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Saturday, 25 June 2016

UpCart Review – Unique Folding Hand Cart That Can Climb Stairs?

UpCart Review

UpCart is an innovative product that promises to help you carry things up and down stairs around your home or business. Here’s our UpCart review.

UpCart-review

What Is UpCart?

UpCart is a stair climbing cart that claims to be “the evolution of mobility”. It’s a wheeled cart that uses a unique design to help it climb up and down stairs.

There are three separate varieties of the UpCart, although the UpCart Original is the only product currently on the market. The two newer versions of the UpCart are scheduled to start shipping in July 2016.

What is the UpCart Original?

The UpCart Original is a wheeled cart that promises to traverse stairs and obstacles while still being able to fold flat for easy storage.

It’s rated to carry up to 45.5kg of weight (100 pounds).

UpCart-reviews

The cart works using a three wheel design. There are three rotating wheels on each side. When you drag the cart up a flight of stairs, the wheels rotate around so one wheel is in contact with the stair at all times.

Normally, when you drag a cart up and down the stairs, you’ll hit it against each stair on the way up or down. This can cause injuries or cause you to drop your load.

You can get a better idea of how UpCart works by looking at this video here.

In that promotional video, people are seen using the UpCart around their home, including wheeling groceries from the garage, wheeling garbage cans across the yard, and wheeling heavy products across parking lots. There are even videos of customers wheeling the UpCart across grass, dirt, and other terrain so it can safely be used on carpet, hardwood, and natural ground.

If you find yourself carrying a lot of objects up and down stairs at your home or business, then the UpCart may be the right choice for you.

The manufacturer describes it as “an innovative new line of stair climbing folding hand carts and hand trucks that will simplify how you get all of your necessities to your destination, whatever it may be.”

It also claims to be the first device “designed to traverse stairs and obstacles yet still fold flat”.

UpCart is made from “strong metal components” and “bearings that will hold up to the rigors of modern life”. While cheap, plastic carts will fall apart, UpCart will “keep on rolling”.

UpCart Original Pricing

-1 UpCart Original: $89.95

-2 UpCart Originals: $179.90

Currently, UpCart is only available from UpCart.com and is not available from any other retailers.

However, the company claims that it will be launching in the near future on Amazon.com and other online and offline retailers.

Shipping is only available to the lower 48 states of the United States.

All purchases come with a 30 day return policy. You’ll receive a full refund on your UpCart minus the cost of shipping.

Other UpCart Products

UpCart is planning to launch two other products in the near future, including the UpCart Pro Shopper and the UpCart Beach.

The Pro Shopper calls itself the “Original on a diet” and is lightweight and engineered to carry groceries around.

Meanwhile, the Beach features special wheels designed for sand. It contains a 40 gallon bag “big enough to fit all your beach gear, chairs and umbrellas.”

Both of the new UpCart products will begin shipping in July 2016. Pricing details have not yet been released, but they’re expected to be priced at a similar rate to the UpCart Original.

Who Makes the UpCart?

UpCart is made by a company called TriFold, LLC, which promises to offer “innovative mobility solutions”. The UpCart lineup is the company’s main brand.

TriFold, LLC is based in Ohio at the following address:

  1. Old State Rd

Lewis Center, OH 43035

The company was founded in 2013 and employs between 1 and 10 people, according to its LinkedIn profile.

You can get in touch with the company by emailing them at support@upcart.com, by calling them at 800-539-3653, or by filling out the email form here.

 


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Kindle Oasis Review – Is Amazon’s All-In-One E-Reader The Best To Use?

Kindle Oasis Review

Amazon just released its new Kindle Oasis, which promises to be the best, lightest, and thinnest Kindle ever made. Here’s our Kindle Oasis review.

kindle-oasis

What Is The Kindle Oasis?

The Kindle Oasis is the latest installment in the lineup of Kindle e-readers from Amazon. Like all new Kindles that came before it, the Oasis promises to be the lightest, thinnest, and best Oasis to date. It’s also the most expensive one yet released, priced at $290.

The 8th generation Kindle is the third version of the Kindle that comes with built-in backlighting. Today, the original Kindle with no backlighting can be purchased for around $60, while all other Kindles are under $200. So the $290 price tag on the Kindle Oasis is a significant premium.

The Oasis launched on June 1, 2016 and promises to be “unlike any Kindle you’ve ever held.” Amazon claims to have made specific improvements in battery life (longest battery life ever) and better reading performance in direct sunlight.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the features in the Kindle Oasis.

kindle-oasis-review

Kindle Oasis Features

The Kindle Oasis comes with all of the following features:

-Thinnest and lightest Kindle ever. It’s 20% lighter and 30% thinner on average than any other Kindle, with a handgrip that tapers to an “ultrathin” 0.13” display so you can read comfortably for hours.

-Enhanced light cover glass. The Kindle Oasis uses the strongest cover glass and a featherweight frame infused with metal “using structural electroplating” to ensure it’s as lightweight as possible while still remaining strong enough to take anywhere.

-Ergonomic design. The Oasis has an ergonomic handgrip designed to shift the center of gravity to your palm so that it rests in your hand like the palm of a book. As a result, it’s “perfectly balanced for one-handed reading.”

-Multiple turning options. You can turn the page with either the touch display or dedicated page turn buttons found on the front of the handgrip, making it easy to turn pages whether you’re using your left or right hand to hold the Kindle.

-High resolution. The Oasis is the highest resolution Kindle ever released. It uses the same 6” display as the Kindle Voyage, but has 60% more LEDs and a 300ppi pixel density (that’s actually the same pixel density as the Paperwhite and Voyage).

-Dual battery charging system for long battery life. Charge the device and cover at the same time while snapped together and plugged in. When you’re on the go, the cover will recharge the device, giving you “months of combined battery life”. There’s also a new hibernation mode to minimize power consumption.

-Leather cover. Your $290 price tag for the Kindle Oasis includes a premium leather cover made from high-quality leather. It’s available in black, merlot, or walnut varieties.

-Built-in lighting. The Kindle Oasis has more LEDs than any other Kindle. It has 10 LEDs, while the Voyage has 6 LEDs.

The most noticeable feature on the Kindle Oasis is its ergonomic handgrip. Other Kindles have tried to make the bezel around the edge of the display disappear to make it seem like you’re reading a piece of paper. With the Kindle Oasis, the handgrip adds some new thickness to the device while giving you an easy way to hold onto your Oasis.

It’s also important to note that the Kindle Oasis is not waterproof, despite early rumors stating that it could be waterproof. That’s important, because the latest Nook is waterproof. So if you plan on going to the beach or pool with your e-reader, then the Kindle Oasis may not be the best option.

The Kindle Oasis is also the first e-reader to come with its own mandatory leather battery cover. Previously, Kindle e-readers just came with an option to purchase a cover as an accessory. The leather comes in three colors, including brown, black, and red. That leather cover is very good-looking. It has the same leather-look of an old book. An Amazon logo is engraved into the front and it feels sleek to the touch.

If you consider the cost of a leather cover could be $60 or $70, then it’s not unreasonable to see the cost of the Kindle Oasis as like a Kindle Voyage ($200) with a premium leather cover added on. The tech specs, aside from the ergonomic handgrip, aren’t that different.

Despite early rumors stating that the Kindle Oasis would last for 20 months of standby time, it doesn’t appear that’s the case. However, the Kindle Oasis will last for “months” on its hibernation mode. Amazon also claims it will last for about 8 weeks when you’re reading 30 minutes a day.

Kindle Oasis Tech Specs

The Kindle Oasis comes with all of the following tech specs:

-Display: 6” Paperwhite display with E Ink Carta and 10 built-in LED lights, 300 ppi, 16-level gray scale

-Size: 5.6″ x 4.8″ x 0.13-0.33″ (143 mm x 122 mm x 3.4-8.5 mm) Cover: 5.7” x 4.9” x 0.07-0.18” (144 mm x 125 mm x 1.9-4.6 mm)

-Weight: Wi-Fi: 4.6 oz (131 g); Wi-Fi + 3G: 4.7 oz (133 g); Cover: 3.8 oz (107 g)

-System Requirements: None. You don’t need a computer to download anything onto your Oasis. It does everything via Wi-Fi or 3G.

-Storage: 4GB (enough to hold “thousands of books”)

-Battery: A single charge with cover will last up to 8 weeks, based on 30 minutes of reading per day with wireless off and the light set to 10.

-Charging: Fully charges in less than 3 hours from a computer via USB cable.

Should You Buy the Kindle Oasis?

Ultimately, all of these features make the Kindle Oasis a Kindle for those who need a premium e-reader option. If you’ve liked the idea of previous Kindles, but never got around to buying one, then the Kindle Oasis may be the high-end solution you need to jump into the e-reader industry.

If, however, you already own one of the nicer Kindles – like a Paperwhite or a Voyage – then there’s not a big incentive to buy the Oasis. Unless you really like the leather cover and new ergonomic hand grip.

Of course, some people may not like the lack of waterproofing on the Oasis – something we see on other competitors like the new Nook. And some may not like the fact that the leather cover is included in all purchases whether you like it or not.

However, if you don’t mind the $290 price tag, then you’re getting an excellent device with the Kindle Oasis. It’s the best Kindle made and the leather cover (which also comes with its own built-in charger) makes it feel like an even more premium option.


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Nonda Review – Premium Appcessories, Devices & Smart Technology?

Nonda Review

Nonda is an electronics accessories company founded in December 2014 in the Bay Area.

The company offers a lineup of smart hardware for homes and businesses. Here’s our Nonda review.

nonda

What Is Nonda?

Nonda is a Palo Alto, California-based company founded in December 2014. The company manufactures and sells a variety of smart hardware, including many devices that fall under the “internet of things” category.

As the company’s About page explains, their goal is “to become the leader of premium appcessories.”

Appcessories, by the way, is a term for app-enabled accessories and wearables. Nonda makes a number of hardware products that are controlled by apps on your phone or tablet – like trackers that you can monitor from a mobile device.

Many of the company’s products are launched after crowdfunding campaigns. Popular crowdfunded products have included the ZUS Smart Car Charger and the ZUS Kevlar Cable.

The company’s products are generating buzz around the world. So let’s take a closer look at the products Nonda has to offer.

Nonda Products

Nonda has manufactured and launched all of the following products over the past three years in business:

ZUS Car Charger

The ZUS Car Charger is a “smart car finder” and USB car charger that charges your electronics two times faster than a conventional while also helping you find your car.

You install the charger in your vehicle (by inserting it into your car charger) and then use the Nonda app to navigate to your vehicle at any time. That app tells you the direction and distance to your vehicle, along with how long it’s been since you parked your car.

Other features on the ZUS Car Charger include an innovative lighting system called ElegantShine that promises to provide “top of the line lighting for increased visibility in dark environments.”

It also claims to be made from military grade quality and is “the only car charger to meet US Military MIL-STD-810G High Temperature Standard, which certifies its performance in temperatures as high as 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s lined with a protective titanium coating.

The car charger is designed in Germany and comes with a 12 month warranty. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth LE and does not require any type of data plan.

A single ZUS Car Charger is priced at $29.99. You can get up to 50% off by ordering 2 or 5 units at a time.

ZUS Kevlar Cable

The ZUS Kevlar Cable promises to be the last cable you ever need to own. It just launched its crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo.

zus-cable-nonda

As you may have guessed from the name, the cable is reinforced with Kevlar for superior strength. While other cables may splinter after a few months, the Kevlar cable promises to last longer than steel. Kevlar fabric is 5 times stronger than steel and is the same stuff used in ballistic body armor.

As a testament to the power of the ZUS Kevlar Cable, the manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty. The 2.4A capacity cord works in sync with your ZUS Car Charger to power up your phones and tablets twice as fast as normal. It’s also fully USB-C certified with a 56K Ohm resistor to protect against power surges.

There are three different versions of the ZUS Kevlar Cable, including a Micro USB, Lightning, and USB-C version.

The cable is priced at $15 per cable, although that price is expected to rise once Nonda manufactures the cable for retail sales.

HUB+

The HUB+ is a USB-C hub specifically designed for the new MacBook 12”. It gives you all the ports you used to have on your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro – including three USB-A 3.0 ports, two USB-C ports, a Mini DisplayPort, and a SDXC Card Reader.

The HUB+ has not yet been released, although you can sign up for more information from the official Nonda website.

USB-C to USB 3.0 Mini Adapter

This adapter promises to be the world’s smallest USB-C adapter. You can plug it into your MacBook to charge any standard USB device while you work. It also allows you to transfer data at USB 3.0 SuperSpeed (USB 3.1 Gen 1).

The adapter itself is made from a high-quality aluminum alloy. You can choose from one of three different colors, all of which have been specially designed to match the new MacBook.

You can purchase the adapter for $10.99.

iHere

the iHere calls itself “the only rechargeable item locator in the world”. Each charge of the device lasts up to several weeks with no need to change batteries. You can attach it to your keys or other valuable items to ensure you never lose them.

Then, once you need to locate your keys, you can access the iHere app to learn where you left them. The iHere 3 app can track any iHere’s signal within a 75 foot radius.

Interestingly enough, the iHere also lets you control your phone’s camera, helping you take the perfect selfie or group photo every time.

About Nonda

Nonda is based in Palo Alto, California at the following address:

828 Bryant Street
Palo Alto, CA 94301

Many of the company’s products are designed and manufactured in Germany to high-quality standards. In 2015, Nonda won “The fastest growing startup” and “The best 10 smart hardware” awards in Silicon Valley.

To learn more about Nonda and their product lineup, visit the company online today at nonda.co

 


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Friday, 24 June 2016

Barracuda Luggage

Barracuda Luggage Review

Barracuda is a smart collapsible luggage that can be tracked around the world using your smartphone. Here’s our Barracuda review.

What Is Barracuda?

barracuda-luggageBarracuda is a sleek, collapsible luggage piece that comes with a number of nifty smart features. The luggage can be used as a carry-on bag or as stored luggage.

Barracuda was launched in April 2015 and raised over $1 million in a Kickstarter campaign. The company was founded in the Bay Area by two Silicon Valley engineers. It’s described as “luggage for geeks”.

True to its name, Barracuda features chargers, cupholders, and location tracking devices that turn your dumb luggage into smart luggage.

Is Barracuda the right carry-on luggage for you? Let’s take a closer look at its features.

Barracuda Features

On most luggage, the “features” section isn’t very long. Most luggage just consists of a number of compartments that carry your stuff. Barracuda, however, takes a different approach.

Some of the key features on Barracuda luggage include:

-Collapsible: You can collapse any Barracuda bag in seconds, letting you tuck it away under your bed or in one of the storage bags that comes included with your purchase. You can also hang it up in your closet.

-Laptop Tray: If you’re sick of having your laptop on your lap, then the Barracuda laptop tray may be a good solution. The tray also comes with two cup holders on the same laptop tray, so you can have a beverage with a friend on the plane. As Barracuda explains, “in a packed airport a little extra shelf space is always welcome.”

-Venus Handle System: This registered trademark handle system features an ergonomic handle that can rotate 360 degrees. You can push the button to lock the handle into one of six different positions.

-Location Tracking: This is an optional feature upgrade on Barracuda luggage you can use to find your luggage when lost. The proximity sensor on the luggage will also send you a notification when your Barracuda bag arrives at the airport carousel.

-USB Charger: Barracuda’s carry-on unit comes with a built-in charger that contains a 10,000 mAh lithium ion battery. It can charge an average smartphone 5 times over – so you’re not going to run out of power on your flight.

Together, these features make Barracuda “the most innovative carryon” according to its manufacturer.

Barracuda Pricing

Barracuda has his and hers bags priced at the same rate. Pricing also varies depending on whether you get the location tracker. Here’s how pricing works out:

  • 1 x Bag: $349 ($299 without location tracker)
  • 2 x Bag: $319 per bag ($294 without location tracker)
  • 4 x Bag: $299 per bag ($287 without location tracker)

Barracuda lets you customize your options on checkout. If you’re ordering 2 or 4 bags at once, for example, then you choose which ones have a location tracker (all of them, none at all, or some of them).

You can also choose from one of six different colors, including black, gray, blue, brown, red, and purple.

barracuda-collapsible

Barracuda Tech Specs

The Barracuda carry-on comes with the following tech specs:

-Dimensions: 22” (H) x 14” (W) x 9” (D)

-Dimensions (Collapsed): 22” (H) x 15” (W) x 4.5” (D)

-Weight: 8.5 Pounds

-Materials: Made from lightweight and “super strong” Bayer Makrolon Polycarbonate Ballistic Nylon Aircraft Grade Aluminum

-Charger: 10,000 mAh lithium ion battery compatible with any USB rechargeable phone or tablet

-Connectivity: Bluetooth Smart / Low Energy Bluetooth / GSM / GSPRS

About Barracuda

Barracuda is made by a company named Idea Potent Inc. Idea Potent Inc. is a Bay Area company based at the following address:

101 California Street Suite 2710
San Francisco, CA 94111

You can currently only buy Barracuda online through the official website at Barracuda.co. That website accepts all major credit cards as well as PayPal.

Get in touch with the company by emailing delight@barracuda.co.

The company’s LinkedIn page lists Barracuda and Idea Potent, Inc. as the same company, so it appears the two names are used interchangeably.

The Barracuda luggage was launched in April 2015. In a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, the company raised $1.25 million USD.

The company was founded by two engineers from the Bay Area.

Described as luggage for geeks, Barracuda is a carry-on sized luggage that promises to help you get safely (and fully charged) anywhere you need to go. Buy it online today from the official Barracuda.co website.

 

 


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HP Spectre Review – Thinnest Luxury Laptop Computer Of The Year?

HP Spectre Review

The HP Spectre calls itself the world’s thinnest laptop. It’s just 10.44mm wide. But is this $1200 laptop good for more than just its thin form factor? Find out today in our HP Spectre review.

hp-spectre-computer

What Is The HP Spectre?

The HP Spectre is the world’s thinnest laptop. Clocking in at just 10.44mm wide, the laptop can be outfitted with an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor.

The “world’s thinnest laptop” title is legitimate: Apple’s MacBook Air, which is famously thin, is 17mm thin, as is the Lenovo LaVie. Meanwhile, the 12-inch MacBook and the recently-released Razer Blade Stealth are the two laptops that come closest to the HP Spectre in terms of thickness: they’re both 13mm thick.

In any case, the HP Spectre is at least 2mm thinner than any laptop in existence today. That thin form factor is noticeable when you’re holding the Spectre: you’d be surprised by how different a 17mm laptop feels compared to a 10.4 mm laptop.

The laptop also stands out from the competition with a bold color scheme. HP has abandoned its usual (boring) silver/grey color for a darker, smokey gray color with copper-gold accents on text across the laptop.

You’ll also notice that to preserve the thin form factor of the laptop, the hinge has moved in from the very rear edge. The hinge and lid are both aluminum. HP says this was a deliberate decision to give the laptop added weight and stiffness.

The laptop ends up weighing 2.45 pounds. That’s not super light, and it’s not the lightest 13-inch laptop on the market, but it’s still very portable.

HP-Spectre-laptop

Display

The HP Spectre features a 1920×1080 full HD non-touch screen. The display is covered with Gorilla Glass for protection.

Some have criticized the HP Spectre for its lack of touch: some people believe Windows 10 works better with a touchscreen, and that you should expect a touchscreen at PCs in this price range. However, Apple has managed to sell premium laptops without touch for years. Personally, I don’t think it’s necessary on the HP Spectre – especially when you consider how much it would have added onto the cost.

Processor

The HP Spectre uses a more powerful processor than its biggest competitor, the 12 inch MacBook. Instead of using the lower-powered Intel Core M processors like the 12-inch MacBook, the HP Spectre uses a current-gen Intel Core i5 or Core i7 with 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD.

Keyboard

If you’ve ever used one of Apple’s ultra-thin laptop keyboards, then you know there’s a bit of a learning curve. It’s extremely shallow and requires a different typing position than a conventional keyboard.

The HP Spectre, however, has been mostly praised for its keyboard. The backlit keyboard and glass trackpad have won praise from users for their satisfying feel and minimal learning curve. If the keys on the 12 inch MacBook have ever felt too shallow for you, then the HP Spectre may be a right blend between shallowness and a satisfying click.

Other Information

The HP Spectre comes outfitted with Windows 10.

You can choose to outfit your laptop with up to 512GB of SSD storage for ultra-fast transfer and recall rates.

The 8GB of RAM, however, is a fixed amount.

HP also claims to have maximized Wi-Fi reception using a next-generation 802.11 ac 2×2 Wi-Fi antenna that gives you faster wireless speeds. Meanwhile, the perfectly-positioned antennas maximize your chances of finding and connecting to a wireless signal.

In terms of ports and connectivity, the HP Spectre has three multi-use USB-C Type-C ports, all of which support charging, high-speed data transfer, and external displays.

There are two Bang & Olufsen speakers on either side of the HP Spectre’s keyboard.

HP Spectre Pricing

The HP Spectre can be customized with different sizes of SSDs. However, the two core pricing options are for the i5 and i7 model:

  • i5: $1169.99
  • i7: $1249.99

Both prices will increase when you add an SSD and other features onto your laptop.

At the time of writing, the HP Spectre was out of stock on the official HP website. HP has faced high demand for the laptops since launching at the end of April 2016. You may be able to find the HP Spectre at your local Best Buy or from BestBuy.com.


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Garmin Vivofit 3 Review – Best Fitness Activity Smartwatch Tracker?

Garmin Vivofit 3 Review

The Vivofit 3 is a fitness tracker created by GPS company Garmin. The fitness tracker was announced at the beginning of 2016 and just recently launched. Here’s our review.

garmin-vivo-fit

What is the Garmin Vivofit 3?

The Garmin Vivofit 3 is a fitness tracker priced at around $100. The fitness tracker shows steps, calories, distance, intensity minutes, and time of day on a wrist-mounted backlit display. When you wear it at night, it can also monitor your sleep.

Garmin wants you to wear the Vivofit 3 when you’re walking, running, biking, swimming, using an elliptical, and performing all other types of movements. Best of all, the Vivofit 3 promises that you won’t need to tell your tracker that you’re performing a new activity: it will automatically recognize your new activity on-the-fly. So when you stop running and start walking, the Vivofit 3 will recognize that.

All data is synced to the Garmin Connect mobile app, letting you view more detailed information about your activity and movement for the day.

Let’s take a look at some of the key features on the Garmin Vivofit 3.

Garmin Vivofit 3 Features

-1 year battery life

-Shows steps, calories, distance traveled, intensity minutes, and time of day

-Monitors sleep

-Auto-activity detection classifies activity type on Garmin Connect

-Reminds you to stay active with move bar and audible alert

-Automatically syncs to Garmin Connect app on your mobile device so you can track, plan, and share progress

-0.39” x 0.39” display with 64×64 resolution

The tracker is designed to be worn 24/7. It monitors your activity whether you’re moving, sleeping, or watching TV. It’s also water-resistant so you can wear it in the pool or the shower.

If you stop moving for too long, the Garmin Vivofit 3 will start to display a red “move” bar on the display. After 1 hour of inactivity, the tracker will emit a gentle alert sound. The move bar will build every 15 minutes until you reset it by walking for a couple minutes.

Your Garmin Vivofit 3 will automatically sync to Garmin Connect throughout the day. This free app displays information on your fitness achievements from yesterday – including how you can beat those achievements tomorrow. The app also delivers healthy tips from experts – so it’s kind of like a virtual coach and fitness tracker rolled into one.

It’s important to note that the Vivofit 3 itself does not come with a heart rate monitor. However, you can purchase an additional heart rate monitoring chest strap for detailed heart rate information.

Appearance

Garmin-Vivofit-3-reviewOne of the most striking things about the Garmin Vivofit 3 is its wide variety of styles and wearable options. You can choose from accessory bands in a variety of color schemes, letting you coordinate your Garmin Vivofit 3 to your wardrobe. In addition to choosing the color, you can choose the physical design of your band – including checkered patterns, line patterns, interweaving ropes, and much more.

You can swap out your Garmin Vivofit 3 into any of these bands whenever you like. Pop it out and pop it back in to suit whatever outfit you’re wearing today.

If you want to get even more fashionable, then you can purchase one of the Jonathan Adler-designed Vivofit 3 bracelets, which include unique shapes, patterns, and designs.

As Garmin explains,

“Now there’s a band for every occasion, so you can look your best while continuing to beat yesterday.”

Garmin Vivofit 3 Pricing

Garmin Vivofit 3 is priced at $99.99 for the regular and extra-large black and white versions.

The Camo version is priced at $109.99 and the “Gabrielle Style Collection” is priced at $119.99.

Accessories include a carrying case ($20), belt clip ($25), the Soft Strap Premium Heart Rate Monitor ($70), USB ANT Stick ($50), and extra bands ($30 to $40).

What Do Customers Have to Say About the Garmin Vivofit 3?

The Garmin Vivofit 3 has received average reviews since launching on Amazon.com, where it currently has an average rating of 3.3 stars out of 5 (although there are just 37 customer reviews). Some of the pros and cons we got from the reviews include:

-Accurate fitness tracking when transitioning between activities, including biking, running, and swimming

-Easy setup through the Garmin Connect app

-Bands for a regular-sized wrist were “far too large”, with one customer stating that he had to take a pair of scissors to the band to make it fit more comfortably (the wrist is designed to fit a circumference of 5.4” to 7.7”)

-Comfortable wrist-strap that can easily be worn as long as you like

-Some people may not like wearing a chunky piece of plastic around their wrists 24/7, as the Vivofit 3 is quite large and many of the designs are vibrant and immediately noticeable on your wrist

-Flexible warranty

Ultimately, the Vivofit 3 received good – but not great – reviews across most of the internet. Most of the complaints appear to revolve around the aesthetics and physical appearance of the watch instead of its actual technical features.

About Garmin

Garmin is best-known for its GPS navigation systems, but it also makes a wide variety of tech accessories and fitness trackers.

The company’s About page describes its mission as “creating superior products for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports that are an essential part of our customers’ lives.”

Garmin maintains its US headquarters in Lenexa, Kansas (which is also where it was founded) but is now based in Schaffhausen, Switzerland.

Should You Use the Garmin Vivofit 3 as Your Next Fitness Tracker?

The Vivofit 3 is a well-reviewed fitness tracker priced at a reasonable rate of $100. It never needs to be charged and is designed to be worn 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don’t have to touch the device to record new activities: it automatically detects new activities for you. So you can seamlessly transition from running to biking to swimming without ever needing to adjust it.

At a price of $100, Vivofit 3 is easily the best fitness tracker in its category. The few complaints about the device – like a strap that’s slightly too big or designs that you may not like to wear – are unlikely to have a major effect on most users. If you’re looking for a convenient fitness tracker that keeps up with all your activities (and inactivities), then the Vivofit 3 may be the right choice for you.

 


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Thursday, 16 June 2016

Loungy Chair Review – Military-Grade Air Lounger?

Loungy Chair – Portable & Inflatable Lounger?

Summer is all about spending time outside. Whether it’s hanging out at the beach with friends or barbequing by a pool, once the weather turns warmer, people want to be outside enjoying the weather. And, with all the amazing activities and events that take place during the summer, there are hundreds of things to do in the warm summer weather.

With the many hours spent outside, it makes sense that people spend a lot of their focus and money on creating comfortable spaces for the outdoors. From patios and verandas to outdoor kitchens and seating, there are several different options for those who want to relax and rest outside.

And, for those who want seating on the go, there are also several options. From folding chairs to hammocks, people can pick the choice that works best for them.

Unfortunately, the problem with so many of the portable outdoor seating options is that they’re bulky, heavy, and aren’t very versatile.

A folding chair can be hauled across the beach and set up with a bit of grunting, but if that beach is covered in stones or is even slightly uneven, that chair won’t sit there. And even the portable hammocks that have become so popular in recent years only work if there’s somewhere to anchor them.

Until now, there haven’t been many options available for comfortable seating that can be taken anywhere and be set up on any terrain.

It was this lack that led to the creation of Loungy Chair. Unlike other outdoor chair options, the Loungy Chair is light, making it easy to carry around. And, the Loungy Chair can be set up anywhere, on any type of terrain, making it ideal for all summer activities.

About Loungy Chair

Loungy Chair was created in the same manner that some of the world’s greatest inventions were created: Out of necessity. The headquarters for Loungy Chair are located in Santa Barbara, a beautiful town that is known for its rocky beaches.

While these beaches are ideal for lounging, tanning, and hanging out, the terrain makes it complicated to set up the average portable chair. In order to create a comfortable, easy to inflate, portable chair option, Loungy Chair was made.

As mentioned already, Loungy Chair is an inflatable, outdoor lounge chair that can be used on a wide range of terrains, without the fear of popping it. Because Loungy Chair is made out of parachute-grade, ripstop nylon, it is extremely durable.

And, even though it’s inflatable, Loungy Chair doesn’t take a pump or long minutes of blowing to fill it. Due to the simplicity of Loungy Chair, it has quickly become a favorite for those who want a superior, more comfortable lounge chair experience.

Loungy Chair is divided into two different tubes, or sleeves. In order to inflate these sleeves, one should be opened while the other is kept closed. Then, Loungy Chair can be moved through the air so that the air collects in the sleeve.

Once Loungy Chair has been moved through the air two or three times, it should be filled and can be quickly closed to keep the air inside. Then, the same process can be repeated with the other sleeve. Once both sleeves are filled, they can be buckled closed to keep it secure. And, just like that, within a few seconds, users can have a comfortable, inflatable lounge chair that can be taken and set anywhere.

Loungy Chair comes in an easy to carry case and, once deflated, takes up very little space. In addition to being very small in size, Loungy Chair is also very light. With the case, Loungy Chair weighs less than three pounds.

For those who have ever struggled lugging chairs across the beach or to a picnic site, the lightness of Loungy Chair is one of the biggest draws. Not only does the Loungy Chair carrying case fit easily into other bags or packs, but it can be carried on its own.

And, since Loungy Chair can be set on even the most uneven terrain, where it goes is completely up to the creative minds of its owners. Many users of Loungy Chair have taken it camping and on rock climbing expeditions, using it to rest or even sleep in after a long day.

Benefits of Loungy Chair

As mentioned above, one of the biggest benefits of Loungy Chair is that it is so light and convenient to carry around.

Summer is already hot enough and people don’t want to be sweating from carrying around their heavy chairs before the events of the day have even started.

With Loungy Chair, users can carry it anywhere without a second thought, using its easy carry bag to take it from mountain tops to beaches with no hassle.

Even though the Loungy Chair weighs less than three pounds, because it is made of the best materials available, it is extremely durable. Most people are shocked when they feel the material used to make Loungy Chair.

Since Loungy Chair is made from parachute grade, ripstop nylon, it can take the roughness of most terrains, from the rocky beaches of Santa Barbara to the sharp grass of a barbeque in the park. And the strength of Loungy Chair material isn’t just felt in where it can be used, but also how many people can use it.

Loungy Chair is pretty large when fully inflated, making it perfect for more than one person to sit on. And, because Loungy Chair is so durable, it can take over 400 pounds, making it a perfect chair for sharing.

In addition to being made out of the same material used by the military to make their parachutes, Loungy Chair is also water resistant. After all, if a chair is going to be used at a beach or a pool, users don’t want to be worried about what will happen if they get water on it.

Loungy Chair is coated in a polyurethane which allows the chair to be both resistant to water and still extremely light, flexible, and durable. Because of this, even if it’s splashed or blown into the water, Loungy Chair will stay safe.

As described above, Loungy Chair is very simple to inflate and deflate. When people are ready to head out and spend time with their friends and family, they don’t want to spend their time setting up chairs, tables, and pavilions, they want to have fun.

With Loungy Chair, there’s no worry about how long it will take to set up. Within a few seconds of arriving, users can pull their Loungy Chair from its easy carry bag, move it through the air, seal it, and be ready to go. And, in the same way it’s easy to inflate, it’s also extremely easy to deflate. Once the sleeves are opened, Loungy Chair can be rolled up so the air is completely pushed from the device, allowing users to put it back in its pouch.

Purchasing Loungy Chair

Loungy Chair is made in the United States, meaning that once it is purchased, it is able to get to users sooner. Once users have purchased their Loungy Chair, there will be a two to five day processing period followed by a two to five day delivery time, if using USPS priority mail. And, for those who spend more than $200 on Loungy Chair, they will get completely free shipping.

The list of the Loungy Chair options and prices can be found below.

  • Loungy Chair Black – $89
  • Loungy Chair Blue – $89
  • Loungy Chair Green – $89
  • Loungy Chair Pink – $89
  • Loungy Chair Red – $89

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Monday, 13 June 2016

Lumify X9 LED Flashlight Review – Worth It?

The Lumify X9 LED Flashlight is a recently-released flashlight that promises to offer high-powered lighting and tactical military strength. Here’s our review.

What is the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight?

The Lumify X9 LED Flashlight is a tactical flashlight that calls itself the “world’s strongest and brightest tactical flashlight”. After turning on the Lumify X9, it will be “bright enough to see everything”, according to the makers of the flashlight.

Obviously, these are some bold claims. The Lumify X9 LED Flashlight claims to work by blinding enemies using high-powered lighting. In a test video, the flashlight also showed offs its strength by being run over with a truck while still staying on the whole time.

Better yet, the flashlight claims to be made with aircraft-grade aluminum. There are multiple strobe settings, brightness levels, and zooms available. It’s also available through a 75% off offer online. This is very similiar to the most popular taclight on the market, the Shadowhawk X800 model. You can also compare it to various ones that are gaining momentum in the as seen on TV space in the Bell & Howell TacLight.

Let’s take a closer look at the tech specs of this new tactical flashlight.

Lumify X9 LED Flashlight Features and Tech Specs

  • 5.1 inches compressed length (6.6 inches extended length)
  • 1.37 inches wide at the tip, 1.1 inches wide at the base
  • 1 to 2000x zoom capabilities and adjustable focus beam
  • SOS strobe settings (flashlight flashes on and off rapidly to alert emergency services)
  • XPE Tactical LED with 100,000 hours of lamp life
  • 800 lumens of light output
  • 3 x AAA batteries
  • 5 modes, including High, Medium, Low, Strobe, and SOS
  • Made from aircraft-grade aluminum

The only tech spec here that’s a bit misleading is the “aircraft-grade aluminum” part. We’ve seen a number of tactical flashlight makers make similar claims online. Aircraft-grade aluminum is the same stuff you see on bike tires and golf clubs. It’s a specific lightweight aluminum alloy commonly used across multiple industries – so don’t be fooled into thinking you’re getting the same standard-of-quality seen on fighter jets.

Otherwise, all of the above tech specs are pretty much what we expect from a low-budget tactical flashlight.

Lumify X9 LED Flashlight Pricing

Here’s how pricing breaks down for the flashlight:

  • 1 Flashlight: $79
  • 2 Flashlights: $97
  • 3 Flashlights: $119
  • 4 Flashlights: $169
  • 5 Flashlights: $145
  • 10 Flashlights: $350
  • 20 Flashlights: $700

As you can see, buying 5 flashlights is actually cheaper than buying 4 flashlights, due to the recent promotion. All purchases come with free shipping. You can pay online using any major credit card.

The makers of the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight make numerous mentions of a 75% discount offer. That offer is automatically applied to your purchase on checkout, although we couldn’t find any evidence that the flashlight is ever sold at its “full” price without the 75% discount – so it appears this is a bit of a marketing tactic (the manufacturer claims the normal price is $116).

If you think this is a good deal, take a quick look at Amazon’s flashlight selection. You can get flashlights that look identical to the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight (and have the same 3W Cree XPE bulb) for about $10 to $20.

Who Makes the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight?

The flashlight is made by a company named Lumify Flashlights. That company claims that the flashlights are designed in the United States, although they don’t claim the flashlights are actually manufactured in the United States.

Lumify Flashlights lists the following mailing address:

Suite 600, 1201 Orange St
Wilmington, DE 19899

The company claims its customer service team is based in California. You can get in touch with their customer service team by emailing lumifyflashlights@gmail.com.

When you look at the Lumify Flashlights terms and conditions, you’ll learn that the brand is owned and operated by Tea Tank LLC. We couldn’t find any additional information about Tea Tank available online, although there is a product called “Tea Tank” that keeps your tea warm or cold. They don’t appear to have any connection to the flashlight maker.

Should You Buy the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight?

The Lumify X9 LED Flashlight claims to be a tactical flashlight suitable for use by military and police forces around the world.

In reality, we couldn’t find any evidence that police or military members use a budget flashlight like this in real operations. There’s also the problem that similar flashlights with similar tech specs are available for about $10 to $20 from Amazon – compared to the per-unit price of $79 for the Lumify X9.

If you don’t mind paying the premium price tag for an average flashlight, then the Lumify X9 LED Flashlight may be the right flashlight option for you. However, most people will be able to find better deals on similar flashlights ordering direct from Amazon and other retailers.


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Thursday, 9 June 2016

Vortech Extreme Vortex Mixer Review – New Protein Shaker Technology?

Vortech Review – High Quality Vortex Mixer?

Vortech is a company that makes a high-powered blender that can break down any powder or smoothie mixture in just five seconds. This is our review.

Vortech

What is Vortech?

Getting healthy often involves a lot of new meals, some of which are replaced with protein shakes and smoothies. However, when you mix up all of your ingredients, you usually end up with clumps of protein powder, which definitely does not make your drink appealing. Soon, you blend the drink beyond what you need to and all of the other ingredients are destroyed in the process. Luckily, Vortech has created a blender that can remedy this issue.

Vortech has created a mixer that has a 9000 RPM motor, which is the whole reason that it can break through all of the different textures, including powder, for a smooth drink every time. Regardless of the thickness of your particular recipe, this blender can break through everything in only five seconds. That’s less than the time you need to prepare your recipe in the first place. Some common drinks you can easily blend include:

  • Pre/post workout smoothies with protein powder
  • Cocktails
  • Juice
  • Scrambled eggs mix
  • Milkshakes
  • Pancake batter

The design of this cup makes it incredibly user friendly, since it has a pre-formed spout to eliminate the mess as you drink straight from the cup or pour it into a separate cup. To prevent any spills, the leak-proof lid is designed to twist on firmly. On this cup, you will also find:

  • A scientifically engineered blade
  • A rechargeable battery
  • A detachable base
  • A USB charging cable

Make sure to keep all of the components of the mixer together to avoid losing a crucial piece. However, almost all of the pieces remain attached to device anyway, so you shouldn’t have to concern yourself with finding anything but the charger.

Vortech Technology

The whole reason that the Vortech mixers are able to break through anything is due to the high-powered motor, which can be recharged. In fact, you don’t even actually need a cord to use the mixer at all. All you need to do is to charge it up before you go anywhere. Then, you can get your fresh ingredients on the way to the gym or work and blend up your drink the car.

The fact that this product can be taken along with you without any kind of power source is probably one of its greatest strengths. This versatility helps you to take it along to the gym, on vacations, and just about anywhere else. In fact, this is a great way to bring along fresh produce during a camping trip, but without having to sacrifice your healthy eating plan.

When you need to clean the device, you can take off the base to wash it. There is no indication on the website regarding the requirements for washing it. To be safe, you should probably hand wash the mixer and let it air dry between uses.

Pricing for a Vortech Mixer

With all of this information about the technology, you are probably waiting anxiously to get your hands on this mixer. When you go to order the product, you can order up to three mixers in one batch. Each additional mixer earns you a discount on the overall cost.

For one mixer, your total cost is $44.95. If you decide to purchase two mixers at the same time, your total cost is $69.95, which saves you $20.00 from the total cost.

However, the best deal is when you purchase three mixers at the same time. The total cost would be $89.95, which is a total savings of $45.00.

You will not have any shipping costs when you make your purchase.

Contacting Vortech

If you want to speak with someone about this technology, then customer service representatives are waiting to answer your questions. To speak with someone via phone, call 1-877-624-2840. The website does not have any hours of operation listed.

If you cannot reach someone via phone, you can also email your inquiry to contact@vortech.com.

To keep updated on any new products or new developments in technology, you can follow along on the company’s social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. You can also enter your email on the website to join their newsletter mailing list.

Conclusion

The Vortech mixer is designed to make it possible to blend up your drinks and smoothies anywhere, which eliminates all of the excuses that you may have for not eating healthy or lacking the time. All you need to do is charge up the mixer before you leave the house, and you can bring it along everywhere.

The best way to save money on this device is by ordering multiple mixers. You can keep one at home, while you keep one at the office and one in your gym locker. No matter where you go, you can have a healthy meal with the Vortech mixer.


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Geizeer Review – Portable Eco-Friendly Ice Cooling Air Conditioner?

Is The Geizeer Mini A/C Any Good?

While everyone looks forward to enjoying the summer in the sun, when it comes right down to it, the summer can get extremely hot. In fact, in some places when summer gets in full swing, people are actually advised to stay indoors because the heat is too much. The heat doesn’t deter people, though, and across the world people spend their summers by the pool or at the beach, completely carefree. At least until their electric bill comes in.

Summer is great for a few good parties and cookouts, but most adults with their own homes know that with summer comes increased electric bills. After all, the heat that summer is known for isn’t exactly wanted inside. In order to keep themselves cool and comfortable, most people spend the summer with their air conditioners on, appreciating the comfort, but hating how much they have to pay for it.

What makes electric bills worse is that most of the time the entire house doesn’t even need to be cooled. Most people spend their time in their living room or bedroom, so cooling the rest of their home is an expensive waste. Unfortunately, unless homeowners have an expensive smart system that can keep some rooms cooler and others warmer, people just have to suck it up and pay their bills.

However, there is a new solution that is exciting people. The Geizeer is a cooling system that sits in the room like a decoration while keeping the entire room comfortable, without the need of air conditioning. The Geizeer is an amazing new device that is set to transform how people keep themselves cool, saving them money without sacrificing comfort.

About Geizeer

Most of the best inventions in the world were created out of a dire necessity. The same is true for Geizeer. This amazing mechanism was designed by a group of creative thinkers who were tired of sitting in their stuffy, hot offices during summer months. Because air conditioning was not an option, they got to work designing a battery powered cooling system that could easily give them relief.

Geizeer, which is designed to look like a beautiful decoration, is made of one of the best natural insulators in the world: Wood. Two wooden shells were created out of wood, with frames of metal finishing the interior. Inside the Geizeer is a rechargeable battery and a micro USB, which allows for cheap, easy charging. There is also a place for an ice pack in the bottom shell and a brushless fan in the upper shell.

At the moment, Geizeer is only available for pre-purchase through the devices Kickstarter campaign. While the campaign has already been completely funded, there are still several opportunities available for those who want to get a Geizeer for themselves, once it is sent out to supporters. As mentioned above, Geizeer is made from wood. However, it comes in a natural wood look or a lacquered, shiny look. Both options are still available.

In addition to both the natural and lacquered looks being available for pre-purchase on the Geizeer Kickstarter page, there are two ventilation grid options. The first is a linear option, which is just a normal grid of squares inside a larger square. The second grid option is a parametric grid. While both will work the same way, the parametric option looks a little more decorative, pulling towards the center so the middle looks like a four petal flower.

How Geizeer Works

The way Geizeer works is that the ice pack at the bottom of the device creates a cooled environment within in the box. The fan then sucks in the warm air and releases a cooled air that can lower the temperature in rooms up to 12 square meters. What makes Geizeer so amazing is that it is able to cool specific rooms that are the most frequented, without the use of expensive air conditioning. And, it is able to do this for less than one cent a day.

Geizeer is also extremely easy to use. The ice pack can be cooled in the freezer and easily placed in the lower compartment of the device. When the device isn’t in use, it can be lifted and turned so that the sides aren’t touching, which would turn on the fan. Once the ice pack is in place, the box can be rotated so the two halves are lined up and touching. This will turn Geizeer on, allowing it to cool the room.

The cooling effects of Geizeer can last for hours and if users purchase a backup freezer pack, they can continuously replace the melted ones with a frozen option to keep their rooms cool throughout the day. And, even though Geizeer is small, it is able to spread out cooler air at a full 360 degrees. For insulated rooms, Geizeer can cool a full 12 square meter room at least three degrees, allowing users to relax in comfort without worrying about their electric bill.

In addition to its cooling capabilities, Geizeer also works as an amazing diffuser. One of the problems with the hot, humid weather of the summer is that it tends to make unpleasant smells more obvious. For those who want to cool and refresh their rooms, a fragrance of choice can be placed in the Geizeer, so as the air circulates, it releases the fragrance as well. Because of this feature, Geizeer is both a cooler and a diffuser all wrapped into one.

Purchasing Geizeer

As mentioned previously, Geizeer is currently in its fundraising stage. At the moment, it has a campaign on Kickstarter, where it has already met its first goal. However, it has set several more goals, so supporters still have an opportunity to have access to the first set of Geizeer’s released. Because the production process is quite lengthy, supporters will be getting their devices around September of this year.

Below are the options available for supporting the Geizeer, as well as the prizes for each. Unless otherwise indicated, all the packages below contain a Geizeer, one ice pack, and micro USB to USB cable. Because the options presented by Geizeer on Kickstarter are broken down by price, so are the options below.

$97

  • Natural and Linear Geizeer
  • Natural and Parametric Geizeer

$108

  • White Lacquered and Linear Geizeer
  • Black Lacquered and Linear Geizeer
  • Red Lacquered and Linear Geizeer
  • Blue Lacquered and Linear Geizeer
  • Orange Lacquered and Linear Geizeer
  • Black Lacquered and Parametric Geizeer
  • White Lacquered and Parametric Geizeer
  • Red Lacquered and Parametric Geizeer
  • Orange Lacquered and Parametric Geizeer
  • Blue Lacquered and Parametric Geizeer

$194

  • Two Natural Geizeer’s – Linear or Parametric

$205

  • One Lacquered and One Natural Geizeer – Linear or Parametric

$217

  • Two Lacquered Geizeer’s – Linear or Parametric

$729

  • Eight Natural or Lacquered Geizeer’s – Linear or Parametric

For the backing options that come with more than one Geizeer, an equal number of USB cables and ice packs are included.

In addition to the support options listed above, the Geizeer project page also offers two add-on options. For those who picked a Geizeer support option that only contained one of the devices, having another ice pack might be helpful. Because of this, supporters can add on one or two ice packs to their original purchase, so they can keep their rooms continuously cool and not have to wait to refreeze.


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Fojo Enfojer Review – Darkroom Photo Printing Development Phone Kit?

Is The Fojo Enfojer Right For You?

Art comes in hundreds of different shapes and forms. However, over the years, many people believe that certain art forms have lost their purity. Whether it’s due to the advancements in technology or just the general growth of society, there are several different art forms that have changed and adjusted over the years, to the regret of many people.

One art form that gets a lot of attention is photography. When photography was used almost 200 years ago, taking a picture was a process. It took patience and attention to detail. It also took a lot of heavy equipment and dedication from both the subjects of the photograph and the photographer. Over the years, photography has become easier and easier, changing the entire dynamic of the process.

Photography today is wonderful. People carry high-quality cameras with them in their pockets, taking images and videos at will. And there have never been more ways to shares these pictures and videos than there are today. Through social media, blogs, and other websites, people can share their photography with friends and family, as well as complete strangers on the other side of the world.

However, many people wonder if the convenience of photography now days has taken some of the spark out of the entire process. Some people wonder if there’s a certain beauty to the older ways of doing things, standing in dark rooms while photographs slowly take form before being hung up to dry. The problem is, even if this process of developing photos in a dark room is missed, not a lot of people have the equipment or the time to do it that way anymore. Until today.

Fojo offers those who want a chance to experience the darkroom process an easy, simple way of developing their own photographs. Using a mixture of older techniques and modern technology, Fojo is bringing the past and the present together and bringing back the art form that is photography.

What is Fojo?

Fojo is a kit that allows users to develop black and white photos as though they were in a darkroom. However, unlike the darkrooms of old, Fojo combines the use of its kit with a mobile app that makes the entire process easier than regular darkrooms, but the results just as beautiful. By creating this connection between the convenience of pictures on phones and the process of developing film, Fojo has brought the past into the future.

What makes Fojo such an amazing system is that it brings back the classic feel of hand developed, black and white photographs. While the colorful, high-res photographs of today are great, even when they are run through filters and retouched to perfection, there’s something special about holding a black and white photo. The details come out differently, offering an entirely different perspective. And it’s this difference that Fojo is offering to its users.

For those who have worked in darkrooms before, the question about time is always a big one when considering using Fojo for the first time. Those who are experienced with developing their own film know that usually the entire process takes around half an hour from start to finish. While the idea of having a darkroom photograph is great, not everyone has thirty minutes to do it. Thankfully, with Fojo, the entire process takes about five minutes, before the drying process, meaning users can get the experience without losing time.

How Fojo Works

One of the best things about Fojo is that it doesn’t take a photography expert to do the process. In fact, those who have never developed film before in their lives are having great success and fun using Fojo. There are step by step instructions, as well as video tutorials available for those who are a bit nervous about doing the process the first time.

Like all darkroom processes, the Fojo process needs to be done in a completely dark room. With the Fojo red light, the Roxanne Safelight, there will still be plenty of light available for those who are processing the photos. However, the room needs to be void of all other lights. It’s suggested that Fojo be used in a basement or bathroom, where controlling what light comes in is much easier.

The Fojo process is only three short steps, each one rather easy to follow if people take their time and don’t rush. Again, this is not a long process and will only take about five minutes from start to finish. The first step for Fojo is to load the photo that is going to be developed into the Fojo app. This app is available for most smartphones. Once the photo has been loaded into the app, it should be placed on the Enfojer. Photo paper is then added to the easel at this point.

Once the phone and paper are in place, the phone will begin the exposing process. Usually this part of the Fojo process takes about thirty seconds, though the app will let users know when it is done, so they don’t have to worry. Once the exposure is done, users can move the paper into the developer, finishing off the second step.

Finally, users can move the paper into the stop and fixer baths that should have been prepared before the process began. Once the photograph has been bathed, it can be hung up to dry. It’s at this point where users can spend time really looking at the amazing photograph they’ve been able to develop, with very little hassle and with gorgeous results.

Purchasing Fojo

Fojo is celebrating the shipping out of its first few orders, meaning there are several discounts available for the next set of purchases. Because Fojo is such a new product, it had several pre-orders, which have now been filled. Fojo is officially taking new orders, offering discounts and free shipping for all those who purchase soon.

While it’s recommended that those who are new to the darkroom developing process should purchase the Enjofer Kit, Fojo also offers the many items that make up the kit for those who need to buy replacements or only need a few of the items. However, at the moment, with the discounts being offered on all these products, buying the full kit makes the most sense.

All the amazing products offered by Fojo are listed below with their currently listed prices. However, because these prices represent the current specials, they are subject to change. The Enfojer Luxury Kit, Enjofer, and Roxanne Safelight all include a five year warranty. All the products below come with free worldwide shipping.

Enjofer Luxury Kit – $320

This kit includes the Enjofer enlarger, trays, tongs, the safelight, as well as 25 sheets of photo paper.

Enjofer – $174.90

The only available photographic enlarger that was designed specifically to develop photos from smartphones. Can also be used to develop film.

Roxanne Safelight – $51.90

An LED safelight made of a hard wood that provides the perfect amount of red light for users to see what they’re doing without ruining their photographs.

Fojographic Paper – $59.90

A pack of 100 sheets of resin-coated ADOX black and white paper. These sheets have been cropped to perfectly fit the Enfojer easel.

Fojo Tongs – $19.90

Four high-quality tongs that can be used to move the photographs between their baths. Made of sustainably grown wood and also water-resistant.

Fojo Trays – $28.90

A pack of four quality ABS plastic trays that can be used for the developing of 8×10 inch photographs.

Seagull Lens 75mmF3.5 – $53.90

An enlargement lens that allows the prints from the smartphone to be crisper.


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BuddyGuard Review – Flare Smart Home Security & A.I. Safety System?

Why The Need For BuddyGuard?

In this day and age, technology and innovation have worked their way into the lives of every individual. Emerging with the rise of smartphones and technology, individuals have been equipped with endless tools to make everyday living easier and more efficient. As technology advances, people have control of their lives at the tip of their fingertips. This “smart” technology has brought professional and personal priorities together seamlessly.

Once a vision of the future, technology has spread to all aspects of modern living. As technology has taken over the workforce, the next takeover will take place in every home. Feeling protected while at home, or away, puts the mind at ease. The ever changing integrated technological systems has allowed “smart” technology to make its way into every home.

The benefits from transforming a home using “smart” technology are endless. The technology will improve every aspect of how the house will operate, while increasing the accessibility and safety. “Smart” houses also bring down costs by making the systems run more efficiently, saving energy, and eliminating maintenance costs.

BuddyGuard’s Flare is an intelligent home security system that is interconnected through a single device. This new approach to home security takes on an innovative role by using cutting edge software, and adaptable artificial intelligence (AI) that is of the highest quality. BuddyGuard’s Flare offers protection, deters crime, provides optimal remote access monitoring, guarantees low cost, and most importantly, delivers a peace of mind.

About BuddyGuard

The founders behind BuddyGuard are a team of three men who together have a combined background in Computer Sciences, Mechatronics, and Marketing have created a product that is unparalleled in today’s current market. They envisioned making homes safer by creating intelligent security products that are not only easy to use, but are affordable for any budget.

As mentioned previously, BuddyGuard’s Flare brings the best functionalities of home security together in a single device. What makes the product unique is that it is self-managing and does not rely on the hassle of remembering alarm codes or constant monitoring. Flare takes care of everything using its advanced software allowing homeowners to sit back and go on with their lives.

BuddyGuard recommends purchasing two Flare’s, depending on the size and layout of the home. If it is an apartment, two are adequate, however, a bigger home with multiple entrances would benefit from the 3-Flare and 5-Flare package deals that are available. For optimal use, BuddyGuard advises one Flare to be place at the front entrance, and another at a back entrance, or balcony, fire exit, or window.

The installation of the Flare device is a smoothe and easy as all the aspects of the technology. The Flare can be installed in under 10 minutes. Once it is attached into the wall, the next step requires the user to download the BuddyGuard App onto their mobile device (iOS or Android), once the App is installed, the home is secured. No expertise of technical assistance is required. All that is needed to use Flare is a stable Wi-Fi connection, and a mobile device. BuddyGuard eliminates the use of cables bulky hardware.

BuddyGuard offers a variety of services to manage the use of the Flare. BuddyReact is a service that includes a monthly subscription to a local security company. The said security company is responsible for making house calls and conducting alarm follow ups in case of an event of emergency. The availability of this service varies as per security company. Currently, BuddyReact is only optional in Germany.

BuddySIM is another service offered with the Flare device. The BuddySIM works as a 3G backup add on which can be activated and deactivated each month. The backup allows the device to connect to every major network, in case Wi-Fi is not available. BuddySIM is not a requirement, but used out of necessity to ensure that the Flare device remains connected to the BuddyGuard Cloud server.

Because BuddyGuard advises the purchase of more than one Flare device, through the Cloud and Bluetooth, different devices can communicate, sync, and share data and settings with one another. Different Flare devices can also be placed in different locations, and sync the same settings to apply to both locations.

In order to guarantee optimal privacy and safety, Flare record and saves all audio, video, and image material to the Cloud. The data can be used as reference, or evidence in case of a home invasion. All the users in the first tier of the security hierarchy will be notified, and if the user has the BuddyReact service, the police will be dispatched immediately.

Features of BuddyGuard’s Flare

What makes Flare unique to all other home security systems is that all the features are packed into a small device, making it faster and “smarter” than other artificial intelligence devices. Designed to be minimal and chic, Flare is more than meets the eye. The technology that is inside of the Flare is just as important as what the device offers to the outside world.

Flare is comprised of a high-definition 1080p camera, 150 degrees’ wide-angle lens, and infrared LED night vision. The sensors include a motion detector, temperature sensor, and an accelerometer. The high quality audio includes a high-sensitivity microphone, integrated speaker, and a 90 db siren. Possessing one of the fastest processers on the market, Flare possesses a dual-core processor with 1.2 GHZ, and an ARM Cortex A9.

As mentioned before, the connection for the Flare requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection, Bluetooth, and 3G back-up. Flare also offers PrivacyGuard which includes a mechanical covering of the lens, automatic (de-)activation, and conform EU data protection. For power the Flare uses a 100-240 V power supply and lithium-ion batteries. The entire device measures 165 mm (6.50”) in diameter, 40mm (1.58”) in depth, and weighs 350 g (0.77 lb).

The features of Flare that truly stand out are the evolved aspects of the systems artificial intelligence (AI). Flare has the ability to process face recognition, identifying people by analyzing their features, and memorizing these features for future references. Speech recognition can also be used to access Flare to give directions, and have the device learn who is speaking.

Flare also uses geolocation and measures proximity of arrival or departure by a signal transmitted from the user’s mobile device. In order to retain privacy in the home, once authenticated by the user, the PrivacyGuard function allows the camera lens of Flare to be covered to prevent recording at that time. The Flare is also pet friendly and will not be triggered by pets, as the device is programmed to recognize animals and not mistake them for intruders. Flare also has a scheduling feature that allows the user to schedule when they will be going out of town, or program facial recognition when guests are staying over.

BuddyGuard Purchasing Options

The list below goes over the different subscription options available for those who want to use BuddyGuard products. Because there is really no price that can be put on privacy, many people find the low monthly costs of these services to be extremely worthwhile. And, with identity theft becoming more rampant every day, these small fees often pay for themselves.

The current price for the BuddyGuard Flare can also be found below.

  • BuddySIM: $5 per month
  • BuddyReact: $17 per month
  • BuddyCloud: $3 per month
  • BuddyGuard/FLARE: $435.19

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