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Snow Lizard XTREME 8+ iPhone case review

As Apple releases new products, case manufactures rush to add protection and fashion. Some add charging. I was recently sent a case that not only allows plugging into a charger but also has solar cells to charge your phone! It’s called the SLXtreme 8+ (because it’s from a company called Snow Lizard and is for the iPhone 8 Plus). I was sent a unit in Black to try with my new 8 Plus. It also comes in a Mossy Oak camo pattern.

Note: Photos may be tapped or clicked for a larger image.

What is it?

The Xtreme 8+ is a case, screen protector, and charger all in one. The case requires a totally naked phone but fits like a glove. You clamp the bottom on, which contains a Lightning connector and a link to the solar PV cells on the back of the case. There are clear covers for the full screen and a thinner cover over the home button which also allows the phone to read TouchID. There is also a large sealed clear aperture on the back which protects the rear camera and flash unit.

Hardware specs

  • Solar powered: Features a built-in trickle charger to keep your battery replenished. The solar indicator helps you position the case for best solar power Collection.
  • Integrated battery: built-in 5000 mAh battery boosts your phone’s power up to 185%, adding 16 hours of Talk time or 12 hours of app activity.
  • Waterproof: fully submergible to 6.6ft (2Ml for L hour). IP-68 Ingress protection rating. Water, mud, dust, snow, ice and sweat proof.
  • Rugged: handles drops up to 6.6ft (2Ml military Spec 810G certified). Newly rubberized grips provide protection against drops, bumps, spills or hammer misses. Screen protector prevents scratches.
  • Packaging reusable as an IP67 watertight, crushproof and dustproof dry box.
  • Compatibility: this SLXtreme case can be used to protect your iPhone 7Plus or iPhone 8Plus.

What’s in the box?

The packaging itself in a reusable, IP67 waterproof box. Inside it are the XTREME SL 8+, a USB A to microUSB cable, a 17” (doubled) lanyard loop with a detachable leash, an extra “O”-ring for the seal, and an instructional card.

Design and features

The Snow Lizard Xtreme is a 7.5” x 3.75” x 0.875” sealed case of hard PVC plastic. There are ridges down both long edges for gripping. On the face is a full-view clear touch-through screen cover that allows full view and control of the iPhone screen. There is a thinner membrane over the home button that allows TouchID to function (at least when it’s not underwater, according to the literature.) The bottom has a stopper-sealed USB port and a membrane-covered speaker/mic opening. There are passthrough controllers for every function except the ringer mute. The phone fits in snugly since the screen needs to touch the front for the touch-through to work. No skin or screen protector can be on it when in this case.

On the back, there is a solar panel about the same size as the iPhone 8 Plus’ screen fit flush. At the bottom, there is a rubberized on-off switch for the charger, and 4 blue LED battery capacity indicators. The microUSB connector (which has a waterproof plug) will first charge the phone through the case, then charge the battery.

When it came, I put the iPhone 8 Plus in straight-away, and was really blown away that the TouchID worked without any hesitation. It actually didn’t register with me at first, because I just turned on the phone in the usual way. (And isn’t that just the best way for tech to be implemented? It just does what you expect, NBD.)

Sound through the speakerphone or playing from Spotify is not quite as loud as the naked device or what it would be in the leather Apple case I usually use, but it was plenty loud. I noticed no delays or problems using Bluetooth devices through it.

There is a loop in the plastic on the lower right side for the lanyard to connect with. Be aware that this is a 16.25-ounce package, and that thin ribbon may be tough on your neck, but it’s pretty durable. There is a split-ring loop at the end that you could use for your company ID. It would allow you to unclip your phone and leave your lanyard/ID in place, should you need to set the phone down or connect it to a charging source.

What I Like

  • Smooth, precise fittings
  • Solar charger and battery work together with USB for full charging options
  • Mic, Speaker, and TouchID pass-throughs work very well.

What needs to be improved

  • Can’t think of a thing.

Final thoughts

There are few folks, in my opinion, who really need a full protective case like this, but there are loads of folks who use one anyway. My younger daughter is one – she’s rarely on a bike, kayaking, or doing anything more dangerous for her phone than walking to work in the rain. Yet she has a full-tilt Defender case, “just in case.” This one, however, with the solar and battery option, may be better than her current case.

If you need a “weekend” case for your hiking, biking, kayaking or just picnicking by the river, this would be one to strongly consider. If you’re in construction and away from power outlets, the solar charging is going to keep you charged up all day without having to worry that your phone is sitting on the hood of your truck while you’re 30 feet down a hill taking survey measurements when that sudden shower soaks everything.

Price: $129.99 on company store, slightly less on Amazon
Where to buy: Company website or their Amazon store
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Snow Lizard.

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Snow Lizard XTREME 8+ iPhone case review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 16, 2018 at 11:00 am.

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Spigen’s new iPhone X cases celebrate two classic Apple products from the past

Call me crazy but I love the overabundance of iPhone cases available today. And Spigen is the latest company to catch my eye. They have launched a new case lineup via an Indiegogo project. Spigen went all retro and designed two new cases inspired by Apple’s iconic iMac G3 (Classic C1) and the first iPhone (Classic One).

Back to the future

The Classic C1 limited edition case celebrates the 20th anniversary of the iconic iMac G3. It uses the same original candy-colors (Bondi Blue, Sage, Ruby, Snow, and Graphite) and translucent body design that made the G3 so iconic.

The C1 offers dual-layer protection in a 3-component design. A silver inner shell made of soft material that the iPhone fits into and an outer shell made of two pieces of translucent plastic that snap onto the iPhone.

Aside from the colors, there are a couple more unique touches in the design of the case. The inside of the case features a tribute to the 10th anniversary of the original iMac and the phrase “hello(again).  The back of the inner layer features chip and battery designs, with a cutout that lets the Apple iPhone logo show through. Because it’s see-through, the outer shell allows you to see the inner layer design just like on the iMac G3.

With the Classic One Spigen takes us all the way back to Steve Job’s very first iPhone. Its simple silver and black design transform your iPhone X into the original iPhone that we first saw back in 2007.

Unlike the C1 the Classic One is just a single layer design.

Both cases are constructed using a durable polycarbonate outer shell and shock-absorbing thermoplastic polyurethane inside. Spigen also incorporated their signature shock-reducing mechanism, Air Cushion Technology, that strategically protects all four corners of the iPhone X.

You can get both cases in a Classic Edition bundle for $35 exclusively on Indiegogo. Or you can also purchase the C1 by itself for $25. Both prices are only good for another month when the campaign is due to expire.

Spigen plans to begin shipping out the cases to backers in June.

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Spigen’s new iPhone X cases celebrate two classic Apple products from the past originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 16, 2018 at 10:00 am.

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This gives new comfort to sleeping on the couch

When space is limited in your home, you need furnishings that do double duty.  This product from CouchBed is the ideal product for folks living in a tiny home, a studio apartment, or for those without a guest room.  As the name suggests, the CouchBed is a couch that easily converts to a bed.

The CouchBed is a 10″ Memory Foam mattress that’s “made with 100% CertiPur certified ultra-dense memory foam, combined with phase-change material to actively cool the sleeping surface, so it won’t get hot like traditional memory foam.”  CertiPur means the product is free of “ozone depleters, formaldehyde, mercury, lead or heavy metals, and meet CertiPUR-US® standards for content, emissions and durability.”  The mattress is made with a “hinge”, so you can flip up part to turn the mattress into a couch.

CouchBed says it’s sturdy and comfortable enough to be used as your daily couch and daily bed.  It’s available in a twin size for $299.99 or a queen size ($449.99).  You’ll select from a black, charcoal, limestone, blue, or red cover, and you’ll receive two bamboo-infused Memory Foam pillows free with each CouchBed purchased.

If you desire a little extra height for your sofa and your bed, you can pre-order the adjustable platform.  The solid wood platform adds 10″ of height.  It slides closed when the CouchBed is in the couch form and slides open to accommodate the mattress form.  Platforms will begin shipping in June.  Twin size is $249.99 and the queen is $299.99.  If you are buying the CouchBed and platform together, use the COMBO code for a $50 discount.

Learn more and order at CouchBed.

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This gives new comfort to sleeping on the couch originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 16, 2018 at 9:00 am.

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The LG 43UD79-B 43″ 16:9 4K IPS Monitor is big, bright and right!


Video editing and photo editing can become a strain on your eyes, especially when working with a smaller monitor. The bigger the monitor, the easier it is to see all of the small details. In addition, I am usually multitasking, and I work with three monitors, with applications open on each one. I am beginning to get tired of this setup, and I also need to get a new monitor with 4K capability.

So far, my research has led me to a couple of monitors that I think will work well for me. The one that I am currently looking at is the LG 43UD79-B 43″ 16:9 4K IPS Monitor. This monitor has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 on a 43 inch In-Plane Switching panel, and provides a wide 178 degree viewing angle. It also features a Dual Controller that allows you to connect and control two computers with one mouse and keyboard. The 5ms response time is decent, along with a 60 Hz refresh rate, and support for up to 1.06 billion colors. This monitor also supports PIP and PBP modes for multitasking. The built-in ports include 2 x HDMI 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2 and 1 x USB Type-C port. There is a 200 x 200 VESA mounting capability on the back.

If you are thinking of the LG 43UD79-B 43″ 16:9 4K IPS Monitor as a display solution, you can purchase one at Amazon for $600.98.

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The LG 43UD79-B 43″ 16:9 4K IPS Monitor is big, bright and right! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 16, 2018 at 8:09 am.

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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns

This week we are bringing you seven crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This week’s campaigns are for people who like wool, action cams, tiny computers, and more. Check out our picks for this week’s notable crowdfunding campaigns.

ONEMERINOS – The World’s Best Travel & Business Socks!

What is it?
ONEMERINOS are socks made of 80% Merino wool.

Why do I like it?
I am swiftly becoming interested in Merino wool for the fact that you can wear garments made of this material multiple times before you need to wash them. Merino wool is also anti-stink, and antibacterial. ONEMERINOS claims that you can wear one pair of their socks for a whole week before you will need to wash them. That means less packing for travel.

Where can I find more info?
The ONEMERINOS campaign ends on 6/22/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $11,933. You can pre-order ONEMERINOS socks starting at $29 for 2 pair. After the ONEMERINOS campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

TRAWO by APEMAN -The Ultimate 4K Action Camera

blurb by Julian Perry

What is it?
The Apeman Trawo Action Camera is a 4K compact capable action cam.

Why do I like it?
I like the Apeman Trawo because it is a full-featured action camera, capable of video resolutions of 4K@30fps, 2K@60fps, and 1080P@120fps. It can also take 12MP photos. It also comes with a waterproof case that makes it great for underwater videos and photos, and it includes many other great features.

I did receive a pre-production model of this camera, and it seems to be well built. The setup was quick and easy once you select the language of your choice. In addition to the option for video and photos, there is also an option for time-lapse. The camera feels well built, and the waterproof case is also well constructed and seems to create a nice watertight seal. The package includes several GoPro style mounts, to support flexibility when mounting for action and adventure footage, including multiple mounts that can attach to a 1/4″-20mm stud. The mounts with the 1/4″-20mm threads are great for attaching the camera to tripods, and even waterproof monopods for underwater footage. The built-in ports include a micro USB port, a micro SD card port, a headphone jack, etc. There is also an app that is available to control the functions of the camera, including the ability to view live footage.

Where can I find more info?
The TRAWO campaign ends in a month and they just launched today and are well on their way towards their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a TRAWO starting at $89. After the TRAWO campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

D-Cache: Dynamite-sized Storage Container

What is it?
The D-Cache is a large dynamite shaped virtually indescribable storage top made of aluminum.

Why do I like it?
I like the D-Cache because it’s larger than most cache tubes and you won’t lose it due to the bright red color. I also like that they plan to offer caps with built-in functionality like a compass, glass breaker, magnet, lanyard attachment, and more. The D-Cache also has a cute feature with the dynamite fuse that you can switch from different colors to remind you what is stored inside the tube.

Where can I find more info?
The D-Cache campaign ends on 6/8/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $4,000. You can pre-order a D-Cache starting at $17. After the D-Cache campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Half Century Coat | An Almost Indestructible Wool Coat

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
The Half Century Coat is basically an old-school, plaid lumberjack-type heavy flannel shirt/jacket that is upgraded to probably be more durable than anything else in your wardrobe.

Why do I like it?
Spindle Collective’s Half Century Coat may look like a simple heavy flannel shirt, but it is more. Made from reinforced American wool, it is 6x stronger than cotton, anti-microbial, odor resistant, moisture-wicking, and fully breathable. Its cut is a custom, form-fitting taper with a slimming, tailored look, yet still has a true unisex fit. The Spindle Collective folks are claiming their Half Century Coat has a 50+ year durability (hence the clever name). It’s available in three plaid color patterns: red, blue, and white and each is hand serial-numbered. This is not your grandfather’s flannel shirt. Not by a long shot.

Where can I find more info?
The Half Century Coat campaign ends on June 3, 2018. To date, over 450 backers have pledged nearly $65,000, well beyond the $10,000 funding goal. Pledge packages start at $99. Visit the Half Century Coat Kickstarter campaign site for more info or to become a backer.

Rollux: The Most Versatile 2-in-1 Suitcase Around

What is it?
Rollux is a carry-on bag that transforms into a full-sized suitcase when you need extra space during your travels.

Why do I like it?
I like the Rollux because it’s like having two travel bags in one. A small 15.7 inch tall carry-on bag and a 33.4 inch tall large rolling suitcase. I also like that it has built-in USB port for device charging capability with an included power bank. Some rewards even have GPS capability so you can track your bags.

Where can I find more info?
The Rollux campaign ends on 6/12/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $50,000. You can pre-order a Rollux starting at $249. After the Rollux campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

DashPal – 24×7 Protection for Your Car & Driver

What is it?
DashPal is a dashcam, a car health sensor, and a car tracking sensor all in one.

Why do I like it?
I like the DashPal because it combines 3 car gadgets into one. You get a dashcam with 170-degree field of view and crash detection. You also get an OBDI adapter like the Automatic which automatically tracks driving style and trip data. And lastly, you get car health sensor that will tell you what that check engine light means on your dash.

Where can I find more info?
The DashPal campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they are getting close to meeting their funding goal of $35,000. You can pre-order a DashPal starting at $145. After the DashPal campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Mini PC

What is it?
The Mini PC is just what you’d guess. It’s a Windows PC in a mini-sized form factor.

Why do I like it?
The Mini PC reminds me a lot of the DualCor CPC that Judie tested 12 years ago! I’m not really sure that there’s a need for the Mini PC since you can buy a perfectly serviceable ultralight laptop or Chromebook which has a larger display, a keyboard and trackpad. That said, I can’t help but be interested in gadgets like this one because it reminds me of the handheld PCs of years ago and how exciting it was to cram a Windows PC into your pocket.

Where can I find more info?
The Mini PC campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they have met their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a Mini PC starting at $149. After the Mini PC campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 5:13 pm.

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