Gadgets / Consumer Tech
In-depth reviews, breaking product releases, emerging trends in smartphones, wearables, smart home devices and everyday consumer hardware.
717 articles
Raspberry Pi Locks Down RAM Upgrades on New Boards
Raspberry Pi has introduced a hardware lock preventing users from swapping RAM chips on new models, sparking backlash from the maker community.
What Your Smart TV Does When You Think It Is Off
A Smart TV performs background tasks like updates and voice listening even when off. Standby mode offers convenience but adds a small ongoing energy cost. Understanding these trade-offs helps users decide how to manage their TV's power use.
Distraction-Free Reading: Why More Users Are Switching to E Ink Tablets Over iPads
E Ink tablets like reMarkable and Kindle Scribe offer focused reading and note-taking without the distractions of an iPad. Here's why they're gaining popularity.
AMD's Next-GPUs Could Bring Neural Rendering to PS6 and Next Xbox
AMD's next-gen graphics hardware could bring neural rendering to consoles like PS6 and next Xbox, matching Nvidia's DLSS 5 technology. This would expand AI-powered graphics to millions of gamers.
Sonos App Setup Process Reflects Broader Smart Home Dependency
Setting up Sonos speakers requires the app, a trend that mirrors smart home shifts. Users must follow prompts for Wi-Fi, Trueplay, and streaming services.
Small Tweaks to Speaker Setup Rival Costly Surround Sound Upgrades
Simple adjustments to speaker placement, room acoustics and audio calibration can dramatically improve home theater sound without new hardware.
Satirical Data Center Plushie Brings Server Noise Home
A plushie called Bezzy, created with music producer Big Data, plays real data center sounds. The satirical toy highlights the omnipresence of digital infrastructure.
Apple Watch Series 12 Reviews Reveal Battery Life Breakthrough and Health Sensor Gains
The Apple Watch Series 12 earns praise for two-day battery life and upgraded health sensors, with reviewers highlighting improved Siri and the same starting price.
How Monitor USB Hubs Are Reshaping the Modern Desktop
Modern monitors with built-in USB hubs offer a simple way to reduce cable clutter and keep peripherals close at hand. Here is how this feature changes daily computing.
Apple CarPlay Defaults to First iPhone: How to Manage Multiple Devices
CarPlay automatically connects to the first paired iPhone, creating challenges for shared vehicles. Users must manually switch devices through the CarPlay interface.
Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: Capable Hardware Undermined by Pricing
The Galaxy S26 FE delivers a bright display and solid performance, but reviewers agree its higher price than the S25 FE makes it a tough sell against strong alternatives.
Noise Cancelling Headphones Come With Hidden Trade-Offs Users Need to Know
Active noise cancellation offers quiet but introduces battery drain, pressure sensation and higher costs. Understanding these trade-offs helps users choose the right headphones for their daily needs.
Smart Locks Go Mainstream as Home Security Embraces Connected Access
Smart locks are shifting from niche gadget to standard home security upgrade, driven by falling prices and enhanced features. Industry experts now recommend them for wider adoption.
The Rise of Aftermarket Car Audio: Retrofitting Older Vehicles With Modern Tech
Older cars can gain modern connectivity through aftermarket upgrades. The trend grows as new car prices rise and drivers seek Bluetooth and smartphone integration.
Projectors and Screens: The Changing Home Theater Equation
High-lumen projectors challenge the need for a dedicated screen. Ambient light, room design, and contrast goals still drive choices for home theaters.
Huawei Watch D3 Brings Clinical Blood Pressure Tracking to Your Wrist
Huawei Watch D3 offers CE-certified cuff-based blood pressure readings in a slimmer smartwatch design, including 24-hour ABPM monitoring.
Soundboks Rider Pushes Portable Speaker Volume to Extreme Levels
The Soundboks Rider delivers extreme volume in a rugged chassis. However, its power raises questions about practicality for everyday users.
Scientists Unlock Method to Revive Aging EV Batteries
Researchers discover a chemical process to remove electrode buildup, extending EV battery life and reducing waste.
PlayStation 2's MechaCon Security Chip Finally Cracked After 26 Years
A developer known as Someone dumped the PS2's MechaCon chip, unlocking new modding capabilities for the classic console.