Flying cars and AI assistants are a dime a dozen – but have you ever seen a router so adorable it would be the highlight of your interior decor??
The SmartAir Minions Routers were so oddly located in a corner of the Westgate area of the CES 2024 exhibition that it was easy to miss. As chance would have it, I headed to the Westgate area to look for another company, only to suddenly notice these minions through the corner of my eye sitting on a counter. Given the fact that CES is predominantly a tech show, I obviously wondered why these plush-looking toys were on display. A few seconds in it dawned on me – these lifelike characters from the Despicable Me franchise were, in fact, dual and triple-band WiFi 6E routers capable of multi-gigabit internet. The added bonus? They look more adorable and presentable than your existing WiFi router ever could.
Designer: Davolink
Click Here to Buy Now
The routers come in two models, designed to resemble the two key characters in the Minion-verse, the short and adorable Bob, and the tall and klutzy Kevin. The choice of these two characters play well into the routers’ features too – Bob, being smaller, offers dual-band WiFi connectivity, while the taller Kevin (and that tiny antenna-esque toupee of his) offer triple-band internet, giving you 2.4Ghz, 5Ghz, and even 6Ghz.
Together, both the routers provide a brilliant blend between wide coverage and high speeds, enabling everything from 8K streaming to even gaming. The routers eliminate dead zones too, ensuring every corner of your home has WiFi connectivity with a mesh feature to help maximize coverage.
The highlight, however, is the fact that they are a stunning replica of easily some of the most memorable and iconic characters of animated cinema in the past decade. I’ve always advocated for functional products ditching their industrial aesthetic (air purifiers and smart speakers don’t need to look horrendously industrial in today’s day and age), and it seems like it’s time that WiFi routers took that same approach. Bob and Kevin are designed to be the kind of routers that hide in plain sight. They’re adorable enough to be kept on your shelf or tabletop without feeling the need to conceal them behind curtains or other objects, and that’s really what makes them such a standout product. After all, wouldn’t you rather have a router that looks as cute as these little nitwits than something like the boring box you’re currently connected to as you read this article? My only worry is kids trying to play with these and accidentally bringing your entire home network down… but that’s a problem for another day!
Flying cars and AI assistants are a dime a dozen – but have you ever seen a router so adorable it would be the highlight of your interior decor??
The SmartAir Minions Routers were so oddly located in a corner of the Westgate area of the CES 2024 exhibition that it was easy to miss. As chance would have it, I headed to the Westgate area to look for another company, only to suddenly notice these minions through the corner of my eye sitting on a counter. Given the fact that CES is predominantly a tech show, I obviously wondered why these plush-looking toys were on display. A few seconds in it dawned on me – these lifelike characters from the Despicable Me franchise were, in fact, dual and triple-band WiFi 6E routers capable of multi-gigabit internet. The added bonus? They look more adorable and presentable than your existing WiFi router ever could.
Designer: Davolink
Click Here to Buy Now
The routers come in two models, designed to resemble the two key characters in the Minion-verse, the short and adorable Bob, and the tall and klutzy Kevin. The choice of these two characters play well into the routers’ features too – Bob, being smaller, offers dual-band WiFi connectivity, while the taller Kevin (and that tiny antenna-esque toupee of his) offer triple-band internet, giving you 2.4Ghz, 5Ghz, and even 6Ghz.
Together, both the routers provide a brilliant blend between wide coverage and high speeds, enabling everything from 8K streaming to even gaming. The routers eliminate dead zones too, ensuring every corner of your home has WiFi connectivity with a mesh feature to help maximize coverage.
The highlight, however, is the fact that they are a stunning replica of easily some of the most memorable and iconic characters of animated cinema in the past decade. I’ve always advocated for functional products ditching their industrial aesthetic (air purifiers and smart speakers don’t need to look horrendously industrial in today’s day and age), and it seems like it’s time that WiFi routers took that same approach. Bob and Kevin are designed to be the kind of routers that hide in plain sight. They’re adorable enough to be kept on your shelf or tabletop without feeling the need to conceal them behind curtains or other objects, and that’s really what makes them such a standout product. After all, wouldn’t you rather have a router that looks as cute as these little nitwits than something like the boring box you’re currently connected to as you read this article? My only worry is kids trying to play with these and accidentally bringing your entire home network down… but that’s a problem for another day!
Feng shui has become popular in the Western world during the 20th century and beyond. Sometimes though, just like with a lot of things in our world, it has been commodified too much to the point that people are just buying things as an easier way to practice this ancient system. A new project is a satirical criticism of this commodification, although it has actually created products that will bring feng shui objects into your home and bring a “smart” aspect to it.
Designer: Yoojin Chung
Capturing Qi is a project that brings three feng-shui objects into the digital age by making them smart devices that you can control through an app to bring energy into your home. You get a crystal ball, a wind chime, and a water fountain were designed to look like scientific equipment and was inspired by the 18th century vacuum chambers. The crystal ball and water fountain have castor stands while the wind chime is a hanging piece.
All three have Arduino circuit boards that turns them into smart devices. You connect them to the smartphone app through Bluetooth and you use the ap to “activate” and release the qi into yuor home. So while the project is a commentary on the commercialism of feng shui, it can still be used to release the energy that you want especially now that it’s a new year.
Any of these three items would also be good conversation starters if you have them in your home. You either look like a mad scientist or someone with cool art pieces at home. Either way, if you believe in feng shui, you can have these smart versions in your home for all the good juju you need.
Announced just ahead of CES, UGREEN bringing sheer power to its charging brick lineup with the Nexode Pro series. Touting a power capacity of anywhere between 65W to a whopping 160W, these chargers leverage the latest GaN semiconductor technology to ensure a compact design, incredible thermal management, and the ability to charge multiple devices concurrently at their highest possible PD (power delivery) requirements. The Nexode Pro 160W, which immediately caught our eye, is smaller than your average MacBook charging brick, but has 4 outputs for charging multiple devices, with the ability to route up to 140W of power to a single USB-C port. It’s quite literally one plug to rule them all…
Designer: UGREEN
Click Here to Buy Now
The Nexode Pro 160W is perfect for your workplace or even for travel. It touts the ability to fast-charge your laptop, tablet, phone, and any other gear from your TWS earbuds to a gaming console, simultaneously. At the heart of the charger lies UGREEN’s ‘GaNInfinity’ technology, which expertly manages energy requirements of multiple devices with a whopping 95% conversion rate – which means 95% of the energy from the outlet makes its way to your devices, with only 5% being lost to heat… a feat that most silicon-based semiconductors can’t compete with. The result is a deceptively tiny charging brick, unlike the massive clunky ones seen with laptops and smartphone fast-chargers.
To put numbers into actual words, UGREEN boasts of being able to charge a MacBook from 0% to 50% in just 27 minutes (or 87% with just an hour of charging). When paired with a 140W MagSafe cable, the charger outputs 140W to a single device, letting you fast-charge your laptop at blitzing speeds. Once you plug multiple devices in, the charger manages power delivery to them intuitively, splitting its overall 160W output between its multiple ports. The uppermost USB-C port has the highest output of 140W (when used alone), while the ports below are 100W, 30W, and a USB-A that outputs 22W respectively.
The Nexode Pro 160W is 21% smaller than than other charging bricks of similar power capacity.
All that power means a whole lot of responsibility too, which UGREEN takes in the form of multiple checks and balances to ensure device safety. Its 11-stage safety protocol involves smart thermal management, along with a fire-resistant enclosure, and multiple layers of projection from overvoltage, overcurrent, overheating, surges, short circuits, etc. The Nexode Pro 160W weighs a paltry 310 grams (10.9 ounces), and is compatible with the power requirements of over 1000 devices, from laptops to phones, tablets, wearables, drones, cameras, and consoles. It starts at $119 on Amazon, but as a launch offer, you can grab a 15% discount by claiming a coupon during checkout.
Since its foundation in 1976, Apple has always been at the peak of modern innovation! And let’s take a moment to appreciate all the awesome products and inspiration Apple has provided us with. The groundbreaking tech giant never fails to surprise us, we always find ourselves biting our nails and squirming with curiosity, whenever Apple announces a new product launch! Needless to say, we all have our favorite Apple products, and although they are pretty amazing as is, it’s always fun to amp them up further with some cool and innovative accessories. And, we’ve curated a collection of unique and super functional accessories for your valuable devices – from a slim AirTag alternative to a new and improved iPhone 15 cases!
1. Apple MagSafe Grip Stand
Inspired by the Japanese art of paper folding, the Apple MagSafe Grip Stand can fold flat without the trouble of assembly and disassembly.
Why is it noteworthy?
The stand is pretty thin and sized like a card, so it swiftly attaches to your phone, allowing you to slip your phone into your pocket without the stress of snagging it.
What we like
Can handle a load of 500g
Allows you to hold the phone securely with comfort and confidence
What we dislike
Colors options are a bit limited, could do with more variety
2. Mujjo’s Full Leather Wallet Case
Mujjo designed the Full Leather Wallet Case for the iPhone 15 Pro, and it is clad in premium European leather that is tanned in the Netherlands and made using a remarkable grain, with choices between black, brown, and blue finishes.
Why is it noteworthy?
The camera and lenses are protected via a machined metal rim, while the polycarbonate inner structure with microfiber interior linings protects your phone.
What we like
Features a slot stitched into the back that holds two cards
What we dislike
You’ll need to remove the cards if you want to attach Apple’s MagSafe charger to the back
3. CASA Hub Stand Pro
The CASA Hub Stand Pro was designed with the MacBook in mind, and it can raise any laptop up to 29cm in height, offering you a super ergonomic position that wont really strain your neck. You can also set it lower, in case you don’t have an external keyboard. Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $129 (23% off with Coupon Code “23OFFYANKO”).
Why is it noteworthy?
The stand is equipped with a high-precision load-bearing mechanism that can accommodate weights of up to 3.5kg, and can handle heavier gaming laptops as well, and not just a MacBook Pro.
What we like
Fits personal view angles perfectly
The base can rotate at 360 degrees
What we dislike
Offers only one aluminum finish and no aesthetic customisation to match other laptop styles.
4. Slimca HERE
The Slimca HERE is designed to be the same size as a credit card. It functions as an excellent alternative to Apple’s own tracking device.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Slimca HERE features a razor-thin form that slides easily into wallets and is equipped with global tracking, a built-in speaker, and a left-behind reminder. The Slimca HERE works over Apple’s Find My network.
What we like
Super thin, making it easy to slip into wallets
What we dislike
It isn’t being sold yet, so we’re not sure how the final product will turn out to be
5. TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate
The TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate, short for “Super Shockproof” is a protective case that was created to let your iPhone’s design completely shine through while protecting it.
Why is it noteworthy?
The TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate offers seamless protection when you drop your phone from any height or angle. The case is built from a high-durability TPU material that absorbs 98% of the shock.
What we like
Provides aesthetic value and protective functionality as well
What we dislike
With a very minimal line of products, there is no option for anyone who wants a more vibrant design.
6. The PodChain
The PodChain functions as a strap to which you can attach your AirPods or AirPods Pro so you can hang them around your neck or a hook until it’s time to utilize or charge them.
Why is it noteworthy?
What is super interesting about the PodChain is that these buds don’t just dangle off your shoulders – it has a One-Click Patented Lock, that you can use to secure your AirPods in place.
What we like
An excellent option for those who continuously lose their AirPods
What we like
Not the most aesthetically pleasing design to have around your neck
7. C1 MagFit Case
Created the Spigen, the C1 MagFit case for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are inspired by the iMac G3’s vibrant translucent colors series.
Why is it noteworthy?
It provides your iPhone with a retro makeover, while also providing protection from cracks, scratches, and bumps. It also continues to enable your phone’s MagSafe features.
What we like
Comes in three super fun colors
Features clicky tactile buttons on the sides that are super fun and interactive to use
What we dislike
It is a retro design, so it won’t appeal to everyone, only those who prefer old-school styles
8. Hermès Apple Watch Bands
Hermès has launched a variety of roughly 20 leather band variants for the newly released Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2.
Why is it noteworthy?
The brand also released a variety of other designs, colors, and materials, which provide a quick and cool update for your wrist. This collection includes four new styles that have been inspired by luxurious textiles.
What we like
Includes four new styles inspired by luxurious textiles
What we like
Has a steep price tag as expected, so not a viable option for everyone
9. HiRise 3 Deluxe
Designed by Twelve South, the HiRise 3 Deluxe is MagSafe certified, and it can charge your iPhone up to 15W. The accessory features a unique and adjustable MagSafe pad, which allows for a 35-degree angle shift to support optimal viewing.
Why is it noteworthy?
The charger favors a front-to-back arrangement, unlike the typical side-by-side layout, which doesn’t occupy too much space on your workdesk and nightstand.
What we like
Occupies three of your Apple devices without occupying too much space
What we dislike
Only available in back, would be better to have more color options to choose from
10. Belkin BoostCharge Accessories
The BoostCharge Convertible Qi2 Wireless Pad to Stand and the other dubbed BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad with Qi2 are Belkin’s latest accessories for the iPhone 15.
Why is it noteworthy?
The BoostCharge Convertible Qi2 Wireless Pad to Stand is for people who want a wireless charging pad that can flip upwards so that they can easily watch content. The BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad with Qi2 is for gadget lovers who frequently charge their array of devices in tandem.
What we like
A dual thermal protection system prevents any chance of overheating
Features a non-slip material to keep the device in place
It’s a known fact that Apple tolerates nothing less than 100% perfection. That’s why their product renders look absolutely pristine, their website has a wonderful flow, their keynotes are flawless, and their stores look immaculate. Walk into any flagship Apple store and take a look at the devices on display and you’ll probably notice how great they look too. Unless it’s a new iPhone that’s being handled by a hundred people, most devices are spotless, and have screens that look so clean you could eat food off of them. After all, who would want to buy a MacBook or an iPad with fingerprint smudges and dust on the screen, am I right?? Well, a YouTuber figured out how Apple manages to keep all their display units this sparkling and the reason is an inconspicuous little orange bottle that can often be seen on the countertop at some Apple stores. Apple won’t sell this bottle to you, but it’s well known that people working at the Genius Bar use this somewhat secret cleaning solvent to keep all their devices looking absolutely shimmeringly brand new. Apple won’t sell it to you, but you can now buy your own.
Click Here to Buy Now
Known as WHOOSH!, this screen-cleaning liquid is incredibly effective at getting out smudges, dust, and any sort of grime off electronic screens. Whether it’s a ‘soft’ screen like the one on laptops and monitors, or a harder oleophobic screen like the one on your phone or tablet, WHOOSH! gets it right off, also sanitizing your screen in the process (after all you don’t know what sort of germs end up on people’s fingertips, right?!)
The spray is odorless and non-toxic and is accompanied by a microfiber cloth that does a great job of getting your screens looking as good as new, making it perfect for use at a grand electronics store or even at home. Heck, it works with spectacles too!
Since the batteries that power our phones and laptops haven’t evolved considerably over the years, engineers and designers are instead pushing the boundaries of charging technologies, promising insane speeds without compromising users’ safety. After all, the less time you need to charge a device, the more you can get up and going again. With so many charges making the same promises these days, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of options. Ugreen, however, has a new duo of chargers that utilize the latest GaNFast advancements to deliver speedy and safe charging, while also wrapping them in a package that looks downright adorable on your desk as well.
Designer: Neo Zhu
Click Here to Buy Now: 65W for $40$49.99 (20% off with Coupon Code “RG65W”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
GaN or gallium nitride is the new darling of the consumer electronics industry. It offers greater power efficiency compared to the typical silicon used in charging circuitry. Its application in GaNFast technology, specifically, brings better power conversion, less energy loss, and lower heat generation, resulting in faster charging, regardless of the device that’s connected. Ugreen’s new Nexode RG GaN chargers put this already impressive technology into a form that will delight buyers and even enhance the user experience.
The Ugreen Nexode RG 30W, as the name suggests, offers 30 watts of power that’s enough to revive a dead iPhone 14 Pro Max and bring it up to 51% in just 30 minutes. The Ugreen Nexode RG 65W takes that capability to the next level with a 60-watt output, topping off that same iPhone up to 60% in half an hour. It even has enough power to take a MacBook Pro from zero to 70% in just an hour. The Nexode RG 65W even has 2 USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port to really maximize the power. Both chargers support the most popular charging protocols used today, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility.
What makes the Nexode RG GaN chargers really different is their distinctive designs, taking the form of a small, cute, and playful little robot. It doesn’t take more space than a typical charging brick, because you remove the robot’s feet to reveal the actual plugs inside. The design isn’t just for show either. The Nexode RG GaN features an LED mini-smart screen that shows the charging status at a glance without even having to look at each connected device. The robot’s face tells it all, showing a reassuring smile when your device is full.
The Ugreen Nexode RG GaN chargers aren’t just about speed, though. Their advanced Thermal Guard systems monitor temperatures in real-time to prevent overheating, overcharging, and overcurrent. The use of GaNFast technology also helps build a better and greener tomorrow, thanks to reducing energy waste from power loss as well as reducing overall CO2 production. With the Ugreen Nexode RG 30W and 65W GaN chargers, you are getting the best charging technology the industry has to offer in a cute design that is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Click Here to Buy Now: 65W for $40$49.99 (20% off with Coupon Code “RG65W”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
We have come to rely on many electronic devices these days, from the laptops we use for work to the smartphones that connect us with others and keep us entertained. Many people would even own multiple devices of different kinds, each coming with its own charger. Even those that don’t ship with a power brick in the box for the sake of reducing e-waste would still require the right kind of charger to maximize charging speed and time. This is definitely not an ideal situation to be in, both for consumers and the planet. Fortunately, charging technologies are growing rapidly, as demonstrated by the world’s first 5-port 300W desktop charger that has more than enough ports and power to juice up multiple devices simultaneously, even if that includes one power-hungry laptop.
Designer: Neo Zhu
Click Here to Buy Now: $199.99$269.99 ($70 off with coupon code “UG300W”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
The batteries inside our phones, tablets, and laptops haven’t evolved as fast as the devices themselves, so the best strategy we can make is to shorten the charging time as much as possible. This has led to a variety of charging technologies, standards, and hardware, which translates to a growing pile of chargers that, in turn, require plenty of wall sockets or juggling which devices need to get charged first. Multi-port chargers do exist, but they are often just glorified last-gen USB hubs that can’t keep up with the need for power, speed, and safety.
That’s what sets the new Ugreen Nexode 300W desktop charger apart, delivering this trifecta in a premium-looking package. Using Navitas Semiconductor’s GaNFast technology, the Ugreen Nexode 300W delivers ultra-fast charging speeds for as many as five devices, even all at the same time, without bulking up the charger or generating dangerous amounts of heat. It supports a variety of fast-charging technologies, including PowerDelivery (PD) 3.1, Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) 3.0, Super Charge Protocol (SCP), and more.
For Laptops
For Phones/Tablets
For Any Other Device
What’s even more impressive, however, is the number and variety of devices it can charge through its four USB-C ports and one USB-A port. One of those ports even has a maximum output of 140W, enough to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro, a Lenovo ThinkPad, or a Dell XPS or Inspiron laptop. With a 300W capacity, you can keep all those ports occupied at the same time, ensuring that your phone, tablet, gaming handhelds, and other devices are always topped up when you need them. And because of its power efficiency and speed, the desktop charger also helps reduce carbon emissions by up to 30%.
The Ugreen Nexode 300W isn’t just built for speed and power, though. It was also designed with safety and style in mind. The built-in smart Thermal Guard monitors temperature changes in real time, protecting your devices from overheating, overcharging, and excessive current. Its fire-resistant and fire-retardant PVC shell not only gives it impressive durability, it also lends an eye-catching minimalist design that belies the power it holds inside. Free your desk from a mess of power bricks and do more with less with the Ugreen Nexode 300W 5-port hyper-fast GaN desktop charger.
Click Here to Buy Now: $199.99$269.99 ($70 off with coupon code “UG300W”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
Since its foundation in 1976, Apple has always been at the peak of modern innovation! And let’s take a moment to appreciate all the awesome products and inspiration Apple has provided us with. The groundbreaking tech giant never fails to surprise us, we always find ourselves biting our nails and squirming with curiosity, whenever Apple announces a new product launch! Needless to say, we all have our favorite Apple products, and although they are pretty amazing as is, it’s always fun to amp them up further with some cool and innovative accessories. And, we’ve curated a collection of unique and super functional accessories for your valuable devices – from an ergonomic accessory for your Magic Mouse to a triple docking station by Satechi for your MacBook.
1. The MouseBase
Called the MouseBase, this cute-looking add-on is designed to be the ultimate accessory to your Magic Mouse (v2). It fits your Magic Mouse (v2) perfectly, providing it with a more ergonomic + comfortable design. It allows you to plug the Magic Mouse without any moving parts, adhesives, or screws, offering you a comfier right-handed drip, that lets you intuitively grab and maneuver the mouse.
2. The UPRO Ostand Case
The UPRO Ostand case is an innovative accessory designed to provide your iPhone’s MagSafe feature with a bunch of uber-cool upgrades, such as the ability to make your phone stand, hang, or stay securely in your hands as you click a selfie or scroll through Instagram. The UPRO Ostand case won the iF Design Award but gives your everyday iPhone cases a refreshing upgrade.
3. The G-CUBE
The G-CUBE features a magnetic snap-own design that provides your AirPods with a refreshing new makeover in mere seconds. The G-CUBE both protects and highlights your AirPods Pro Case, owing to the luminous ring around it that glows in the dark, and a lanyard hole that lets you hang your AirPods case around your neck as if it were a fashion accessory.
4. AirTag Carabiners
Ditch your boring old standard metal carabiners, and get yourself these innovative AirTag Carabiners. Each piece is precision-made from metal, meticulously handcrafted to offer you superior durability – they aren’t just products of the melted metal casing. Manufacturing conditions must be taken into consideration, hence slight variations may occur, ensuring that each piece is a unique edition.
5. Y24 Apple Watch Cases
Designed by Y24, this collection of Apple Watch cases is a price-friendly collection inspired by the lifestyle of Tokyo, and truly this echoes in the cool vibe each of them possesses. Y24’s cases are specially designed to uplift the young generation’s style for a unique and innovative identity without compromising on or sacrificing Apple’s originality.
6. Satechi Triple 4K Docking Station
Called the Triple 4K Docking Station, this accessory by Satechi is designed to expand the limitations of the Mac. Launched in time for the 15-inch MacBook Air, the accessory is great for the M1 which is limited to a single monitor, or even the M2 which can be extended to two screens. The dock helps to bypass the inherent limitations of the MacBook.
7. NASA-themed Apple Watch Straps
MobyFox’s Apple Watch straps feature seven different NASA-approved designs to choose from, along with 20+ watch faces to match. The straps are crafted from sweat and UV-resistant silicone, and feature a large range of graphical elements surrounding NASA’s rebranding over the ages and the iconic meatball and worm logo styles. The strap-loop also has the year 1953 printed on it, which marks the day NASA was founded.
8. The Apple Watch Pillbox
The Apple Watch Pillbox is designed as a simple silicone strap and sleeve that can be swiftly attached to your Apple Watch. It offers a tiny pill container right underneath the watch body, allowing you to easily store and carry your medications with you wherever you go. Since you will be almost always wearing your watch, the chances of you forgetting to carry and consume your meds are significantly lowered!
9. Ice Speed Freezemat Magsafe Wireless Charger
The “Ice Speed Freezemat MagSafe Wireless Charger” is an innovative Apple accessory that utilizes a really interesting method to dissipate heat, keeping the innards at optimum temperature during gaming or fast charging rituals. Made from aviation-grade cooling material, the Freezemat is equipped with a unique cooling mechanism inspired by the way the human body sweats to dissipate heat.
10. The Air Case 2
The Air Case 2 is the second iteration of the Air Case by the Running Guy. The unique-looking Air Case 2 features a bloated textured pattern, that really complements Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 quite well. The case is designed to not only be a fashion statement but also to provide all-around protection to your valuable smartphone.
