammation such as heart conditions, obesity, cancer sleep problems, and many preventable mental and physical health issues
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Sensate is designed to use low-frequency infrasound to regulate the nervous system and tone the vagus nerve which is responsible for calming the body after periods of stress and anxiety
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Non-invasive stimulation of the vagus nerve is a new and exciting area for research that is making the benefits of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) accessible without an invasive procedure. At the forefront of this research is the use of ultrasound and infrasound (sub-audible, rhythmic, pulses) that stimulate a neural and physiological downregulation response (i.e. produce a calming effect). Sensate is designed to use low-frequency infrasound to regulate the nervous system and tone the vagus nerve which is responsible for calming the body after periods of stress and anxiety. It can relax our “fight, flight, freeze” emergency response, bringing our body back into balance.

A combination of meticulously composed sounds synchronized with the near-infrasonic rhythmic pulses of the Sensate wearable are tuned to promote immediate relaxation. Sensate claims it can also deliver health benefits more commonly associated with long-term meditation practices, it’s been shown to improve heart rate variability, a key marker for health, in over 80% of users within in-clinic trials.

Users of 1,000 prototype Sensate devices report:

• Feeling instantly relaxed
• Improved deep sleep (tracked with a sleep tracker)
• Lower resting heart rate and heart palpitations
• Improved blood pressure readings
• Better stress management
• Reduced anxiety and depression levels
• Feeling happier
• A profound calming effect
• Improved focus

Sensate has been shown to improve heart rate variability, a key marker for health, in over 80% of users within in-clinic trials
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A revamp of the Sensate I, the Sensate II offers the same physical and psychological benefits, but now with a sleeker, non-slip design, longer battery life, improved connectivity, and more power to improve use. The size of your palm, the Sensate II “pebble” sits on the user’s chest and produces low-frequency infrasound vibrations that resonate through the chest cavity and bone.

The size of your palm, the Sensate II “pebble” sits on the user’s chest and produces low-frequency infrasound vibrations that resonate through the chest cavity and bone
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This creates the same calming effect produced by a cat purring on your chest. These vibrations regulate the nervous system through toning the vagus nerve, the neural superhighway that connects the brain to the gut and is responsible for calming the body after periods of stress and anxiety.

VibroAcoustic Therapy

Olave Skille patented VibroAcoustic (VA) Therapy in the late 1980’s in Norway as a “means of using the energy of musical sound waves applied directly to the body to produce relaxing physiological as well as psychological effects.” Since its inception, studies have proven that the use of the physical sounds of music can be even more effective than other interactive forms of intervention.

How Sensate Maximizes VibroAcoustic Potential

The positive outcomes of clinical vibroacoustic hardware can be miniaturized through the use of microelectronics. Sensate pairs this technology and convenience by utilizing the body’s natural ability to conduct energy through bone conduction. As such, placing Sensate on your sternum allows your body to carry infrasound and audio tones through resonant frequencies and maximize their relaxing impact on your body. Excitingly, this phenomenon is further optimized through the use of a biometric sensor and feedback loop that personalizes the audible and sub-audible frequencies.

Used in conjunction with Sensate’s specially-composed library of soothing soundtracks (ideally played through headphones), users can reap the benefits of a lifetime’s practice of meditation within ten, twenty, or thirty-minute sessions.

Sensate II will cost £299 but is also now available to pre-order from www.getsensate.com for £199 for a limited period
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“Stress and mental health issues are a 21st-century health crisis, with around 300 million people globally suffering from depression and anxiety.” Stefan Chmelik, founder of BioSelf Technology and creator of Sensate, explains, “Human beings have made their chest vibrate and resonate since the first hominids sat in a circle thumping their chests and howling at the moon. Through song, chant, mantra, prayer, oming, breath, meditation and music, we have found ways to stimulate feelings of wellbeing, harmony, and belonging.”

Used in conjunction with Sensate’s specially-composed library of soothing soundtracks users can reap the benefits of a lifetime’s practice of meditation within ten, twenty, or thirty-minute sessions
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Officially launched on May 4th this year, Sensate is being initially funded through an IndieGoGo campaign where, as of publication, it has reached 941% of its target, proving the demand for a product like this in these uncertain times. Backers have 5 days left to pre-purchase a Sensate through IndieGoGo for a heavily discounted price, however it is available for pre-order from www.getsensate.com for £299 with IndieGoGo orders being fulfilled first.

As soon as we get our hands on one Tech Trends will report back with a detailed review, we could sure use a few moments of calm right now!

Tom Atkinson is Reviews & Dep. Editor at Tech Trends. Follow him on Twitter @techtrends_tech

The post Sensate II – Stay Calm in the Covid Crisis appeared first on Tech Trends.

Jingle Bells, Batman Smells… and all that. Sigh, yes it’s Christmas again but it does mean PRESENTS! Giving & receiving, remember? So this week we have a sack full of techy gift ideas for you.

Ailsa Bay – Whisky Hacked

Kicking us off is the awesome Ailsa Bay a ‘Precision Distilled’ single malt. Ailsa Bay is the first whisky to have an analysed measurement of sweetness identified. This is possible through a revolutionary technological process managed by master blender Brian Kinsman. The whisky is defined as having a measurement of ‘Phenol’ content in parts per million, more precisely 022 PPM. The higher the ‘phenol’ levels the more ‘Peaty’ the whisky will taste plus a measurement of sweetness that is 019 SPPM, giving a perfect balance between the peat and sweetness. I can attest to this, in fact, it has an almost uncanny balance of sweet and salty peat flavours that keeps the taste buds jumping pleasantly between the two long after you swallow.

Ailsa Bay is the only scotch whisky to undergo a process called ‘micro maturation’. the distillery’s newly made spirit is first filled into Hudson baby bourbon casks that are between 25-100 litres in size, for six to nine months. the relatively small casks – traditional american oak barrels can contain up to 200 litres of spirit – enables intense rapid maturation. the liquid is then transferred into virgin, first-fill and refill American oak casks for several years. the process is the first of its kind in the scotch whisky industry.

Ailsa Bay is the first whisky to have an analysed measurement of sweetness enabling a perfect balance between the peat and sweetness
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Now the thing that makes this whisky stand out is the technical approach to distilling, these guys are super into their numbers and from trying out the whisky I can say the results are unlike any traditionally made drop. The distillery team use data points to adapt the flavour and apply modern engineering alongside the family’s traditional approach to whisky making, allowing them to create an incredible single malt that delivers a unique balance of smoke and sweetness. The result is a taste that is more mellow and complex.

“No other whisky is made with this much science. Using data points to adapt the flavour and applying modern engineering alongside our family’s traditional approach is truly innovative”. Explained Stuart Watts, Distillery Manager at William Grant & Sons “Ailsa Bay’s new look takes its inspiration from the creativity of science, which reflects the boundary-pushing technology used in our state-of-the-art distillery at Girvan in Ayrshire.

No other whisky is made with this much science. Using data points to adapt the flavour and applying modern engineering alongside our family’s traditional approach is truly innovative
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Tasting notes:

• Nose: Fresh wood smoke with notes of smouldering damp heather and an extinguished bonfire. Following the smoke is a wave of oaky sweetness and vanilla oak, candied orange peel.
• Taste: Beautifully balanced peat and rich vanilla oakiness, this batch maintains an intriguing flavour meandering between smoke, fruit and creamy toffee. The extra maturation period has developed deeper toasty oak notes with every sip.
• Finish: An intriguing balance of oaky sweetness and peaty dryness.

Ailsa Bay is bloody delicious, has an ABV of 48.9% and is available from Amazon, The Whisky Exchange and The Whisky Shop at an RRP of £60 and offers itself as the perfect alternative gift for the tech-lover in your life this Christmas.

Coby Wireless Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Coby USA makes some really neat audio solutions including these cute little waterproof Bluetooth speakers. I tried out the smaller of their two models below and was very impressed with the quality of sound. Small size and a light plastic design make it super easy to carry around then add in the carabiner (included) and a sturdy loop and this tiny speaker will clip on to any bag you might be using. The sound is not great when at higher volumes but is really good at lower levels, speech, in particular, is very clear and defined.

Small size and a light plastic design make the Coby super easy to carry around then add in the carabiner (included) and a sturdy loop and this tiny speaker will clip on to any bag you might be using
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If your phone or device has no Bluetooth then there is a mini-jack IN port which is a nice touch. Surprisingly for a tiny unit, it offers 12 hours of play time from the 1800 mHa battery, easily a day of playback. Each wireless speaker also comes with a USB charging cable and has an amazing 55 hours of standby time and charges fully in just 3 hours. They also boast a built-in microphone that lets you answer and decline phone calls. A smart choice when your hands are busy or you’re enjoying the pool!

FEATURES:

•Play music wirelessly via Bluetooth

•Output power: 8w

•Waterproof: IPX5

•Built-in rechargeable battery •TWS Function

•Includes carrying carabiner

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Each wireless speaker also comes with a USB charging cable and has an amazing 12 hours of playback, 55 hours of standby time and charges fully in just 3 hours
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The slightly larger model pictured below includes a larger battery but basically the same features. I didn’t test this one but the larger size and weight will probably mean a bit better sound when cranked up but overall I like the smaller one for its shape and size. There are lots of similar speakers out there but the Coby models are hard not to like in these bold colours and simple design. Tech Trends recommends these and finally, I must point out their very reasonable price!

 

CSBT-351 Portable Bluetooth Speaker $79.99

Vype eTank Pro 2

Back in October, we reviewed the Vype ePen 3 and today we are looking at its bigger brother, the eTank Pro 2. As the word Tank in the name suggests, this model holds more eLiquid and a larger 1500mAh battery so should keep you shrouded in scented smoke all through a long day. The ‘Tank’ is heavier and much sturdier than the smaller ePen 3. That is a good thing if like me you appreciate a bit of weight in your hand when smoking.

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The 'Tank' is heavier and much sturdier than the smaller ePen 3. That's a good thing if you appreciate a bit of weight in your hand when smoking
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With a powerful 1500 mAh battery and a Japanese cotton wick, the smooth and easy-to-use Vype eTank Pro 2 delivers an intense vaping experience. What’s more, being an open-system device, you can play with mixology and flavour exploration.

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With a powerful 1500 mAh battery and a Japanese cotton wick, the Vype eTank Pro 2 delivers an intense vaping experience
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It is easy to fill up and a really easy smoke with a light pull. The battery lasted longer than I ever used it so I just topped it up every day or so. I found the eTank Pro 2 easy to construct, charge and fill but did encounter an issue where eLiquid leaked into the mouthpiece if the eTank was left horizontal on a table or in a pocket. The eLiquid is foul tasting and leaves your lips tingling which is not very nice. I haven’t yet stripped and cleaned the eTank to see if that fixes the problem so won’t say it is a design problem but something to watch out for.

In the hand, the eTank feels great and the button is well placed. I like the rubberised texture and the mouthpiece was a good size, in fact, the whole package is a good size and pleasant to use. There is a whole range of flavoured eLiquids available but my favourite was Creme Brulee, it really appealed to my cultured palate Ho Ho. No, I think the creamy flavour was the closest of the eLiquids I tested to a flavoured pipe tobacco I like. It is not expensive at £29.99 on the Vype website so check one out for your self, I really like mine.

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In the hand, the eTank feels great and the button is well placed. I like the rubberised texture and the mouthpiece was a good size, in fact, the whole package is a good size and pleasant to use
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eTank Pro 2 Starter Kit Contains

• 1x eTank Pro 2 device
• 1x glass tank
• 1x stainless steel atomiser
• 1x USB charging cable
• 1x user manual

Design Features

• Optimised wattage setting (up to 14 watts) and one activation button for ease of use.
• Colour range with a choice of 3 premium metallic colours with soft touch finish for a comfortable feel/grip
• LED for battery-life indicator
• eTank Pro 2 has a +50% increase vs eTank Pro in terms of battery capacity

Safety Features

• Intelligent software with:
• Device short-circuit protection
• Cell over-discharge protection
• Cell over-charge protection
• Micro USB for simple charging
• CE Certified

 

Colonna Coffee Capsules

The UK barista champion, Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood has launched a recyclable coffee capsule range. Based in lovely Bath, Colonna marries their best competition winning coffees with cutting-edge capsule technology to enable ‘coffee lovers to take the coffee shop home’. Colonna is the only pod company that started in a café and employ a scientific approach with a real love of the finest coffees to offer us a coffee pod you don’t feel so bad about throwing away with fully recyclable aluminium pods (from £11 per box of 20 capsules).

Maxwell and his wife Lesley set up their first coffee company providing people with, as Special Agent Dale Cooper would say “A damn fine cup of Coffee!” at events around the UK. Travelling far and wide, the couple brewed espresso through the night for revellers at music festivals and rain-soaked crowds at regattas. This was fun, but they quickly wanted a physical space to build something special for people from far and wide to visit, as well as creating a coffee lovers hub. The fruit of this vision is Colonna and Small’s in Bath, which is dedicated to showcasing coffee as a drink full of flavour, complexity and as an artisan experience in its own right. Utilising roller grinder technology, a new aluminium design and a revised capsule roasting approach, the Bath-based startup has been able to create Nespresso compatible capsules that translate from bean to cup ever more successfully.

“We are always in search of technology that will help us showcase the full character of the best coffees from all over the world, whilst also trying to improve sustainability. We are constantly looking to improve the aromatics and quality of our capsules. Utilising roller grinder technology, a new aluminium design and a revised capsule roasting approach, we have been able to create capsules that are brighter, stronger and more characterful than ever before.” Said Colonna-Dashwood.

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By embracing new technology, Colonna has also been able to lower the oxygen content in each capsule to under 0.5%. This allows them to capture the freshness and character of each coffee for longer
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By embracing new technology, Colonna has also been able to lower the oxygen content in each capsule to under 0.5%. This allows them to capture the freshness and character of each coffee for incredible lengths of time. The revised life of each capsule is now 18 months, allowing the coffee to shine even longer. Driven by a scientific approach and a pursuit of excellence, Colonna underwent life cycle sustainability studies with Bath University and combined with industry-accepted research, it is clear that recycled aluminium is the most sustainable material for pods. Previously the challenge with aluminium capsules is they contained small amounts of plastic, making them hard to recycle. Colonna’s new plastic-free design can be recycled simply and conveniently, just as you would a canned drink.

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Previously the challenge with aluminium capsules is they contained small amounts of plastic, making them hard to recycle. Colonna’s new plastic-free design can be recycled simply and conveniently
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Colonna is now about to launch a new Bartender Series in January 2019, three unique, single origin coffees but not for your cup, for your glass
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Colonna is about to launch a new range in January 2019, three unique, single origin coffees (RRP £5.50 per box of 10 capsules) but not for your cup, for your glass. The Bartender Series, created by award-winning author and bar owner Tristan Stephenson and Colonna Dashwood, uses Nespresso-compatible technology to deliver an exceptional coffee ingredient at the touch of a button. Designed by bartenders, the capsules are also ideal for coffee-loving home mixologists, to take both the bar and the coffee shop home!

“The Bartender Series by Colonna is a landmark collaboration between barista and mixologist, enabling better tasting and more consistent coffee based mixed drinks. Maxwell and I have spent months exploring the potential in flavour pairing specific coffees with different styles of spirits, with the goal of elevating the role of coffee in cocktails well beyond the generic and into the fantastic. To that end we have sourced three coffees from three unique territories, each with a unique style that leans towards one of three specific flavour camps: FRUIT, EARTH, SWEET.”  Explains Tristan Stephenson. “The solution to ensure consistency, ease of use, and sustainability was to use recyclable capsules that work in any Nespresso machine. For the modern bar this solution meets all their needs, as it is inexpensive, takes up very little space, is easy to stock take, produces delicious results, and it couldn’t be easier to switch between different coffees during a busy shift. We think that this approach to implementing coffee in a cocktail bar environment has the potential to revolutionise the manufacture of drinks like the espresso martini as well as myriad other coffee-based drinks.”

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The Bartender Series by Colonna is a landmark collaboration between barista and mixologist, enabling better tasting and more consistent coffee based mixed drinks
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I drink too much coffee (and some might say a little too much alcohol) so unsurprisingly enjoyed all these coffees and coffee mixers from Colonna. The flavours were a step above your average shop-bought stuff and flooded the mouth with sweet, fruity flavours with nice, balanced bitterness and long pleasing aftertaste. They are not expensive for boutique capsules so I recommend you give them a try (if you have a Nespresso machine) and experience what new tech can bring to the coffee-making process.

Lots more info about the growers and the process here on ColonnaCoffee.com and you can subscribe to buy their capsules or beans here.

Duracell Powerbank

With new Duracell research data revealing Brits are in danger of running out of battery as many as 260 days of the year, this might just be the perfect gift for that person who is always on 20% battery

Duracell research data reveals Brits are in danger of running out of battery as many as 260 days of the year
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Available in three different sizes, these lightweight and great value Powerbanks are designed to keep you swiping, scrolling and surfing for up to 72 hours longer so you can wave goodbye to the dread of running flat at the most inconvenient time. These new Duracell Powerbanks are an ideal gift for the on-the-go commuter, the cultured traveller, the gadget geek craving power for their latest devices or the Instagram obsessed!

These new Duracell Powerbanks are an ideal gift for the on-the-go commuter, the cultured traveller, the gadget geek craving power for their latest devices or the Instagram obsessed
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Product Features:

Ready to use (pre-charged)
Up to 2 x faster with fast charge technology
Up to 5 x iPhone 7 charges
Dual-Charge – Phone or Tablet + Powerbank for simultaneous charging
10 safety features inc. over temperature protection, flame retardant case and overcharge
3-year guarantee
Universal compatibility
Approved for flying
72hr device can charge multiple devices with 2 x USB ports

Further findings from Duracell’s low-battery research include:

1. On average, Brits consider their phone battery almost 10 x a day
2. Over 250,000 of us have shed a tear during a low battery low.
3. 1 in 10 fail to catch a train, tube or bus because their e-ticket was made redundant due to overused battery
4. The average Brit would pay £240 a month to keep out of the red. That’s more than a monthly London travel card for zones 1 – 6!
5. 20,000 Brits have such a symbiotic relationship with their phone that they feel physically drained when their phone is powerless
6. 1 in 7 have sat on the floor in a public place to charge their phone

These new, updated power banks from the most trusted name in batteries are really very nice looking and come with all the latest safety and charging tech options and most importantly for travellers are flight safe, so no confiscations at security or better yet no in-flight explosions!

Duracell Powerbanks are available in three different sizes:
Rechargeable Powerbank 3350 mAH

• For up to 24 hours of extra talk or surf time
• For Apple, Android and most USB-powered devices
• RRP £19.99

Rechargeable Powerbank 6700 mAH

• For up to 48 hours extra talk or surf time
• For Apple, Android and most USB-powered devices
• RRP £24.99

Rechargeable Powerbank 10050 mAH

• For up to 72 hours extra talk or surf time
• For Apple, Android and most USB-powered devices
• RRP £34.99

These cool new Duracell Powerbanks can be had from leading online retailers including Argos and Amazon, and instore at Sainsburys and Morrisons, they are even approved for carry-on!

Johnson’s Baby Bath Time Gift Set and Bedtime Baby range – Johnson’s, still the original and best?

If you refuse to buy your infant child an iPad mini or similar tech products, shame on you! So the least you can do is keep your baby clean and smelling good through Christmas! Johnson’s has the answer, even if it is a non-techy one. As soon as you open any of these products you’ll be hit by that nostalgic Johnson’s smell, you know what you’re getting here and it doesn’t disappoint. The gift set includes Baby Oil, Baby Bath, Baby Shampoo and Baby Lotion. They’ve also included quite a big duck sponge and a bath book which counts up sea animals, both of which genuinely delighted my daughter. There are also some ‘milestone cards’ which aren’t of much interest, and the large clear sponge bag it comes in which is actually really handy.

If you refuse to buy your infant child an iPad mini or similar tech products, shame on you! So the least you can do is keep your baby clean and smelling good through Christmas!
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The Bedtime products (I tested the oil, shampoo, baby bath and baby wash; there is also a cream, powder and lotion) are essentially versions of the traditional range with a different, lavender scent designed to chill out a baby at bedtime. They smell recognisably Johnson’s but distinctly soothing. Giving our baby ‘cues’ that it is bedtime has really helped us in getting our 18-month-old daughter to sleep, I cannot speak highly enough of an established evening routine and it’s really astonishing what a difference we have found with little things like always saying the same final thing before leaving the room. Because of that, I’ll be carrying on with the Bedtime products in the evening to help her know what time it is.

As soon as you open these products you’ll be hit by that nostalgic Johnson’s smell, you know what you’re getting and it doesn’t disappoint
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The bath time set would be good for parents who are establishing a bedtime routine and want to wind down with some calmer fun
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None of the products aggravated my daughter’s dry, sensitive skin and she is clean, moisturised and gorgeous. She loved playing with the bubbles (pop pop pop).
These Johnson’s products are lovely for toddlers; they’d make a great present for the first birthday but in my opinion are not suitable for newborns. The bath time set would be particularly good for parents who are establishing a bedtime routine and want to wind down with some calmer fun, the gift set is a convenient and economical way of getting all the classics in a nicely presented collection.

Available for £19.95 on Amazon here in the UK

Review by Naomi Hepworth-Andrews, Digital & IT Consultant, mother, ferret fanatic and tech enthusiast

Ninja Future: Secrets to Success in the New World of Innovation

How can innovators thrive in a disruptive future? The President of the Consumer Technology Association shares tips for success in a new book out this month. As the much-missed playwright William Goldman once said, where it comes to predicting success, ‘Nobody Knows Anything’. And that certainly holds for technology as well as screenwriting. In fact, it holds for most things in life, but let’s stick with Tech for now. Highlighting case studies from global brands, breakout innovators and startup companies, Shapiro offers an inside look at the emerging technologies that are shaping our world. Read the Full Review here.

Tile Mate – New 2018 Version

The Tile Mate is a great stocking filler and damn handy to have on your important objects. Ring your Tile when you’ve misplaced your belonging if it’s close by, and use it in reverse to call your phone – even when it’s on silent. If you fear you’ve left your belonging further away, check where your item was last seen on a map, or tap into Tile’s community, the world’s largest lost-and-found network, which will anonymously help find the lost or stolen item almost anywhere in the world.

Ring your Tile when you’ve misplaced your belonging if it’s close by, and use it in reverse to call your phone - even when it’s on silent
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This new 2018 version of the Tile Mate has a replaceable battery which is a big improvement meaning it will last as long as you keep replacing the battery. Previously you had to post the old flat Mate back to Tile and pay a little bit for a replacement or just buy a new one. I have had one of these on my keys for a couple of years but always wanted another to go inside my camera bag so I stashed this Tile Mate attached to the interior zip in my bag and know it will be in there if I ever lose it… again! On my keys, it has been a lifesaver so trust me when I say, you will not regret getting a few of these to help keep track of your valuables.

These go for £20 in the UK on the company website.

GP M-Series PowerBanks

Tech Trends tested the new M-Series GP PowerBank Mobile Chargers, the MP15MA 15000mAh in Grey and the MP10MA 10000mAh in Mid Teal.

With an impressive energy capacity of 15000 mAh, the bigger of these two sexy looking power banks is remarkably compact. I loved the solid hardwearing metal case and the full range of connections, compatible with Apple and Android devices. GP make great quality rechargeable batteries so you know you are getting quality and durability in these products and GP’s high safety standards make me feel better about leaving them in hand luggage and charging overnight or on the go. To top them up you get USB-C and Micro-USB IN/OUT ports and a matching 2-in-1 charge and sync cable included in the pack.

The 10000 mAh version is really very slim, perfect for carry-on bags or briefcases. This one will be my new day trip charger and should charge my phone 2.5 times, more than I will ever need while out and about. The solidity and hardwearing designs of these power banks are excellent and they are a pleasure to just hold in the hand, while my testing shows they do their job perfectly, including fast charging from the USB-C Port.

They come with a range of colours and capacities, from 5000mAh to 15000mAh however the 10000mAh and 15000mAh PowerBanks feature a better range of useful ports, including USB-A and USB-C, allowing you to charge up to three devices at the same time in 3A rapid speed. Both these models handle pass-through charging so you can plug the bank into the wall and three devices into the bank at the same time! Stay prepared for anything and keep your devices at full power, always.

Technical Specifications:

• Capacity: 5000/10000 or 15000 mAh
• Input: USB-C: 5V DC 3A, Micro-USB: 5V DC 2A
• Output: USB-C: 5V DC 3A, USB-A x 2: 5V DC 2.4A
• Battery Type: Li-Polymer
• Recharging Time: up to 6.5 hours with USB-C port ^
• 2-in-1 USB Charge & Sync Cable (USB-C & Micro-USB connector) included

Check out the new M-Series range here for more details. They sell for between £19.99 and £34.99 here in the UK.

Devolo Magic 2 WiFi

These network extenders from Devolo are flipping great! Really awesome and I now have a stable cable network in my house after living on pure WiFi for two years, not much fun. The most important thing to do before you start setting these up… download the app!! I did not do this and so there was much stomping up and down stairs, shouting and fiddling about before I found out that there even was an app. Grrrrrrr.

These network extenders from Devolo are flipping great! Really awesome and I now have a stable cable network in my house after living on pure WiFi for two years
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In my defence, I don’t think this was made clear enough in the instruction booklet being mentioned on only one page. Anyway, with the app, available online here and for Android and iOS it was a snip and I was up and running in fifteen minutes. It was simple and is now rock solid across a two PCs, a Mac Mini, a printer plus two servers and integrates with other WiFi connected devices well. I am now a happy rabbit! There is a lot more technical info on their website so you geeks out there can learn about the Devolo system.

It was simple and is now rock solid across a two PCs, a Mac Mini, a printer plus two servers and integrates with other WiFi connected devices well. I am now a happy rabbit!
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Experience the new no-border world of surfing with all-encompassing devolo Mesh WiFi. Magic 2 WiFi streams incredibly stable, ultra-fast Internet through your home at up to 2400 Mbps – and is phenomenally simple, using your power lines. Stream films in fantastic UHD. Enjoy high-speed surfing in any corner of your home. Travel in virtual realities and discover the expanse of the Internet of things (IoT). Everything is possible, nothing impossible – with devolo’s magical Mesh WiFi.

The brochure says - Magic 2 WiFi will be your bridge to the future - and they might just be right. It's simple, get this now
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Dead WiFi spaces are a thing of the past since real Mesh WiFi ensures that you always access the fastest hub
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Devolo Magic 2 WiFi brings fast & stable internet to even the weirdest laid out homes. Dead WiFi spaces are a thing of the past since real Mesh WiFi ensures that you always access the fastest hub. In the remotest corner of your house. Let’s face it, in the UK we are not going to be building advanced connected homes for the masses anytime soon – if ever – so technology like this is essential if we are going to engage with the IoT future in any meaningful way.

Let's face it, in the UK we are not going to be building advanced connected homes anytime soon - if ever - so technology like this is essential if we are going to engage with the IoT future in any meaningful way
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Devolo’s magical WiFi brings the Internet wherever you need it. I daily enjoy UHD films in fantastic resolution without any lags. I test out a lot of VR experiences and this new stable network means less laggy behaviour, quicker connections and more fluid VR frolics. The brochure says “Magic 2 WiFi will be your bridge to the future” and they might just be right. It’s simple, get this now!!! You will not regret it plus it is really cheap 🙂

The Starter Kit is only £169.99 in the UK and a larger kit or extenders enable you to fit the network to your needs.

IQOS 3 & IQOS Mesh – Heated Tobacco vs Vaping

In the quest to avoid smoking classic cigarettes the IQOS 3 is just about the fanciest alternative I have seen. The ‘Heet’ sticks it takes contain a filter and real, compressed tobacco and look exactly like a mini cigarette. They insert into a hand-held battery-powered device that heats the tobacco rather than burning it. The idea is that the vapour produced contains less unpleasant chemicals and nasty cancer causing carcinogens. Once your ‘Heet’ stick is dead you simply swap it out and the IQOS 3 is ready for the next one. My kit came with an excellent how-to video guide inside a small booklet. Very useful and got me started quickly.

In the quest to avoid smoking classic cigarettes the IQOS 3 is just about the fanciest alternative I have seen
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IQOS 3 is a new two-part heated tobacco system that works hand-in-hand to deliver the best taste satisfaction. A newly designed pocket charger fits perfectly in your hand to keep you recharged for 20 single tobacco stick uses. IQOS 3 is engineered to last. Our new IQOS ProtectPlus System uses robust materials and fortified design to safeguard your heated tobacco system.

Charging the device is easy, just slip it back into the ‘Protect Plus’ case and it will recharge itself and stay protected in your pocket or bag. I have to say smoking it is a very nice experience! The smoke is lighter than I expected but has the authentic smell and taste of tobacco and when inhaled gives an almost identical feeling and effect. You definitely get the nicotine through this new heating system and your fingers retain none of that rank old smoke smell. Another hugely enjoyable feature is that the ‘Heet’ sticks feel exactly like a regular cigarette in the mouth with a paper wrapped filter for you to puff on.

I have to say smoking it is a very nice experience! The smoke is lighter than I expected but has the authentic smell and taste of tobacco and when inhaled gives an almost identical feeling and effect
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A robust outer shell enhances shock resistance while stress-tested door openings provide guaranteed performance, even after many uses. We give you peace of mind that your IQOS will remain your reliable companion with a longer battery lifespan. The new IQOS 3 is designed to withstand a greater range of temperatures so that you have guaranteed performance across a range of weather conditions that you and your IQOS encounter.

To be honest I was at first a little baffled by the whole thing but that is just because I had never heard of this cunning technology before
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To be honest I was at first a little baffled by the whole thing but that is just because I had never heard of this cunning technology before but it works perfectly and gives a really nice smoke. Hats off to the inventors for surprising this cynical journalist, it really is something new. Take a closer look on the site for more info and to get a better idea of how it works. The designers have made both the handheld IQOS and the case customisable and there are a vast range of clip-on or slide over options in the shop so you can make this 21st-century smoking device fit with your personal aesthetic, but the Starter Kit they offer starts at £99 and looks like a good place to start.

Next up is the IQOS Mesh, a vaping device similar to the Vype ePen 3 I tested recently but a bit sturdier feeling and nicer looking. It works on the replaceable mouthpiece system with each new mouthpiece already containing the flavoured ‘Veev’ liquid so there is no need for unscrewing tops and dribbling in smelly sticky stuff from horrible little bottles. Of all the vaping device designs out there I think this is the one that will really catch on given time.

Unlike wick and coil e-cigarettes, the IQOS MESH heater, made in Germany, is in constant contact with the e-liquid for a consistent vaping experience. Its smart digital controls detect when liquid levels are low, avoiding overheating and burnt taste. Our IQOS MESH battery is certified according to ISO standards featuring 3 protection levels to prevent overheating, short circuiting and pressure build-up.

It works on the replaceable mouthpiece system with each new mouthpiece already containing the flavoured 'Veev' liquid
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VEEV flavour caps are for exclusive use with IQOS MESH. The cap design eliminates the need for refilling and enables quick and easy flavour switching on the go. VEEV flavour caps contain high quality liquids made in the EU. The liquids contain pharmaceutical-grade nicotine for purity, and authentic taste experience.

It has a big battery that is easily charged in the usual expected way and changing the mouthpiece is really simple, a doddle in fact. The smoking experience is very pleasant as you don’t need to keep pressing a little button everytime you want a drag, it is always active until you turn it off. This made a surprisingly big difference for me, I think it was just less to think about so I could concentrate on something else while I was smoking. More relaxing I guess.

The smoking experience is very pleasant as you don't need to keep pressing a little button everytime you want a drag, it is always active until you turn it off
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They offer seven ‘Veev’ flavours at the moment but I got on pretty well with the Tobacco Harmony and the Mellow Tobacco, not stepping too far from the traditional taste I enjoy. Red Berry Fusion sound like hell to me but everyone to their own. There’s a lot more info on the website but I can give it a thumbs up from Tech Trends. If this is your thing then check out their Starter Kits here, however, the IQOS 3 gave me the 21st-century smoking experience I was after. The kits start at £19.99.

GP Xplor PHR15 Head Torch

If you are like me and spend an unusual amount of time crawling around under desks messing about with PCs then you need a hands-free rechargeable prosumer headlamp “designed for the most demanding conditions”, with distance sensor smart brightness control that automatically adjusts light levels to your surroundings. Trust me you do need one… and you could use it for picking up dog poo in the dark, which I also do, Sob!

As with all GP products you get style (as much as possible in a head torch), quality and performance, this 300-lumen lamp has a beam distance of up to 157 metres. Choose from 3 brightness levels plus flashing mode, plus IPX-6 water resistant. Thanks to the headlamp’s distance sensor, the brightness is adjusted automatically by increasing or decreasing the lumen output to suit the environment. USB rechargeable, the lamp provides up to 69 hours of continuous illumination on a single charge. Mini USB charge cable included.

Whether you need a bright light for caving (as if…) or dimmer setting to read your map, the versatile XPLOR equips you with 3 brightness levels as well as a flashing mode for emergency signalling. Other key features include its safety lock to prevent accidental activation, a really useful multi-position tilt clicker thing for near or far objects plus it comes bundled with a reflective washable head strap, making it comfortable and easy to wear even for long stretches of time. I love mine, it is just so damn useful! With the GP XPLOR Headlamp, you know you are ready for whatever comes next.

GP’s excellent batteries, power banks and head torches are available here and the Xplor PHR15 sells for £34.99 in the UK.

Johnnie Walker – White Walker

Send a raven – Scotch has officially entered the realm. Johnnie Walker is proud to present this limited-edition Scotch whisky, inspired by the most enigmatic and feared characters on the hit HBO® show Game of Thrones – the White Walkers.

Created by whisky specialist George Harper, alongside the small team of expert blenders at Johnnie Walker, this innovative whisky is best served directly from the freezer, echoing the chilling presence of the White Walkers.

“Whiskies from Clynelish have endured long, Scottish Winters, not dissimilar to the long periods endured by the Night’s Watch who have ventured north of the wall – so it was the perfect place to create this unique whisky.” Explained Master Blender George Harper.

The Scotch has notes of caramelised sugar and vanilla, fresh red berries with a touch of orchard fruit and features Single Malts from Cardhu and Clynelish – one of Scotland’s most Northern distilleries
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The Scotch has notes of caramelised sugar and vanilla, fresh red berries with a touch of orchard fruit and features Single Malts from Cardhu and Clynelish – one of Scotland’s most Northern distilleries. Blender George Harper used the Frozen North as his starting point for creating White Walker by Johnnie Walker.

This limited edition blend brings you right to the Frozen North with the iconic Johnnie Walker Striding Man now fashioned in armour to fit in among the ranks of the Night King’s forces
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This limited edition blend brings you right to the Frozen North with an icy white and blue design along with the iconic Johnnie Walker Striding Man now fashioned in armour to fit in among the ranks of the Night King’s forces. Utilising temperature-sensitive ink technology, fans will be reminded that “Winter is Here” from an unexpected graphic icy reveal on the bottle when frozen.

Now I have drunk a lot of whisky in my time and am not generally a fan of spiced whisky but this is pretty damn good
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Now I have drunk a lot of single malt in my time and am not generally a fan of spiced whisky but this is pretty damn good. I took their advice and chilled the heck out of it like a good vodka and it was definitely better like that than warm. The bottle is very cool (pun intended) and for a special edition whisky, it is a good price so if you fancy a frosty tipple from beyond the wall give it a try.

Pick up a bottle for £33.83 here.

Tom Atkinson is a Digital Producer & Photographer at R3Digital and Reviews & Dept. Editor at Tech Trends. Connect on LinkedIn and follow him on Twitter @R3Digital

The post Christmas 2018 Product Reviews appeared first on Tech Trends.

Welcome to our first reviews post of the new year, and true to form, we pretty much have a gadget for everything. Enjoy!

Zeiss VR ONE Plus Headset

Zeiss is famous for pushing the boundaries of optical excellence and their stills cameras are legendary. They now created a Virtual Reality headset that provides a very comfortable experience (especially for glasses wearers like myself) and great imagery for a reasonable price. The VR ONE Plus is well designed with ventilation ports to prevent fogging and easy access to the headphone jack.

The VR ONE Plus is well designed with ventilation ports to prevent fogging and easy access to the headphone jack
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Any smartphone with a screen size between 4.7” and 5.5” will fit and the expandable handset tray works well and fits nicely into the side of the headset and it all comes apart for cleaning those greasy lenses. I tested it with the budget Honor 7X, a great phone but not the most powerful and the screen is only 1080p but the results were OK. The headset boasts an ”eye-box” that claims to remove the need to make any mechanical lens adjustments during your experience. I am not sure exactly what this is but my screen was certainly in focus during testing, so it worked.

You can use the VR ONE Plus with or without a head strap, but it is a very comfortable and sturdy strap if you do choose to use it. The tinted visor on the front of the headset is enabled for Augmented Reality apps. I couldn’t test this but the visor does leave the camera unobscured so I will chase down a more powerful AR-capable phone and update you. You can choose content from hundreds of different VR apps, games and experiences available through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The big names are all supported –  Within, Jaunt VR, NYTVR and Arte360 as well as VR games and even FPV controller apps for radio controlled vehicles.

Overall it’s a sturdy and useful headset, is smartphone brand agnostic and was easy and comfortable to use. The Zeiss VR ONE Plus was also well made and lacks those dangerously sharp, unfinished plastic edges that are the curse of cheaply moulded headsets and have previously opened a capillary or two of this unsuspecting reviewer.

RRP: £69.99

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3z – USB 3 Flash Drive

RRP: From £70

Cue CleverBot

It has long been a dream to own a ‘living breathing’ interactive robot that will respond to commands whilst exhibiting a distinct personality of its own and Wonder Workshop believes that it’s latest automated toy ‘CUE’, launching this month, is the next leap towards that goal.

You can engage in chat, control movement, create reactive sensor behaviours or even code creative interactions using block or JavaScript
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Unlike many previous automated robots – which were essentially remote-controlled toys with minimal interactive functions – CUE has a more emotive AI system as well as a choice of 4 playful avatars to customise how your robot interacts with you. Linked to an app you can engage in chat, control movement, create reactive sensor behaviours or even code creative interactions using block or JavaScript programming at a variable skill level depending on age and ability.

The robots display autonomous behaviours and encourage emotional engagement, further enhancing the learning experience. Companion apps are available on iOS, Android, and Kindle

Pitched at 11+ CUE is certainly a little advanced for younger children who will delight in the bot roaming the room learning to avoid obstacles whilst chattering away, but will struggle both with setup and some of the more text-heavy interactions. I test played it with a 4-year-old, a 13-year-old and an 18-year-old and although the 4-year-old happily ran around after it like a puppy, the CUE was definitely more suitable for the early teen bracket. Simple functions such as the ability to record phrases into the Bot and send them off to relay messages will delight younger children (and provide an endless source for mischief) whilst the coding possibilities held the teenager’s attention.

The greatest expectation with any automated toy - especially one that pitches itself as an interactive robot - is how ‘alive’ it feels
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Unlike many previous automated robots CUE has a more emotive AI system as well as a choice of 4 playful avatars
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The greatest expectation with any automated toy – especially one that pitches itself as an interactive robot – is how ‘alive’ it feels as on the whole most toys that make this bold claim tend to disappoint and their limitations grow apparent pretty quickly, especially when they come with a hefty price tag. CUE chat can feel quite scripted, like keywords inevitably trigger pre-programmed answers and the repetitive nature of the toys responses whilst roaming soon reveal the limit of its conversation and personality, but functions such as watching CUE react to sounds, looking down at your hand as you reach towards it and an ability to react to its surroundings (and muddle past obstacles) invest personality into the toy and had my children laughing with it rather than at it.

Despite its prevalence in the world, coding is still considered to be a difficult subject/skill to learn, but everything becomes easier if you can make it fun. Cue and Dot are equal parts learning tool and toy. They have been developed to teach children vital skills, widely prized on the jobs market, without browbeating, allowing them to develop at their own pace. Vikas Gupta, Wonder Workshop CEO and Co-founder

The ability to toggle the avatars are definitely a plus and the ability to learn how to code to control CUE will certainly add additional playability. R2D2 it isn’t – not yet – but in terms of an automated toy that can be used both as a simple plaything and a fun way to get children interested both in tech and coding, the CUE is a big robotic thumbs up.

• 3 Proximity Sensors
• Real-time Bluetooth
• IR Robot Interaction
• 3 Processors & Sensor Fusion
• Dual Motors & Potentiometers
• 3 Microphones & Speaker
• Programmable LED & Buttons
• 2 Powered Wheels & Encoders

RRP: £169.99

Review by Ashley Thorpe, Animator & Filmmaker at Carrion Films and Film & Games Correspondent at Tech Trends. Follow him on Twitter @CarrionScreamin

Aukey Bluetooth In-Ear Headphones

These Aukey Bluetooth Wireless Headphones are currently discounted on Amazon and after testing them out they seem to be a bit of a bargain. They boast three EQ sound settings plus aptX technology ensuring that, when used with compatible devices, you get the very best audio quality over Bluetooth 4.1. They also use CVC 6.0 noise cancellation with the built-in dual mic so your calls should sound clear, so the question is, what don’t they do?

Well, I can vouch that they are a comfortable fit and come with several different size ear buds and ear hooks so even a Klingon jogging on a treadmill could wear them without issues. They are super-lightweight (13g / 0.46oz) despite the built-in rechargeable battery and Aukey claims an extended playtime of 8 hours of music (about 120 songs) or 240 hours of standby time on a single 1.5-hour charge. I have used they on and off for a month and not needed to recharge so far.

Water and sweat proof they are IPX4-certified water-resistant with internal nano-coating to withstand sweat and rain when used outdoors and the earbuds magnetically fasten around your neck when not in use. Like all Aukey products, these headphones are backed by a 24-Month Product Warranty which, when combined with Amazon’s excellent returns procedures is very reassuring indeed.

But, I hear you say, do they sound good? Simply put, yes, they sound as good as any in-ear Bluetooth headphones I have used so far, with a solid and pleasing sound. At the reduced price, they are a bargain!

Specifications:
Technology: BT 4.1, A2DP, AVRCP, HSP, HFP, aptX
Microphone Noise Reduction: 6th generation dual-mic cVc
Charging Time: 1.5 hours
Play Time: Up to 8 hours
Battery Type: Li-Polymer (2 x 60mAh)
Operating Range: Up to 10m / 33ft
Weight: 13g / 0.46oz

Compatibility:
Echo Dot. iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch. Android Phones and Tablets: Samsung, Samsung S8, HTC, LG, Sony, Huawei, Blackberry, One Plus, etc. Windows Phones. Siri Wakeup: If Bluetooth earphone connected with iPhone, please short press both volume buttons + & – while the earphone is in the standby mode, and Siri is activated when a prompt tone is heard.

RRP £23.99 down from £34.99

Tom Atkinson is a Digital Producer & Photographer at R3Digital and Reviews & Dept. Editor at Tech Trends. Follow him on Twitter @R3Digital

Eva II Sex Toy

The Dame Products team behind the original Eva and now the Eva II vibrator have a vision – a brave new world in which women have routinely orgasmic sex just like men through the creation of a small, wearable clitoral stimulator. It’s a noble cause, but how far does their latest offering go in fulfilling it?

Eva II is great for all kinds of play. Use it on your own, or any time you might want your hands free. However you want to enjoy Eva is the right way to use it! Eva II only needs the help of a single finger to stay secure.

Everything about the Eva screams ‘high end’ – through the miracle of wireless charging the device is totally waterproof and easy to clean and the design is all smooth ambiguous curves in muted matt green or pale pink. The vibe itself is powerful for its size and needs to be since the hands-free design allows the device to sit against your sweet spot rather than to press down as you would with a normal vibrator.

The Dame Products team behind the Eva II vibrator have a vision – a brave new world in which women have routinely orgasmic sex
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It does take some practice to comfortably ‘wear’ Eva; its arms are designed to sit snuggly under the labia but it’s quite a squeeze to get them there. After the struggle, it is still easy to dislodge once the actual sex is underway depending on your personal physique and choice of position. It’s also a challenge to adjust the level of vibration since it involves pressing a lubed up button on a piece of smooth plastic.

With flexible wings that tuck under the labia while Eva II sits on top, you can have clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex. Eva II is smaller, lighter, and simple to use – plus, it’s totally waterproof, and comes with a sleek charging base/travel case to boot.

All in all, it’s not really hands-free, but it’s a vast step forward from using a traditional vibrator during sex and its smart presentation and virtuous concept make it the ideal option for those wishing to introduce toys to their partner.

RRP: $135

Review by Naomi Hepworth-Andrews, Digital & IT Consultant, mother, ferret fanatic and tech enthusiast.

The post January 2018 Tech Trends Product Reviews appeared first on Tech Trends.

We certainly had our share of gorgeous gadgets this month, from a spy’s dream drive to the lovely Microsoft Surface Book to the Samsung Galaxy S8, plus the usual sprinkling of more random tech.  

iStorage diskAshur 2 SSD

Testing out the new diskAshur 2 SSD 256GB from iStorage shows that industrial grade security need not slow down your workflow, or look unappealing. This very sexy little portable USB SSD features real-time AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and software free design, setup and operation. Unlike any other portable drive I have tested before, this is platform/device independent and works across all operating systems including all versions of MS Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, Chrome, Thin Clients, Zero Clients and embedded systems, any device with a USB port, in fact. Now THAT’s impressive.

DiskAshur from iStorage shows how industrial grade security can be efficient and look good
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As a media professional who is constantly moving large and rather important files around on drives this was a bit of a  revelation. On the subject of large files, I tested out the speed of the diskAshur 2 SSD via its built-in USB 3.1 cable and wow! Blackmagic Disk Speed Test read 310 MBps READ / 250 MBps WRITE with 5GB files. This is very swift indeed, specially when you consider the encryption involved. I think the drive is able to be so fast due to a dedicated hardware-based secure microprocessor (Common Criteria EAL4+ ready), which also employs built-in physical protection mechanisms designed to defend against external tamper, bypass attacks and more.

The diskAshur 2 SSD has a really nice keypad and each key clicks softly but confidently when pushed so you know when a number has registered. The keypad lets you securely access the drive with your own unique 7-15 digit PIN. Following the instructions to setup my personalised passcode was easy, but do choose carefully, as you’ll only want to do this once. When that is done you simply plug it into your computer, input your code and push the unlock button, and off you go! A really nice feature is that when you want to finish using the drive you simply use your computer interface to eject the drive and that is that, your data is automatically secured.

Input the wrong pin code 15 times and the drive automatically wipes out its data
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Unlike other solutions out there, the diskAshur 2 SSD reacts to an automated attack by entering the deadlock frozen state, which renders all such attacks as useless, and if you input the code wrongly fifteen consecutive times, the device assumes it is being attacked and will delete the encryption key and lock itself, rendering all data previously stored on the drive lost forever. At this point the drive can be reset to factory default settings.

You can pre-program the drive with a self-destruct function, handy for spies on the run
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And if you are on the run from the foreign spies or the KGB and need to ensure your data does not fall into enemy hands you can pre-program the diskAshur 2 SSD with your own unique Self Destruct PIN which, once implemented, instantly deletes the encryption key, all PINs, data and then creates a new encryption key! Below are a few more specs and you can check out the full spec here.

• USB 3.1 Encrypted Portable SSD
• Capacities up to 4TB*
• FIPS PUB 197 validated
• AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption – no software required
• OS & Platform independent
• Employs EDGE* Technology
• Available in 4 colours: Phantom Black, Ocean Blue, Fiery Red & Racing Green

RRP: £219 256GB version

Samsung Galaxy S8

When I first realised that the Galaxy S8 was entirely buttonless, I wondered whether I’d miss the functionality of the home button in any way, but the short answer to that has been a resounding “No”. The most impressive thing about this phone is its screen, and the fact that you don’t get a button, together with the gorgeous Infinity Display, means that every inch of real estate on this baby is pure, vivid screen. And that’s no bad thing in my book. Besides, for those – like me – who are upgrading from the previous Galaxy models, there is still the exact same button functionality, in the same place where the physical one used to be. So your brain soon gets used to it, and starts wondering why we ever put up with buttons in the first place.

Read Tech Trends full review here

RRP: £689

Microsoft Surface Book

In October last year Microsoft released an upgraded Surface Book with a Performance Base featuring a new, more powerful Nvidia GeForce GTX 965M with 2GB of VRAM and a larger battery. They had not bumped the Intel i7 up from 6th generation to 7th but that was not a deal breaker and promises of a faster internal SSD and the upcoming Windows 10 Creators Update hooked me in. Unfortunately these things do take time to arrive here in the UK, but as I unpacked it last week I couldn’t help but think it had been worth the wait.

Read Tech Trends full review here.

RRP: $2,799 / £2,399

Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve Micro Panel

RRP: $995

AnySharp Pro Knife Sharpener

We like to stay sharp here at Tech Trends so were pleased to see that the AnySharp Pro Knife Sharpener lives up to its claim of being ‘The Worlds Best Knife Sharpener’. A sharp knife is essential for opening all those ultra-securely packaged gadgets that arrive in the post, specially those those evil clear plastic blister packs that USB drives always come in. I tell you, a sharp knife can really save your sanity when trying to open one of those!

I find that a sharp knife always comes in handy
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AnySharp claim that sculpting your old dull blades to the perfect 20 degree angle was no problem, and I duly tested this on some of my very old knives (I hate throwing knives away) I found the best candidate rattling around in my toolkit, where it had lived for about fifteen years or so. It was a serious challenge, but a few swipes across the tungsten carbide v section brought it right back to life. It works on most blades; hunting knives, kitchen knives and even serrated knives but maybe not your good old zombie machete. I was always a purist and favoured whetstones for knife sharpening but I am, well, a rather lazy man, so the AnySharp is a very welcome addition to the kitchen drawer. The best thing about it is its PowerGrip suction cup base, which attaches securely to any smooth surface or worktop without the need for any tools. Once it’s attached you can sharpen any knife safely hands-free! No whetstone does that!

Add endorsements from Jamie Oliver and (bizarrely) Jilly Cooper, plus a lifetime warranty and you’re laughing. Say good-bye to those raggedy tomato slices.

RRP: $22.99

You will rarely pass a Techie at work without spotting a fancy water bottle or filter bottle on their desk. We Technophiles take hydration seriously! Sitting in front of a computer for days on end with the aircon drying you out like an Inca mummy is no joke so Tech Trends is looking at two top level water filter devices, one very old school and one 21st century.

Black+Blum Eau Good Filter Bottle

This super elegant Eau Good Filter water bottle from Black+Blum uses a ancient traditional Japanese Binchotan charcoal to make your tap water taste great. Yes charcoal, you read me right, but this is no ordinary charcoal like for a BBQ, Binchotan charcoal was introduced to Japan by a Japanese monk and scholar called Kukai 1,200 years ago and is made by wood being placed in a kiln and charred at a relatively low temperature for some time, then, near the end of the process, the kiln temperature is raised to about 1000 degree Celsius to make the wood red-hot. The charcoal is then removed and quickly covered with a special powder made from earth, sand and ash, and this gives the charcoal surface a whitish hue. The rapid rise in temperature, followed by a rapid cooling, incinerates the bark and leaves a smooth, hard surface. If you strike it, you’ll hear a clear, metallic sound. Now this is sounding serious! This super charcoal has an incredibly porous surface with tiny cavities oriented in many directions. Just 1 gram has a surface area in excess of 500 m2 (about one tenth the size of a football field). It is also known as active carbon as the ions of contaminants are attracted to the surface of the carbon, where they will be held. It is also able to release minerals such as calcium, iron and magnesium back into the water, which enhances its taste and health benefits.

OK so that was all quite complex but does it do the job? Tech Trends first flicked the charcoal and blow me down if it didn’t ping a bit like metal, popped it in the bottle, wedged it into the special locking bulge and filled it up. After leaving it for a few hours we quaffed it down and indeed it tasted a lot better that straight out the tap. It’s a winner! Five replacement charcoal sticks are £30.95 including a 10% discount but it probably works out cheaper than buying water, specially if you happen to travel a lot. You can take an empty water bottle through security and most airports now have handy taps to refill them at the other end, so with one of these you can avoid paying that ever-so-reasonable  who said good water was cheap.

• BPA free tritan, cork, stainless steel, silicon
• Includes x1 binchotan active charcoal filter (6 months life)
• Automatic email updates for when to boil and replace charcoal
• W 8.5cm  H 24cm  / W 3.3″  H 9.4″
• 800 ml  27 floz

RRP: £19.95

ZeroWater Filter and TDS Meter

This 12-cup water filter jug from ZeroWater looks much like every other water filter out there but what makes it a more high-tech drinking solution is its patented, 5-stage Ion Exchange Filtration system, which removes virtually all dissolved solids from your water. These solids may include minerals, salts, metals, chemicals and runoff. Mmmm runoff, my favourite non-specific dissolved solid! The ZeroWater filter is also the first in its class to benefit from a sealed lid and reservoir, which allows filtered water to be poured while water, which hasn’t yet been, filtered remains in the reservoir. This adds a further 2 cups of capacity to the 10 cups of filtered water in the jug. It also features a very cool one-handed, pull and pour button spout for easy pouring from the fridge or for filling bottles. Four additional stages of water filtration ensure larger particles and other impurities are removed.

Well I used the laboratory-grade Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) meter provided on our unfiltered tap water and got a reading of 078. I then filled up the jug and measured the filtered water and… dum dum duuuum! Got a reading of 000. So this seems to do a fine job of removing those unpleasant impurities from your water, and that can only be a good thing. Our water normally tastes fine if a little chloriney and after filtering through the ZeroWater tasted very different. It’s difficult to describe the taste but it is not unpleasant and definitely better than straight out of the tap.

• Certified* to reduce Lead, Chromium, & Mercury
• Premium 5-Stage Dual-Ion Exchange filtration system
• Ion-Exchange system that removes virtually all dissolved solids in your water
• The FDA requires the TDS level in PURIFIED bottled water to reach 000-010ppm. ZeroWater is the only filter in its class to achieve this level.

RRP: £39.99

Tom Atkinson is a Digital Producer & Photographer at R3Digital and Reviews & Dept. Editor at Tech Trends. Connect on LinkedIn and follow him on Twitter @R3Digital

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