I recently started a new job, and one of the “perks” was getting a new laptop. And, as luck would have it, I received a new 13” MacBook Pro with TouchBar. This model also comes with four Thunderbolt/USB Type-C ports. All of my other MacBook Pros were non-USB Type-C and had lots of different ports on the side (USB A, HDMI, DisplayPort, SD, etc.). So this was a new tech adventure for me as much of my other “connected” devices were of the older type connection. So how was I going to embrace USB Type-C (which is an amazing technology, by the way) but also be able to connect some of my older devices like USB drives, Mics, Monitors, SD cards, and the like? Well, I got my hands on the HyperDrive PRO 8-in-2 hub for USB-C, and it’s a perfect solution (that looks great too)! (*Disclosure below.)
Read MoreReview: BenQ InstaShow Enables Quick Wireless Presentation & Video (Even at Home)
If you work in an office, you have probably gone to a conference room to watch or give a presentation. And, as part of the presentation process, you probably had to figure out how to connect to the projector or the big screen monitor or watch someone struggle to do so. You need to find the right port, the right cable, and figure out which Input you need to use. Wouldn’t it be nice to just attach an HDMI (or USB Type-C) dongle to your laptop and have it magically appear on the screen with no cables snaking across the table? And also not have to install any type of software for the connection to be enabled? And just as easily, hand the dongle off to the next presenter and have them connected in around 6 seconds? Well, you can with the BenQ InstaShow. And guess what? You can use this technology just as easily at home with a variety of devices. (*Disclosure below.)
Read MoreReview: Creative Nova Portable Bluetooth Smart Speaker & Lamp Does It All
If you have anything “smart” in your smart home, you probably have a speaker that is hooked into Amazon, Google, or Apple. And, I’m going to guess that the speaker is probably plugged into a wall somewhere for power and uses WiFi to enable its smart connectivity. Well, it’s time to cut those power cords (not literally, of course) and get a smart speaker that is portable and battery-powered, and that does a whole lot more. If that is interesting to you, you must take a look at the Creative Nova. It encapsulates many of the features we all want and “need” in a smart speaker, but then keeps going in terms of features and functionality. (*Disclosure below.)
Read More