Gadgets / Consumer Tech
In-depth reviews, breaking product releases, emerging trends in smartphones, wearables, smart home devices and everyday consumer hardware.
179 articles
Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 Blends Heating and Cooling in One Bladeless Unit
Dyson's Hot+Cool HF1 combines heating and cooling in a single bladeless appliance, targeting consumers who want year-round comfort with less clutter and quieter operation.
Multi-Primary Color Displays Promise a Leap in Screen Accuracy
Multi-Primary Color Display technology uses extra primaries beyond RGB to expand color gamut. It could transform professional monitors and HDR screens but faces adoption hurdles.
Apple Targets October Launch for OLED iPad Mini in Broader Lineup Refresh
Apple plans to release an OLED iPad mini this October, part of a multiyear iPad overhaul. A new standard iPad, OLED iPad Air and iPad Pro are expected in the following years.
Screen Time Strains Eyes: Monitor Settings That Ease Fatigue
Monitor settings like blue light filters and brightness matching can relieve digital eye strain. Simple adjustments free for all users.
Roku Remote Tags: The Trademark Reason Behind the Purple Labels
Roku remotes feature small purple tags for trademark protection. Removing them may void the warranty or violate terms.
Samsung Custom Modes Give Users New Control Over Phone Settings
Samsung's Custom Modes on Android allow users to create automated settings for work, sleep, and more. This feature enhances personalization and productivity.
Lenovo Laptop Debuts Inkjet-Printed OLED in a Bid to Lower Screen Prices
Lenovo's R9000P is the first laptop to use IJP OLED technology, which could lower screen costs. The technique uses inkjet printing to deposit organic materials, reducing waste and expense.
Smart Thermostats Reshape Home Energy Management as Adoption Surges
Smart thermostats are moving beyond convenience to become central to home energy efficiency, with adoption driven by utility rebates and climate goals.
Repeated Issues Plague Arlo Security Camera Users
Arlo camera owners report ongoing problems with connectivity, battery life and motion detection. The issues raise questions about reliability amid growing smart home adoption.
Woman's Discovery of Hidden Rental Car Camera Ignites Privacy Concerns
A woman found an AI camera recording her in an Audi rental car. The incident raises questions about consent and surveillance in temporary vehicles.
Low-Earth Orbit Navigation Satellites Challenge GPS Dominance
Xona Space Systems plans a 258-satellite LEO constellation delivering signals 100 times stronger than GPS, enabling indoor and jam-resistant positioning by 2027.
The Engineering Reason Behind Red Optical Mouse Lights
Red LEDs dominate optical mice due to cost, sensor compatibility and manufacturing efficiency. Laser and blue alternatives exist but remain niche.
OnePlus Exits US and Europe Smartphone Markets as Competition Intensifies
Phone maker OnePlus will stop releasing new phones in the US and Europe, retreating from key markets. The move may precede a broader downsizing including potential exit from India by 2027.
OpenAI Steps Into Gadgets With a Light-Up Keyboard for AI Agent Oversight
OpenAI releases the Codex Micro, a $230 mini-keyboard that provides color-coded status updates for Codex AI agents. The limited-run device, built with Work Louder, lets users monitor agent activity at a glance.
What the Blue Line on Google Maps Actually Means
Google Maps uses a blue line to show routes, but recent redesigns added new meanings. Here is what each shade signifies.
Boston Dynamics Aims to Ease Delivery Driver Load With New Spot Accessory
Boston Dynamics tests a conveyor belt accessory for its Spot robot to autonomously unload packages from delivery trucks, targeting last-meter delivery challenges and driver fatigue.
Robot Vacuums Add Surprising Abilities That Reshape Home Cleaning
Robot vacuums now include AI object avoidance, self-emptying bins and security monitoring. These upgrades are redefining expectations for home appliances and raising new consumer questions.
Longer Charging Cables: Myth vs. Science on Phone Charging Speed
Does a longer cable slow your phone charging? The physics says yes but the real-world impact is minimal for typical lengths.
Retro Camera Captures Jupiter in Hobbyist Astrophotography Feat
A hobbyist used a Game Boy Camera and a telescope to photograph Jupiter, sharing a tutorial online. The project highlights the enduring appeal of repurposing retro hardware.