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The DRIPO Cold Brew Portable Barista Iced Coffee Maker may just make the perfect cup of iced coffee


Some of the readers that have been following my news stories already know that I am a coffee drinker, and that I must have 2 cups of French Vanilla flavored coffee first thing each morning when I get to work. This is the same for many of my co-workers, and can be the core of much contention, should my coffee make not have sufficient freshly brewed coffee at the expected time.

There is one specific co-worker who loves iced coffee, and this adds additional controversy since after everyone has had their share, there must be enough coffee left in the coffee maker for her to make her iced coffee. Unfortunately, there are many days when the coffee pot is bone way before lunchtime, and unfortunately, I get an earful of her complaints.

I decided to look for a solution specifically for her, and I found the DRIPO Cold Brew Portable Barista Iced Coffee Maker. This is a cold-drip coffee maker that uses its own cold drip method to brew iced coffee. It is a slow drip method that according to the manufacturer’s specifications, takes 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours to make the “perfect” cup of iced coffee. Apparently, other similar systems take a lot longer, which is one aspect that is supposed to make this coffee maker more appealing. It weighs only 1.2 pounds, and makes a 10 ounce cup of coffee in the self-contained cup. And of course, you can use your favorite brand of coffee.

If you would like to give the DRIPO Cold Brew Portable Barista Iced Coffee Maker a try, you can purchase one on Amazon for $23.99.

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The DRIPO Cold Brew Portable Barista Iced Coffee Maker may just make the perfect cup of iced coffee originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 10, 2018 at 8:00 am.

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Pitaka MagHive, Razor fountain pen, backpacks, 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 backpacks, pens, and more. Check out our picks for this week’s notable crowdfunding campaigns.

Pitaka MagHive

What is it?
The MagHive is a modular hub that wirelessly charges your smartphone, and keeps track of your keys, and offers a digital assistant with a touchscreen display that can be used to view reminders, messages left by others, alert you when someone leaves or comes home, and more.

Why do I like it?
Pitaka sent me an early prototype of their MagHive and I like it because it’s a sleek looking modular hub that’s made of hexagonal wooden plates that connect together electrically and magnetically to remind you of what you need to do before you leave the house or office. There’s a magnetic charging module that wirelessly charges your smartphone (has to be Qi compatible), a magnetic NFC module that knows when you place or remove your keys or wallet, and a display module. The display module features a 5-inch touchscreen device that is used to display reminders, notices, voice messages, and more. It works like a digital assistant so you can keep track of you and your family. The whole system can be arranged however you like and can be placed on a table or mounted on a wall. Whenever you remove an item from one of the plates, the display module wakes up and displays any important reminders.

Where can I find more info?
The MagHive campaign ends on 7/8/2018 and they are just beginning their climb to their funding goal of $11,579. You can pre-order a MagHive starting at $215. After the MagHive campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

ONYXX Wireless Smartphone Charger with Power Bank

What is it?
The ONYXX is a dust and water resistant wireless charger that can be used even when it’s not connected to an outlet and it can be used as a 5000 mAh power bank.

Why do I like it?
I don’t currently have a smartphone that supports wireless charging (unfortunately), but if I did, the ONYXX looks like a nice charger with the extra feature of becoming a backup battery when you’re on the go.

Where can I find more info?
The ONYXX campaign ends on 6/9/2018 and they are just beginning their climb to their funding goal of $12,000. You can pre-order an ONYXX starting at $49. After the ONYXX campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

AmpPack – World’s First Smart Phone Case w/ Wireless Earbuds

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
AmpPack is a smartphone case that combines several useful features into a single a product.

Why do I like it?
AmpPack is way more than “just” a smartphone case. It combines a slim, silicone-bumper, drop-protective case with backup battery for your phone and an on board set of automatically-pairing Bluetooth wireless earbuds. Additionally, via wireless Qi or cable, the case can charge itself, your phone and the earbuds simultaneously. AmpPack also has a soft-touch feel and contoured shape. And this is just the tip of the iceberg with respect to the features packed into this case.

Where can I find more info?
The AmpPack campaign ends on 6/16/2018 and they are about halfway to their funding goal of $75,000. You can pre-order an AmpPack starting at $140. After the AmpPack campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in October 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Razor: A Minimalism Titanium Fountain Pen

What is it?
The Razor is a CNC machined titanium fountain pen with a modern sleek design.

Why do I like it?
I like the Razor Titanium fountain pen because it has a cool industrial look to it that appeals to me. But the really cool feature is that it can hold two ink cartridges. That means you’ll always have a backup ink cartridge with you when you run out. It also hides another feature that you probably will never need to use. It has a built-in ultra hard cemented tungsten carbide glass breaker on the end.

Where can I find more info?
The Titanium Fountain Pen campaign ends on 6/2/2018 and they have some work to do before they will reach their funding goal of $8,000. You can pre-order a Titanium Fountain Pen starting at $145. After the Titanium Fountain Pen campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

KableCARD | Multi-functional Cable Essentials For Your Phone

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
KableCARD is a multi-function charging device that also includes adapter accessories and other features that might just make it your all-in-one solution for travel or commuting.

Why do I like it?
KableCARD is literally packed with features. The main portion is a small, credit card-size clamshell case. The case itself can act as a wireless charger for your Qi-enabled smartphone which can be used laying down or as a device stand/cradle. Inside, it features a 6-in-1, USB Type C cable with multiple adapters to cover just about any device. It also includes a micro SD card reader and SIM ejector pin inside. Outside, it has an ambient light that gives a soft glow that can act as a nightlight or backlight while you watch movies. Pretty sure I’m still missing some features! I’m quite fond of devices that can perform multiple functions, and KableCARD performs quite a few.

Where can I find more info?
The KableCARD campaign ends on 6/16/2018 and they have already met their funding goal of $6,333. You can pre-order a KableCARD starting at $29. After the KableCARD campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

The World’s Most Advanced Modular Backpack

What is it?
The ITR – The One Backpack is a redesign of the traditional backpack into a modular system which adapts what you need by changing its compartments. You can turn it into your camera bag, work & gym pack, suit carry bag, travel pack or use it as a tech-backpack.

Why do I like it?
I like the ITR – The One Backpack because it’s up to you to make it do your bidding by just switching components using a German designed click and go system with magnetic modules.

Where can I find more info?
The ITR – The One Backpack campaign ends on 6/6/2018 and they have already met their funding goal of $10,191. You can pre-order an ITR – The One Backpack starting at $139. After the ITR – The One Backpack campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in November 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Breaker One Bag

What is it?
The Breaker One Bag is a backpack for people who like the idea of organizing everything into one bag.

Why do I like it?
I like the Breaker One Bag because it’s made of water and abrasion resistant 840D nylon, offers 12 compartments, 6 organizational pockets, a water bottle holder complete with a drain, a laundry bag, compression straps, accessories pouch, TSA-approved toiletry bag, and a tech organizer for all cords and devices.

Where can I find more info?
The Breaker One Bag campaign ends on 6/6/2018 and they are still working towards their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a Breaker One Bag starting at $159. After the Breaker One Bag campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in October 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

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Pitaka MagHive, Razor fountain pen, backpacks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 9, 2018 at 11:30 am.

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MPOW H5 Active Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones review

This is me, on a Philly train during rush hour, enjoying blissful solitude. How is this possible? I’m rocking the MPOW H5 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones. Spoiler alert: the active noise canceling feature is the real deal. Let’s have a look!

What is it?

They are Bluetooth enabled headphones with a noise canceling mode that reduces low-frequency background sound.

Hardware specs

  • Bluetooth 4.1
  • Active noise canceling mode
  • Aux-in port for wired use
  • 20-hour battery life
  • CVC 6.0 noise-canceling microphone
  • Inner ear cup size: 1.65- 2.95 in
  • Foldable & rotatable design

What’s in the box?

The package comes with a hard case, auxiliary cable, and USB to micro-USB charging cable.

Design and features

The MPOW H5 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth headphones are of the over-ear style, completely covering your ears to focus the sound. For a $50 pair of headphones, I was pleasantly surprised by the build quality. All the hardware and components are nice and burly, and the housings are all capped to protect the delicate bits. There’s nice thick padding on both the cups and the frame for comfort. It’s built to take the hard knocks associated with commuting or traveling.

I’ve found these headphones to be very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The ear cups swivel 90 degrees and include length adjustments to tweak the fit to your head shape. With a total weight of about 8 ounces, they also don’t feel like they are dragging you down.

All of your controls and ports are built into the ear pods. You’ll find the volume controls, power/Bluetooth button, and charging port on the left ear pod. The active noise control switch and aux cable port are on the right ear pod. Placement of the controls is on the rear of the cups so that can manage all your functions with your thumbs while the headphones are on. I have found that I occasionally hit the power/Bluetooth button when I go to adjust volume since it is set between those two controls. It’s not a huge problem, but it would be nice if MPOW tweaked the layout here.

The combo Bluetooth/power button is where you get started. Press and hold for two seconds, and voice indicator tells you that you’re powered up, pairing, and connected to your device. Bluetooth pairing is pretty straightforward. The headphones will go into discovery mode if no device is connected. By pressing and holding the button on power up, the device will go back into pairing mode if you want to connect a new device. Press and hold that same power button for 2 seconds to power down again. It’s all straightforward & easy to use.

Sound quality is great to begin with, but the active noise canceling (ANC) is the big feature here. It’s a slider switch that, when enabled, focuses the sound and reduces low-frequency noise. The MPOW Amazon page spends quite a bit of time qualifying how well this works, which gave me some doubts… until I used the headphones on a recent train trip and a cross-country flight. Boy, what a difference. Low level background noises like train rumblings and cabin just vanish. You’ll still hear higher-frequency and louder noises (think human voices, machinery), but even those are muted. I’ve also used it at the office, where it significantly reduces background noise on a busy office floor. It does a lovely job of focusing you in on your music, audiobooks, or podcasts. You’ll really notice the difference when you switch ANC mode off, and that background noise creeps back in again. I’m a believer.

MPOW does a nice job providing a complete package for travelers. The 20 hour battery life is great, and you can switch to wired mode to further extend your battery. The headset folds up nicely into an included hardshell case, which also includes an aux cable and a charger. There’s even a nice little web pocket in the case to corral your chords. Everything you need for long trips.

Two warnings about charging. When you flip it to ANC mode, it will continually drain the battery even if you are not connected to a device. There’s a green indicator light that lets you know when it’s on, but it’s kind of a bummer if you forget to hit the switch. The headphones are also not to be used with 12W chargers, or you risk overheating. Standard USB charging from your laptop is fine, as are most smartphone power blocks. I haven’t seen any issues with this, but they put a big warning sticker in the package. Forewarned is forearmed.

The MPOW H5 also sports an integrated microphone for making/receiving calls. Incoming sound is good, but outgoing audio is just OK. the microphone just sits too far away from your mouth, so I received reports of very muted sound when I used it. It’s a nice extra option, but I don’t know that I would rely on it for extended calls (like conference calls) on the road. You’ll need to speak very loudly to be heard.

Finally, it is important to note that the MPOW H5 is a bulkier headset at 5″ by 3 1/2″ in the case. It’s going to take up some room in your bag, and won’t fit in slim briefcases or backpacks if you already have your laptop and gear loaded up. There’s also no external attachment point to clip it to the outside of your bag. You’ll want to check the dimensions of your usual carry and packing needs.

What I like

  • Great sound quality with an active noise cancellation feature that really works
  • Very comfortable
  • 20-hour battery life
  • Aux-in cable option
  • Durable
  • Hard case included with purchase

What needs to be improved

  • Using ANC will drain the battery, even if you’re not connected
  • Rated for charging on 5W USB only
  • Bulky dimensions may not work for you if you’re traveling lean and mean
  • Phone microphone isn’t very useful

Final thoughts

If you’re a frequent commuter looking for a headset for listening to your tunes & podcasts, the MPOW H5 Active Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones are a good option. The noise reduction feature actually works, sound quality is great overall, and the unit is built with far more rugged durability than I see in most headphones at this price point. I would not recommend them if you’re on the phone a lot. Also keep in mind that while they are lightweight, you’re adding a chunky addition to your daily carry.

Price: $49.99
Where to buy: Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by MPOW.

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MPOW H5 Active Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 9, 2018 at 10:26 am.

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The LOOP Worldwide Adapter Plug will give you power wherever you go!

I love traveling to the Caribbean and especially South America, where I can get close to the Amazon and be surrounded by great photography opportunities. While I look forward to those trips, packing all of my gadgets and gear becomes a real chore. Since I simply must have every convenient gadget go along with me for the ride, I also have the tedious task of making sure that all of the relevant and appropriate AC chargers make the trip as well. And then it gets really complicated when I have to figure out if I have the right plugs for the countries I will be visiting.

If some of you are like me and deal with this challenge on your trips, then you will love the LOOP World Adapter Plug. This worldwide travel adapter charger is compatible in over 150 countries. It has built-in plugs for US, UK, EU, AU and CN, along with dual USB ports, and a universal AC socket with a built-in spare fuse. It also boasts intelligent charging that allows it to detect the device being charged, and adjust the power it provides to be efficient and fast charging. While the LOOP is a great solution, it is not a solution for all electronics, so it is not a good match for those power hungry devices such as hairdryers, or curling irons, or heat guns.

If the LOOP Worldwide Adapter Plug is a great fit for you as well, then head over to Amazon and pick one up for just $15.95.

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The LOOP Worldwide Adapter Plug will give you power wherever you go! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 9, 2018 at 9:00 am.

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Control your smart home with FIBARO’s The Button

The problem with having your home automated is you’ll need to have your smartphone or tablet in hand to turn on the lights or control a device using an app.  With The Button from FIBARO, you’ll be able to control smart home functions without opening an app.  The Button connects via Bluetooth to the smart device, so there’s no need for a bridge or gateway, and can control any HomeKit-compatible or Z-Wave-compatible device in your home.

Each HomeKit button can be programmed with up to three functions by using a single tap, a double tap, or a tap-and-hold, while the Z-Wave version can be programmed with six functions (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 taps, or tap-and-hold).    The buttons can sit on a tabletop or can be adhered to a vertical surface.  The Button is powered by a battery, which is included with purchase.

The HomeKit Button is available in black, white, or red for $59.99 each.  The Z-Wave Button is $49.99, and is available in black, white, red, brown, green, blue, yellow, or orange for $49.99 each.  They can be purchased at Amazon.

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Control your smart home with FIBARO’s The Button originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 9, 2018 at 8:00 am.

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