We all have vastly different reasons both for wanting headphones and for the headphones we choose. Some folks love the isolating power of over ear headphones while others find them smothering. There are people that prefer the subtle discretion of earbuds while others can’t stand having some thing in our ear canals. All that is to say that purchasing headphones can be a very personal experience that’s different for everyone. The best you can do is choose a reputable brand and try to find a pair that have good consumer reviews to. In this review I’m testing out the Sony WH1000XM4 over ear wireless noise cancelling headphones. I’ll take a look at the style and comfort, what you get with your purchase, how long the battery lasts and what it’s like to use for all kinds of listening experiences from music to podcasts, phone calls and zooms. I’ll wrap things up with the pros and cons and make an assessment about whether or not I think I can recommend these for you.

Many reviewers and customers have praised Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM over-ear headphones series for their exceptional comfort and listening experience and top-tier noise-cancelling options. Sony’s latest noise-cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5, continues that premium streak, but has a different design than its predecessors. The glaring omission of that redesign is its inability to fold, making the included case much bigger as well.

Fortunately, many retailers continue to sell the older Sony WH-1000XM4 which has many of the same features the current model has. But is buying a pair of $300 premium headphones launched back in 2020 a good idea given the sea of newer options available? Let’s see how they hold up in 2024.

What’s in the Box?

When you unblock the package the first thing you’ll likely notice is the hard shell travel case. I’m actually not generally a huge fan of these cases as they tend to be far bulkier than they need to be for simple safe transport. In this case, the case is actually extremely thin and very slim and flat on both sides making it quite unusually easy to slide into a bag or backpack. The back of the carrying case also has an elastic mesh pocket for storing any other small items you wish to add.

I’m very impressed. When you flip the case open you’ll see the headphones, a very short 6-inch USB-C power cord, an auxiliary cable, and a dual-prong airplane aux travel adapter. A felted divider keeps the cords and accessories in one place while also protecting the headphones, another very nice touch.

Design & Comfort

The WH-1000XM4 should be one of the most comfortable headphones $350 can buy thanks to the ample memory foam cushioning on the earcups and headband. (In fact, the WH-1000XM4 model has thicker cushioning than its successor making the former the better pick if you are after comfort and long listening sessions. The newer WH-1000XM5 feels a lot lighter though.)

The earcups feel very well made but they are on the thinner side. I don’t have particularly big ears or ones that stick out, but the inside of the earcup do come quite close to my ears. Those with bigger ears might find these uncomfortable or annoying. The covering on the cups is quite soft and feels feels neither leathery nor plastic. Just very comfortable. (I get the impression these would last years before you notice any signs of wear and once you do, you can easily replace the earcups with a third-party set like the popular stylish earcups Wicked Cushions make.)

When wearing the headphones, you can adjust the headband for a nice snug fit that doesn’t add serious pressure to your head and ears, in fact if anything I’d say these feel on the looser side when it comes to head compression. While I wasn’t worried about them falling off, sudden had movement did seem to allow them to move around just a little bit. Just bear in mind that Sony designed the WH-1000XM4 for casual listening so they’re not really meant to go jogging or exercising since the design also offers no waterproofing.

My preference is for a lighter and less constricting feeling over your headphone that doesn’t sound hollow or plasticky. I’d say this set checks all the boxes.

Using the Sony WH-1000XM4

Setup & pairing

There’s only two buttons on the left earcup, making things easy to operate and keep track of the controls.
Holding the power button on the left cup for a couple of seconds switches on the headphones and will immediately enter pairing mode if you are doing this for the first time, as mine did. Pairing the headphones with your device is pretty simple (just open your phone’s Bluetooth menu and tap to connect)

You can use the Sony Headphones Connect app to configure the headphones. From the app, you can adjust the noise cancellation levels, assign a function to the physical “custom” button next to the power button like toggling noise cancellation or triggering your voice assistant, and even pair the headphones to a second device.

Gestures

The right earcup’s surface is touch sensitive allowing you to perform quick actions through tap and swipe gestures. If the app or site supports it, double tapping the right earcup plays or pauses the active media. An alternate way to pause playback is to simply remove the headphones since it has wear-detection and putting the headphones back on resumes the playback.

When your connected device has an incoming call, the double-tap gesture can also answer it as well as end the call during a conversation.

Swiping up or down adjusts the volume while swiping left or right triggers “next” or “previous” actions. These gestures will work when connected to Android or iOS devices as well as Windows systems.

Noise Cancellation

The comfortable earcups provide some decent passive noise isolation, but you’ll get the best experience by activating the noise cancellation feature.
Sony’s QN1 noise cancelling processor and five built-in mics do a fantastic job in cancelling out background noise. The noise cancellation is also adjustable. If you go into the app and look for the sound tab, when you turn on ambient sound control it will give you a slider bar so you can adjust how much exterior noise gets through. You can also let the Sense Engine do its work by setting an appropriate level based on your current activity and the level of sound around you. I always test out noise cancellation both with some audio playing and without anything playing at all. Testing noise cancellation in quieter or environments is actually a bigger challenge since the headphones don’t hear anything to try to cancel out so it’s possible to get more noise bleed in advertently. I can say that these performed quite well in all my tests.

The noise cancellation quality is excellent and really allows you to create an excellent cone of silence.

Sound quality

I tried listening to a variety of music and audio with the WH-1000XM4 including spa sounds (soothing and non-distracting while working), pop, rock, podcasts and more.
The sound quality on these is outstanding, as it should be. Supremely well balanced, it’s easy to pick out multiple layers of sound. The bass, if all settings are left to factory, is a wee, wee bit on the flat side, which can easily be adjusted with the equalizer settings (turn on Bass Boost or Excited). The overall experience is full, head-filling and super enjoyable and it will be tough to find fault with the audio.

Connect to two devices at once

A feature I love and headphones is the ability to connect to two devices at once. While you have to toggle the setting on inside the Sony headphones connect app, it allows you to maintain connections to two devices at once meaning you can connect to your laptop and your phone and easily between them without needing to stop and reconnect. This does take a couple of steps to get set up and the app will walk you through it.

Battery life & charging

Having long battery life in quality headphones is really important. Nobody wants to have to charge them up every day or so, because of course you can count on them running out of juice when you need them the most; like when children are screaming at the airport and you just need to chill out. The WH-1000XM4 provide about 30 hours of battery life with a full charge. With noise cancellation off, you can expect about 38 hours of runtime. I’m happy to say these also boast fast charging where 10 minutes of charge can give you up to five hours of listening time. All in all this is outstanding.

Auto Power off

The headphones have an auto power off setting so that whenever you remove the headphones they will turn off after a short period of time. This is very handy for the forgetful types and those who want to prioritize saving needless battery waste.

Other Features

Like many noise-cancelling headphones models in its class, the WH-1000XM4 offers an ambient sound mode which utilizes the built-in microphones to transmit ambient noises to the earcups so you can hear your surroundings while enjoying your music. You may also temporarily activate this feature at will by covering the left earcup with your hand. This will trigger Quick Attention Mode which activates ambient sound while also lowering the volume.

Being a high-end Sony audio product, the WH-1000XM4 supports the high-resolution LDAC audio codec. LDAC improves the audio quality over Bluetooth connections which could come in handy if you have a large FLAC collection or enjoy lossless streaming services like Deezer or Tidal.

If your mobile device has built-in NFC, you can also initiate a quick Bluetooth pairing by placing the smartphone on the left earcup. Just look for the NFC logo.

My Places

These headphones allow you to adjust how they operate based on where you are. Registering locations you frequent with the Sony headphones connect app automatically switches your headphones settings when you were at each location. For example you may be able to hear your family speaking while listening to music at home, or block out colleagues using noise cancelling at your busy open-concept workplace. This feature will automatically adapt your settings based on your current location. Sony does take note that certain areas like subways and tunnels where GPS reception is weak won’t allow you to use this feature properly.

360 Reality Audio

Another key feature of these headphones is 360 reality audio which seems very similar to spatial audio in that it allows you to seemingly hear sound from more places around your head as opposed to simply straight into the ear canal. At the moment this feature is only compatible with a handful of music apps, none of which I subscribed to. As a result I was unable to test out this feature.

Speak to Chat

The speak to chat feature is another cool offering. If you turn this feature on the headphones will listen for your voice and then automatically kill noise cancelling so you can hear what’s happening around you and speak to others. The sound quality is rather strange in that it sounds truly like your voice in the room, I’ll be at with headphones still on your head. It actually sounds very true to life and doesn’t distort voices or add a buzz or hum. The only downside I noticed when testing this is there is a very slight delay when you first begin speaking before the ambient mode kicks in. And it takes quite a while after I finish speaking (about 20 seconds) before the noise cancellation comes back on. Not really a problem but just something to be aware of.

Equalizer

The Sony headphones connect app also offers you equalization settings so you can adjust the headphones to your liking. You can choose from some Sony built presets or make your own custom custom adjustments.

Overall Review: Sony WH-1000XM4

Despite the product’s age, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is still a compelling buy and will easily outperform other current midrange products in the audio quality and noise cancellation departments.
When it comes to the pros, the sound quality is great, the folding design and slim hard case make it really easy to travel with. The headphones are comfortable and light, and easy to wear for long listening sessions. The battery life is fantastic, the accessories it comes with are useful.

When it comes to the downsides it’s hard to find a lot to crack on here. I could complain about the rather plain design, but for some people that’s actually a pro. I think the biggest issue is going to be the price, and that it continues to stay high despite the launch of a newer iteration.

Many retailers still sell the WH-1000XM4 at over $300 which in my opinion puts it too close to the newer Sony WH-1000XM5. The Sony WH-1000XM5 offers better noise cancellation and audio performance, which is worthwhile if you don’t mind the bulkier case and slightly reduced comfort and flexibility. But if you can find a pair at under $300, grab the deal and you’ll have some great mileage with the pair.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Hands-on review: Sony WH1000XM4 over-ear headphones appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Breaking into the crowded wireless earbuds marketplace is quite difficult when big brands like Bose, Jabra, Apple and JBL fill it with pretty awesome products. If you don’t have the brand power, the most practical thing to do is to offer something with comparable features, but at a way lower price. That’s just one of the strategies that EarFun is using to take on the competition with the EarFun AirPro 3. Selling for about $80 USD

EarFun AirPro 2 vs EarFun AirPro 3

EarFun still sells the AirPro 3’s predecessor for $10 less. I recommend skipping that because the AirPro 3 is the first in the AirPro lineup to feature a Qualcomm QCC3071 SoC (system-on-chip) with aptX adaptive Audio Tech. Qualcomm designed this chip specifically for wireless earbud products and EarFun claims to be the first to implement it. The chip features a special Bluetooth technology called LE Audio which dramatically reduces the latency to allow higher quality streams to be shared with devices that support LE Audio.

Watch my full hands-on review of EarFun AirPro 3 earbuds

The EarFun AirPro 3 also boasts a longer 9-hour battery life with noise cancelling disabled or 7 hours with the feature turned on. This is impressive as EarFun didn’t add any extra weight on the earbuds themselves. A fully charged charging case can also boost the total runtime to 45 hours and it features fast charging as well.

What’s in the Box?

What you’ll find in every EarFun AirPro 3 box is mostly what you’d expect – the wireless earbuds and its charging case along with a user manual and a USB-C charging cable. Despite its sub-$100 price tag, the AirPro 3 impressively includes four sizes of ear tips (one on the buds; three in the box) rather than the usual trio found in many mainstream competitors so you are more likely to fit a pair that perfectly fits in your ears.

The design of the EarFun AirPro 3 is a bit uninspiring, though it does evoke Apple AirPods so you can sort of see where EarFun is going with its product name. However, it is nice to see EarFun adding IPX5 Sweat and Water Resistance to the earbuds which is something you don’t typically see on a pair of earbuds at this price range.

Fit & feel

Pulling the EarFun AirPro 3 out of the charging case I’m struck by how substantial they feel; they feel solid and sleek, not chap in any way. I put them in my ears and was immediately rewarded with a snug but very comfortable fit.

Using EarFun AirPro 3

Pairing the EarFun AirPro 3 with your device is very straightforward as the QCC3071 chip supports Google Fast Pair. The earbuds support multi-device connectivity and EarFun offers a companion mobile app called EarFun Audio which lets you customize equalizer settings, apply firmware updates, and access guides.

EarFun equipped each earbud with touch sensitive controls which can activate several functions depending on the tapping pattern you follow. A single tap on the left or right earbud decreases or increases the volume respectively. Triple tapping that particular earbud will go to the previous or next track. To answer or end a call, you can double tap either earbud. For rejecting calls, you must tap and hold either earbud for 2 seconds. If you don’t have any incoming calls, this tap and hold gesture will either activate the voice assistant or toggle the noise cancelling depending on the earbud you perform it on.

The tap controls are mostly responsive although I will say remembering the tap sequence will take some doing and now and then I had to repeat my commands.

Key Features

Active Noise Cancelling

Like the previous model, EarFun’s QuietSmart 2.0 Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation is baked into the AirPro 3. The technology is nowhere near as sophisticated as what you’d get with a pair of flagship Apple or Sony earbuds but the noise reductions are actually pretty good for focusing. There are three settings; Ambient Mode, Normal and Noise Cancelling. Ambient lets you hear pretty much everythign around you and worked well; I could even hear a low fan running with Ambient mode on. Normal mutes the lower sounds in particular, and noise cancellation gives you a pretty solid cone of silence. It’s not perfect and there are better noise cancelling earbuds out there but for the price, I’m actually rather impressed.

Audio specs

EarFun clearly wanted to minimize the bottlenecks of the Qualcomm QCC3071 chip so it outfitted the earbuds with custom 11mm Wool Composite drivers which boast decent high-frequency range, increased clarity, and boomy bass. Audiophiles will still notice the audio quality differences when pitted against flagship products from premium brands, but for its aggressive pricing, this is as good as $80 gets.

The QCC3071 comes with aptX Voice technology too so the AirPro 3 matches that with an enhanced 6-mic array. Combined with Qualcomm’s cVc or Clear Voice Capture technology, the AirPro 3 is well-equipped to suppress noise and transmit clearer vocals.

Connect to other devices

It’s possible to get connected to two different Bluetooth devices simultaneously. There’s a bit of a back-and-forth process the first time but after that it should pair to both simultaneously as it did for me. Essentially, you’ll pair with your first device and stay connected then put the earbuds back in there charging case and hold the button for three seconds to put it back into pairing mode. Then you’ll search on your second device is Bluetooth menu to find the earbuds. Connect on the second device then return to the first device and re-initiate the connection.

Doing this allowed me to switch seamlessly between my MacBook Pro and my iPhone 15 easily.

Sound Quality

I have to say I wasn’t expecting much in the way of sound quality but the EarFun AirPro 3 sound pretty good. There is a noticeable if slight lean towards the treble side so they can sound thin on some music, particularly if the volume is low, but this is subtle. The bass first hit me as raspier, not resonant, but I picked through a bunch more bass-heavy tracks (Headsprung by LL Cool J, C-Walk by Kurupt, West Coast from M1) and found a lot more boom and bounce.

I listened to a variety of sound from podcasts and music to zoom calls and the phone and found the sound was great all across the board.

Battery Life

When it comes to battery life you are actually getting quite a bit; you’ll have 9 hours of battery life in the buds with a further 36 hours (4 more charges) in the charging case totalling 45 hours.

• Recharging time runs from one hour up to 3.5:
• 1 hour(for earbuds);
• 2hours(for charging case via USB-C);
• 3.5 hours(for charging case via wireless charger)

Overall Review: EarFun AirPro 3

Overall I was surprised and impressed by the EarFun AirPro 3. This is a solid earbuds package with great sound quality and useful features. They are easy to set up, easy to pair even to multiple devices simultaneously. They sound great across all audio spectrums and the three levels of noise cancellation is a nice bonus that performs admirably.

For $80 USD, the EarFun AirPro 3 is quite the steal if you can forgive the generic design and finicky touch controls. If you don’t have super high expectations with noise cancellation, you should be happy with the overall listening experience and battery life the AirPro 3 provides and with its previous track record of other EarFun devices, it looks like this budget brand is here to stay!

In short, I can definitely recommend EarFun AirPro 3 if you’re tired of being on the big tech hamster wheel.

Also read:

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review
2. Jabra Elite 3 truly wireless headphones review
3. The Best Wireless Earbuds Buying Guide: how to choose, plus our top recommendations

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post EarFun AirPro 3 earbuds hands-on review appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

As someone who spends a lot of time using PCs and laptops, all my stocking stuffer recommendations under $50 are accessories rather than standalone products. However, given how versatile these products are, I’m confident these products will serve as great gifts to anyone. I’ve personally used all products in this list and continue to use most of them today so feel free to ask any questions about these picks if you wish to learn more.

A teeny tiny speaker

We love the look of the EWA Travel A106 Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker. Smaller than a lime this is the ultimate emergency backup speaker you can truly bring anywhere… and it it gets lost, well, you’re only out $26! Weighing just 6 ounces, the A106 mini speaker is conveniently small but boasts clear sound with impressive bass and room-filling loudness. Use it for streaming music or internet radio services such as Pandora and Spotify from your Smartphone, iPhone, or via other audio device with Bluetooth.

Tech Touch Gloves

Ordinary winter gloves aren’t just going to cut it when it comes to using a touchscreen. Only specially designed gloves like the TRENDOUX Winter Gloves use special conductive material adding a great deal of convenience when the environment gets all chilly! They also make for great driving gloves!

Portable Apple Watch Charger

I know nobody should own any microUSB devices in 2023, but this unique portable Apple Watch Keychain charger is too unique to not consider! The tiny, built-in 1000mAh battery is just enough to add about 2 hours extra airtime to any Apple Watch making it a perfect add-on gift to that Apple Watch gift you bought on sale!

Cords and Cables

Cords and cables make for great equalizers when adding to the value of a stocking full of goodies! Native Union is a good brand to start with because they make all sorts of cables in assorted colors and materials to mix and match with other accessories in the stocking. A personal favorite is the weighted cable that stays put on any desk or bedside table, and its extra long length means you can still use it in bed. From Lightning cables to USB-C, these cords are reliable and come from a trustworthy brand. Be sure to check out this cords and cables guide for some other recommended brands!

Bluetooth Trackers

There are a lot of folks out there that simply think Bluetooth trackers aren’t worth the price, especially when you factor in battery replacements. Buying one as a gift is one thoughtful way of saying that valuables and personal possessions do matter and could be real saviors when the unexpected happens! Air Tags are the obvious Bluetooth tracker choice for Apple fans because of their tight integration with iPads and iPhones. For those Android loyalists, consider getting a Tile Pro as that tracker has a replaceable battery.

Tile Tracker

Have you ever heard any stories of folks saying they won’t ever need a Tile tracker, but suddenly wished they purchased one after an unfortunate incident of losing a valuable? The thought of losing luggage sure gives me the chills so be that cool Santa and gift a Tile tracker or two to allow proper tracking of these valuables no matter what mobile device they use.

Check out Erin’s full hands-on with all the Tile trackers so you can better decide which one to gift.

Anozer Tablet Stand

Putting a tablet such as an iPad on a stand is something you must experience to appreciate the benefits. The stand props up your tablet and lifts it up so you see its screen directly without tilting your neck down. This improves your posture while reading content while saving you the extra burden of holding your tablet.

Why does this matter to me? Because all my tablets have casings which add a bit of weight. This also adds an extra use case as well – using the tablet as a computer when you pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard. Yes, using a laptop might be more ideal depending on your use case, but based on my experience with both setups, I always found a tablet + keyboard combo more pleasant to work with on surfaces with minimal space.

I’ve tried a few tablet stands including one from ORICO and another from BAVIN. At least so far, the Anozer Tablet Stand is my favorite. The entire stand is made of aluminum and the back of the holder has four rubber pads to keep the tablet in place. The rigid construction is durable enough for the stand to hold an iPad Pro 12.9 with a case and unlike plastic stands, the Anozer Tablet Stand keeps the tablet steady and secure. Then when you are done using it, you can simply fold it and stuff it away in a bag.

Logitech K380 travel keyboard

Full disclosure, the keyboard I personally use is an Anne Pro 2 simply because it’s a mechanical keyboard and after going mechanical, I simply couldn’t go back! Unfortunately, that keyboard is more than $50 so my next personal pick is the Logitech K380 which I tried for a bit before I gifted it.

Priced at around $39 or lower, the Logitech K380 is a fantastic budget Bluetooth keyboard and a terrific companion to my tablet stand recommendation. The keyboard is small enough to fit in a bag and it can pair with just about any Bluetooth-enabled device from an iPad to a Raspberry Pi!

Even if the person you are gifting to lacks a tablet, he or she can still pair the keyboard to a phone. Considering how large phones are nowadays, using a keyboard to send a long text message or perhaps an email is a nice convenience. With the keyboard paired, the phone won’t bring up the onscreen keyboard leaving you with more screen real-estate for composing lengthier messages.

The neat little feature of this keyboard is its ability to pair up to three devices making this a versatile peripheral as well. The Logitech K380 is a travel-friendly keyboard which you can pair with your phone, tablet, or laptop, but you can use it at home too as you can pair it with any desktop computer you have with Bluetooth or even your Smart TV! The K380 comes in various colors as well.

Logitech G502 Mouse

If you have a friend or loved one who spends a lot of time on a computer or laptop, gifting a Logitech G502 is simply a no-brainer. Don’t be fooled by the fact that this peripheral is a gaming mouse either because you can use it as a productivity mouse as well. I’ve used a lot of mice from different brands and the Logitech G502 offers the best feature set for a wired mouse while it’s on sale for a sweet slice of the regular $70 price.

For me, the best features of the G502 are its software and 11 reprogrammable buttons. The Logitech G HUB software allows you to remap any of the buttons to various things such as a keyboard shortcut or a macro. For instance, I configured the two side buttons to change virtual desktops while the thumb button takes screenshots. Logitech’s non-gaming mice have fewer buttons, cost more, and offer less software customization which is why I picked this over other office mice.

Ringke Folding Stand 2

The Ringke Folding Stand is a nice, inexpensive stocking stuffer for that person who loves to travel light with a laptop. Unlike most laptop stands, the Ringke Folding Stand 2 has a flat form factor and feels like a piece of rubberized cardboard. Straight from its name, you can fold the stand into a tent-like shape which you can place the laptop on giving it an angle which makes typing comfortable while lifting it slightly for better heat dissipation. Although the stand feels light, it can hold heavier 16-inch laptops just fine. Not only does the stand offer two angles but you can flip it over flat and use it as a mouse pad too!

8bitdo Zero 2 game controller

Gifting to your kids or younger relatives? I wholeheartedly recommend the 8bitdo Zero 2! This tiny little stocking stuffer is a fully functional game controller that is surprisingly versatile. PCs, laptops, Smart TVs, tablets, phones, and modern game consoles all have built-in Bluetooth and each have their own gaming libraries. As long as the game supports controllers, you can play it  game with an 8bitdo Zero 2. Just keep it mind that it won’t work with a PlayStation.

What surprised me most with the 8bitdo Zero 2 is how usable it is despite its small size. It works best with retro titles and 2-D platformers as it lacks trigger buttons and analog sticks. While I don’t recommend this controller for prolonged gaming, it’s impossible to complain especially when getting one as a gift simply because of how cute and tiny this controller is!

Got a cool stocking stuffer find under $50 you’d like to share? Post your pick in comments below.

Also Read:

1. Best Tech Stocking Stuffers for Christmas 2023

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Tech Stocking Stuffers for under $50 appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Earbuds

The coolest thing about buying a pair of earbuds is how they easily fit into the smallest stockings! Just make sure they don’t have any holes because some of these stuffers are north of $300! For your special someone with an iPhone or a MacBook, the Apple AirPods Pro is a terrific gift. Yes, they are a bit pricey at $329 CAD but we have the one-year hands-on experience and they remain highly competitive against other top picks!

Bowers & Wilkins PI7 or PI5

For an alternative that plays nicely with devices across the spectrum, the Bowers & Wilkins P17 impressed us with great audio quality, noise cancellation, and build quality. But before you pony up $399 USD / $499 CAD, make sure the lucky person doesn’t mind frequent charging as the earbuds’ battery life is on the average end.

Amazon Echo Buds

If you need to stretch your budget to buy earbuds for several people, consider the Amazon Echo Buds! Priced at around $154 CAD for the USB-C wired charging version, you get plenty of nifty features and decent audio quality even when not taking the Amazon-specific features into account.

Jabra Elite 4 and Skullcandy Push Active Earbuds

The Skullcandy Push Active Earbuds is a great budget sports earbuds recommendation because of its rather low $79 USD / $99 CAD price. Audio quality is nothing to write home about but fitness buffs will appreciate the long battery life, sweat resistance, and secure fit thanks to those built-in hooks.

If audio performance matters more than the other features, you only have to spend a bit more for the Jabra Elite 4 earbuds. These earbuds don’t last as long as the Skullcandy earbuds on a single charge, but you get Active Noise Canceling! The newer Jabra Elite 8 Active are also Erin’s newest best pick so those are a great gift buy too.

Echo Dot with Clock

You can’t go wrong with a cute-looking ball that shows the time and plays whatever beats you tell it to! Not to mention these Echo Dot smart speakers are priced frequently below their $59 retail price and you can get it bundled with add-ons in case you want to treat yourself or another loved one as well!

For the Music/Podcast Addicts: Bose Soundlink Micro and JBL Go 3

All modern tiny speakers sound fuller and better than the speakers built into your phones making these Bluetooth-powered treats great stocking stuffers for your audio-loving friends and relatives. How much of an audio quality boost you want depends on how much you’re willing to spend!

The JBL Go 3 and Bose Soundlink Micro are our top ultraportable speaker picks for 2023. For the budget-conscious, we recommend the JBL Go 3 as it offers decent audio quality for a sub-$50 USD / $60 CAD price. It also feels rugged and comes in various fun colors that even younger folks will appreciate.

The Bose Soundlink Micro costs more than double the price of a JBL Go 3 for a reason – the audio quality is much better while still sporting a small form factor. The design and micro-USB port does make the speaker look a bit dated, but I’d wager anyone wouldn’t mind when he or she pumps up the speaker volume to 70% (Hint: it gets loud!). Remember, this is a Bose product!

Wyze Cam v3 Mini

A security camera might not be the most glamorous stocking stuffer but the Wyze Cam can serve as a handy first line defense in a tiny 2-inch package! In case he or she already has an outdoor camera, they can easily use it as a baby or pet monitor or just a simple indoor surveillance piece that can capture motion. Plenty of versatility here!

Abode Smart Light Bulb 

The key to a good stocking stuffer light bulb is something that is inexpensive, easy to set up, and has that fun color-changing property—and one that you don’t need to buy an extra hub or bridge for. The Abode smart light bulb ticks all those boxes as it doesn’t require a hub for setting up and offers a simple app interface. The fact that it works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant is a nice extra!

Amazon Smart Plug

Unsure what type of smart home accessory to buy for your friend or relative? Go for a smart plug like the Amazon Smart Plug and let that person decide! The package doesn’t scream Christmas gift as loudly as others, but it is one of the most useful low-cost accessories for turning any AC-powered device into a smart one where the power state can be controlled by a simple Alexa voice command. We also love the GE Cync Smart Plug too. Watch for a full review coming soon.

Earbuds Cleaning Kits

Cleaning kits are inexpensive products that can add significant life to any gadget so why not include them with your main gift? All it takes is just $7 to add a capable earbuds cleaner kit complete with a brush, sponge, and metal tip for getting stubborn dust and dirt out of those tight crevices. If you’re feeling more generous, you may include the Kickstarter-funded PurePort Multi-Tool kit which does a great job cleaning earbuds and can clean both cables and connection ports alike as well!

Bluetooth Trackers

There are a lot of folks out there that simply think Bluetooth trackers aren’t worth the price, especially when you factor in battery replacements. Buying one as a gift is one thoughtful way of saying that valuables and personal possessions do matter and could be real saviors when the unexpected happens! Air Tags are the obvious Bluetooth tracker choice for Apple fans because of their tight integration with iPads and iPhones. For those Android loyalists, consider getting a Tile Pro as that tracker has a replaceable battery.

SD or microSD Cards

Whatever gift you want to stuff in a stocking, you want to make sure that person can use it to the fullest right out of the box! SD and microSD cards are prime examples and they are so cheap to the point that there is no excuse for adding even the smallest capacity! Go for the SanDisk, Samsung, or KOOTION brands and head to this buying guide if you don’t know which type to get.

For the Budding Content Creators

Have a friend or loved one frequently uploading content in TikTok, YouTube, or maybe livestreaming on Twitch? Stuff up the stocking with a few small, but meaningful upgrades!

Joby GorillaPod Mobile Rig

The Joby GorillaPod Mobile Rig is a handy and inexpensive upgrade for entry-level vloggers. It may not offer any professional features like image stabilization, but the lightweight, flexible tripod legs allow you to use it as a monopod for self-videos as well as a standard tripod for filming all sorts of other scenes. The clamp keeps the mobile phone securely in place on the tripod while the arms allow you to mount other accessories such as a light or microphone. If getting the kit is a bit much for your stocking budget, any of the various components can be purchased individually including the small Beamo light, and even the wireless shotgun microphone.

Check out Erin’s Joby vlogging gear review for other Joby accessories you can add to your stocking.

Tula Portable Microphone & Recorder

If you want to be that extra cool Santa this year, a Tula Microphone is one potential ticket. Stuffing this retro-looking bad boy in a stocking will add a whopping $349 CAD to its value. When it comes to media, most consumers prefer better audio fidelity over video quality, making this microphone a great and highly noticeable upgrade over a smartphone or laptop’s built-in mic. What’s even cooler is the 8 GB worth of flash memory built right into the mic allowing you to use it as a standalone voice recorder. Perfect for podcasting on the go! If this one seems a bit out of stocking budget range, the microphone makes a fantastic gift also. Erin picked one up this year and it’s become her new go to microphone.

For the Globetrotters

When the occasion calls for gifting to frequent flyers, stocking stuffer gifts are the right approach because small gifts don’t add any extra bulk to their travel gear! Here’s some easy recommendations.

For the Wellness Buff

usmile Y10 PRO

I personally find electric toothbrushes to be a bit of an unnecessary luxury and that’s probably because I tried using a cheap one and came away a bit unimpressed. As they always say, you get what you pay for!

But after I read Erin’s review of the usmile Y10 PRO and how she gave it a perfect 5-star rating with no cons of any kind, I can’t help but be curious with this sonic electric toothbrush. But as a gadget-lover myself, I can see from a mile away just how cool this electric toothbrush is. It has a built-in screen that keeps track of your brushing, has an IPX8 waterproof rating so you can use it in a shower, and it can even measure how hard or soft you brush. Everyone needs to brush their teeth making this a great $100 USD gift for anyone!

Ninja Blast

A blender in a stocking? No, this isn’t a joke! I can totally confirm that you can fit this compact, portable blender in a perhaps larger stocking because I have one myself. What surprised me with this product when unboxing is the blender’s cylindrical packaging, so it won’t really give that large stocking a bulging look.

As for the blender itself, it’s a joy to use as I can just charge it with my phone charger for a couple of hours and then fool around with some blends here and there. I use it for making smooth protein shakes, cucumber shakes, and strawberry almond milkshakes. It had no trouble crushing ice as long as you add water and I found it really easy to clean. Ninja did a terrific job designing this blender and Erin agrees; read here review!

Have any gadgets you plan on stuffing in your stockings? Do comment and share away!

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Best Tech Stocking Stuffers for Christmas 2023 appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

With more than a billion active iPhone users, Apple has done a solid job in making their iconic smartphone both easy to use and simple to set up. Even without assistance from someone at the Genius Bar, you should be able to get started in using your new iPhone by following the onscreen instructions.

But as popular as the iPhone is, we sometimes forget just how much of a premium we are paying for the iOS experience. Maybe you are paying for the iPhone through your carrier contract or maybe you are just used to paying for flagship phones, but it doesn’t change the fact that you are paying quite a bit even for the “budget” iPhone SE. Knowing your iPhone’s premium nature is key to maximizing the amount you paid for the device and there’s no better way to discovering these features than giving your iPhone a real setup treatment. So, let’s take a walk through setting up an iPhone TechGadgets style!

First, a little disclaimer; the instructions laid out here cover iOS 17.1 which is the latest non-beta version at the time of writing. Future iOS updates may slightly or significantly alter the setup procedure. If you have an older version that doesn’t come with iOS 17.1 out of the box and you are having trouble with any of the steps here, feel free to leave a comment and we’ll gladly help you out!

Initial Setup Tips

Switching on a brand-new iPhone for the first time or performing a factory reset on one will greet you with a basic setup wizard asking you to choose the language and your country. After making your choices, iOS will let you set the overall size of the text and homescreen options. Choose any of the options before tapping “Continue” to get a small glimpse of what they’ll look like.

“Quick Start” Feature

If you own another iPhone or iPad running iOS 11 or later and it’s connected to the Internet, Apple’s Quick Start may detect the device and offer to transfer its data. Quick Start is a useful feature if you want to use your device right away without going through the hassle of searching for the apps and games you use on other iOS devices. But if you are very selective on what goes into your iPhone and want to save as much storage space as possible, I recommend skipping this feature.

Getting to Know Your Apple ID

To unlock your iPhone’s full potential, you must login to your Apple ID. Your Apple ID provides you with 5 GB of free cloud storage space via Apple iCloud which is useful for backing up settings, documents, and photos. It also gives you access to the iOS App Store where you may download free apps or purchase paid ones. You may create an Apple ID right from the iPhone but if you own a Mac or another device, you might have already made one. Try using the email you used to register for the Apple ID account for logging in. If you forgot your password, you can always reset it.

Updating Your iOS Version

As you swipe around your home screen, you might notice a notification indicator on your Settings icon. This could indicate a new iOS update which you should install immediately before tinkering with the rest of your phone to ensure the update installs on a clean operating system. Go to the “Settings” icon, tap “General,” and go to “Software Update” to check the details on the update if any. Tap “Download and Install” to download the update. This process could take time depending on the speed of your Internet connection and could cause your iPhone to reboot.

Once your iPhone reboots and finishes installing the update, go back to “General” in the “Settings” app and scroll down to “Transfer or Reset iPhone.” Tap “Reset” and select “Reset All Settings” to restore all iOS settings to their defaults. You can skip this step if you like, but I recommend doing this after an update as it tends to fix any bugs and other anomalies a new update could introduce.

Choosing Your Charging Adapter

The iPhone 12 and newer models only come with a USB-C charging cable and not a charging adapter thus forcing you to use an existing adapter one if you have. Since you’ll be regularly charging your iPhone, I recommend getting Apple’s own 20W USB-C Power Adapter which you can buy on Amazon or Apple’s official website.

This power adapter can charge your iPhone faster than lower wattage USB-C chargers. If paying $20 for an official Apple accessory isn’t appealing to you, you can pick up some cheaper third-party alternatives. When searching online, use “MFi” or “Made for iPhone” in your search query to ensure you avoid buying incompatible chargers.

Configuring Your iPhone’s Charging Behavior

Since the very first iPhone, replacing its iPhone battery was never a DIY affair for the average consumer. Therefore, battery care is very important as professional battery replacement can be costly. Fortunately, Apple does offer an option to extend the overall lifespan of the battery and it’s enabled by default.

However, this option can affect your iPhone’s overall battery life between charges. If you wish to maximize your battery life, go to “Settings” followed by “Battery” and then “Battery Health & Charging.” You can then switch the “Optimized Battery Charging” option from there. If you are using an iPhone 15 or plan on using newer devices, you also have the option to prevent chargers from charging beyond 80%.

Pairing With Your Apple AirPods Pro

One of the advantages of having both an iPhone and a pair of Apple AirPods Pro wireless earbuds is its quick and simple pairing process. Just switch on your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings from the “Settings” app and open your AirPods charging case with the AirPods inside. Position the AirPods case near your device and follow the rest of the instructions and you’re all set!

Taking these extra steps in setting up your iPhone is a good way to avoid some of the occasional bugs that may occur in iOS. Clear that hurdle and you can finally start opening the App Store and start installing your favorite mobile apps!

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to set up an iPhone appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Buying a laptop for under $400 likely means you’ll be in a world of pain once you witness the compromises you’ll get for that low price. However, if we’re talking about Chromebooks, you could get some mileage if Google’s lightweight operating system fits your specific use cases. Even a basic machine like the Acer Chromebook 314 laptop can get things done as long as you don’t push it too hard. Knowing this Chromebook’s boundaries requires a closer look at the operating system powering this machine – Chrome OS.

What is Chrome OS?

Chrome OS is a full operating system built around Google’s Chrome browser. If you can imagine loading up Windows on your laptop and the only “desktop application” you can run is Google Chrome, you can get a good sense of the Chrome OS life. Don’t let that fool you into thinking that Chrome OS is severely limited because its usefulness outside of Web browsing rides on two major areas – the Chrome extensions and the Web apps.

The Chrome Web Store is more than 12 years old and third-party developers continue to make useful apps that can enhance your Web browsing experience. Average Windows users might not need to explore the Chrome Web Store so much because of the vast third-party app ecosystem, but Chrome OS will force you to dig deeper, and you’ll eventually find some neat little productivity-enhancing gems.

Web apps are booming more than ever before as developers try to make their apps and services accessible to as many devices as possible from smartphones to desktops. By keeping all the code on the server side, updating apps and services become much easier and users don’t have to download large installers. This is why Chromebooks exist with storage capacities as low as 64 GB. One good and reliable Web app counts as one extra thing a Chromebook can do.

Extra Features

The Chrome browser experience doesn’t exactly define the boundaries of Chrome OS as the operating system has a few extra features. Like Windows, Chrome OS has a customizable taskbar where you can pin shortcuts to your favorite Web apps as well as a launcher where you can access more apps including some of the lightweight built-in system apps. You can also personalize the OS such as changing your wallpaper or adding extra users with Google accounts.

Chrome OS also has access to the Play Store allowing you to install Android apps just in case you might have a favorite mobile app you wish to use on your laptop. Don’t get too excited with this one especially if you’re looking to buy a budget Chromebook because Android apps are a bit more demanding in system resources and compatibility varies since most apps are designed for touch. Not all devices running Chrome OS including the Acer Chromebook 314 have a touchscreen.

Why Choose a Chromebook Over a Windows Laptop?

Windows laptops can hit a pretty attractive sub-$300 price point as well and obviously have the benefit of being able to run all sorts of apps and games even without an Internet connection. However, Windows is a juggernaut of an operating system filled with both legacy and modern code which some feel just isn’t efficient enough for basic hardware to run smoothly.

On paper, the Acer Chromebook 314 should meet the Windows 11 minimum requirements with its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of LPDDR4 RAM but even out of the box, Windows 11 will consume at least 3 GB of RAM and try to put stress on the SSD if it needs extra virtual memory. Windows Update and Defender can be pretty taxing for the Intel N4020 too with its slow dual cores.
I believe nobody should be using a dual-core 4 GB Windows laptop in 2023 as apps and operating systems continue to evolve and become more demanding. Chromebooks, on the other hand, run far more efficiently due to the basic nature of Chrome OS. More of that 4 GB RAM can be allocated for additional browser tabs and fewer background tasks mean prolonged battery life compared to a Windows system with the same specs. Chrome OS also requires less tinkering to get the performance and battery life you need although the Acer Chromebook 314 is a minor exception.

Acer Chromebook 314 – Bare minimum?

The Acer Chromebook 314  laptop is positioned at the very bottom of Acer’s Chromebook lineup as the company also offers other Chromebooks that cost more than double the amount but also boast twice as much RAM and CPU cores. Is having bare minimum performance worth the savings? Knowing your use case is key to appreciating the Acer Chromebook 314’s value.

For starters, you want to avoid using the Play Store feature altogether by disabling the Play Store option in the Chrome OS settings. Even if you don’t plan on installing Android apps, leaving the Google Play Store enabled will run some background tasks necessary for Android apps to function and it will bog down the performance of a dual-core 4 GB Chromebook like the Acer Chromebook 314. Android apps will run if you really insist on installing them, but expect the performance to drop a bit and try to avoid keeping too many browser tabs open especially if they run heavy background tasks.

If you use fewer than ten tabs at a time, you might have some available memory to install some extensions. Feel free to experiment with your favorite extensions and then launch the Task Manager by right-clicking on the title bar and clicking “Task Manager” to see how much memory those extensions are using. Typical extensions use less then 50,000 KB or 50 MB worth of memory but the Acer Chromebook 314 could still suffer from slowdowns if you try to visit heavy websites filled with ads, scripts, and other media.

The Acer Chromebook 314 is also equipped with 64 GB of flash memory. That isn’t a whole lot but I don’t find any issue with it since the laptop also has a pair of USB-C ports and USB-A ports for external drives. One of the USB-C ports also supports Power Delivery for charging as well as DisplayPort in case you wish to add an extra monitor. But even on its own, the Full HD 1080p display is adequate for watching Web videos and the built-in Wi-Fi 5 chip is more than capable of streaming high-quality HD footage.

Overall review: Acer Chromebook 314

I would describe the laptop Acer Chromebook 314 as a decent budget machine that will later serve as a “one task at a time” type of machine years later. We are entering the AI phase of the Web and AI is going to put a lot more strain on our systems as we try to come up with some clever prompts for whatever type of media response we want. Even if AI isn’t for you, websites will continue to evolve and feel more app-like, and push basic hardware to their limits. But if you don’t mind keeping your tabs and background activity to a bare minimum, the Acer Chromebook 314 will always be a superior performer compared to any Windows laptop with similar specs. The double-digit battery life and simplistic Chrome OS experience makes this Chromebook a good choice for students.

Acer Chromebook 314 ranges in price from $230-589CAD and $245+USD.

Of course if you want to see the future of Chromebooks, check out our review of the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34, which doubles pretty much all of the key specs of this machine and add a boatload of artificial intelligence features to boot. Since it’s also very close to this one in price, it might be a more worthy option to upgrade.

Shop the Acer Chromebook 314 on Amazon and Walmart

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Review: Acer Chromebook 314 laptop appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Anyone who remembers the term “boombox” will find the looks of this new speaker familiar. Anker SoundCore’s new Motion X600 speaker is at once both super slick and modern, but with a hint of retro vibes.  Unlike the more popular Sony, Bose, and JBL brands, SoundCore tends to lean more towards affordable products that try to punch above their weight class. But SoundCore has a checkered history depending on the gadget you look at and in my experience I wasn’t wholly impressed with their original Anker SoundCore portable speaker. What has intrigued me though is the new Anker SoundCore Motion X600 breaks the budget tradition and chases the contentious high-fidelity crowd. So in this review I’ll try out the speaker and tell you how it sounds, and about its special spatial audio feature. I’ll round up the pros and cons and let you know if I think this $199 USD / $269 CAD speaker is a sound deal.

What is the Anker SoundCore Motion x600?

Anker is synonymous with premium power banks, but the nearly 12-year company has a few sub-brands under their belt too including the audio-focused SoundCore brand.
The Anker SoundCore Motion X600 is the company’s very first portable speaker to feature spatial audio. It isn’t, however, their first foray into the technology itself as they implemented it to their Anker SoundCore Liberty 4 wireless earbuds last year. Anker’s big pitch with the SoundCore Motion is to offer a speaker that is large and lightweight while having enough oomph to fill a living room with high-fidelity audio. It’s also waterproof.

Watch my video review of SoundCore Motion x600

What’s in the Box?

Anker sticks to the modern connectivity standard by including a 60 cm USB-C to USB-C cable in the package along with the speaker itself. Also included is a quick start guide and safety card.

Look and Feel

The SoundCore Motion comes in three color variants – Polar Gray, Lunar Blue, and Aurora Green. The overall speaker design doesn’t look particularly flashy but if you are seeking that natural chill look, I’d pick the Aurora Green model.
It measures a bit more than 12 inches wide, 7 inches tall including the built-in handle, and 3 inches thick. The 4.2-pound weight of the speaker gives it a bit of heft considering the dimensions, but Anker used a decent amount of metal on the outer frame. Anker also added some subtle grooves underneath the long handle to make it grippier ( though I don’t actually think it does). The handle doesn’t fold down.

Controls and Ports

Seven buttons grace the top of the speaker and while these icons resemble touch-sensitive buttons, they are actually clickable with a nice tick to them when pressed.
Left of the upward-firing speaker containing the SoundCore logo is the Power button which lights up the rest of the buttons when turned on, a Bluetooth pairing button, a spatial audio toggle, and a BassUp button.
The other group of buttons on the opposite end is the usual volume and play/pause controls.
To help attain the SoundCore Motion’s IPX7 waterproof rating, Anker covered the rear USB-C and aux in ports behind a peelable rubber tab.

Audio Features

Spatial audio is the key selling point for the SoundCore Motion X600 and it’s a convenient one for Anker because spatial audio is quite the craze if you are into music streaming services. However, it is important to peel back that marketing layer and examine what SoundCore Motion’s approach to spatial audio is and the answer is a double-edged sword.

Part of the magic involves the Motion X600’s driver configuration as it includes a pair of woofers and tweeters across the front as well as a single full range speaker up top.

Powered by a trio of amps, the total power output stacks up to 50 watts which is 25% more than the JBL Charge 5. This also means that you can enjoy some degree of stereo sound playback without requiring to pair the SoundCore Motion with an identical speaker (although you can if you wish by long pressing the Bluetooth button for at least 2 seconds. Since I only had the one test speaker I did not try it out dual stereo pairing).

Anker has developed a special algorithm which gives any music track you feed it with a spatial audio effect. This is good for folks who have large music collections in their device and want to hear some added depth to the audio experience or sound stage. However, the overall audio quality may not hold up to the experience you get with speakers that come with proprietary technologies like Sony 360 Reality Audio and Dolby Atmos Music which enriches certain tracks featured in some streaming services.

Speaking of proprietary, the SoundCore Motion supports LDAC encoding which when enabled, will improve the wireless audio quality if device supports it and has it enabled too. Modern devices running Android 8 or above should support it natively and Windows users can take advantage of it as well via third-party software. Unfortunately, iPhone and iPad users miss out. You need to install the SoundCore app to your mobile device to use this feature. The app also lets you fine tune the EQ of the speaker.

Sound Quality

I’m glad to say the speaker sounds gorgeous. I put on a chill playlist while I was working one day and the subtleties of the sound were noticeable. I was able to hear a lot of intricacy in the music and quite enjoyed the experience. After work I decided to put on some more upbeat tunes; some Alice Merton (No Roots), and Florence and the Machine led me into some serious beats which gave the Motion X600 a chance to show off its bass. The bass is impressively strong but not buzzy or zappy, just really well balanced. I cranked things up to full boom with a Foo Fighters Essentials playlist, where the sound leaned more towards the snare and electric guitar, and less on the kick. 50 Cent’s In Da Club took over and properly rattled the credenza.

Moving to a few less familiar tracks Ana Tijoux’s 1977 let me tap into the more delicate higher end, with its Latino backbeat.

The speaker gets plenty loud and can be both room filling or more subtle.

How does spatial audio sound?

To test the Spatial Audio capabilities I used Apple Music’s Made for Spatial Audio Playlist.

Featuring specially tuned tracks from Earth Wind and Fire, Demi Lovato, Ciara and the Stones, there was a lot to sample. I can say there does seem to be a noticeable effect; for example you can seem to hear certain sounds or instruments coming from different areas of the speaker; a lead guitar emanating from the top of the speaker with other guitar elements coming from one side or the other. Some tracks like Diddy and The Weeknd’s Another One of Me seemed to have a rolling wave-like effect. It’s not quite the same as wearing headphones, but it does give the sound a more 3D effect that was really nice for listening.
In short, this speaker is a powerful, great sounding piece of work that I think will please both the design-minded and the audiophiles, and the Spatial Audio effects add a lot.

Battery life & charging

SoundCore Motion X600 has a 6,400mAh rechargeable battery. A full charge can gives you 12 hours of music play (with the speaker at about 50% volume). That’s not exactly the greatest battery life for a speaker like this, but it would be enough to get you through a day. A full recharge will take about 6 hours, which is on the long side.

Overall Review: Anker SoundCore Motion X600

Considering both the materials and the speaker array, the SoundCore Motion offers great value for its price.
On the pro side, the sound quality is outstanding across a wide variety of different musical genres. The design of the speaker itself is both portable and some thing you can keep tucked away in a corner of your house. The spatial audio option is a nice extra and it delivers surprisingly well. The speaker is waterproof too which it always good.
Downsides? There’s not a lot to dislike on this. I suppose the biggest crack I could make about it is that the handle doesn’t fold down if you do need to make it more compact. That’s seriously about it.

For that reason I can absolutely recommend the Soundcore Motion X 600 speaker to you if you’re looking for a great-sounding portable speaker.

Shop the SoundCore Motion X600 speaker on Amazon

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Anker SoundCore Motion X600 Speaker Review appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Content creators, and folks who spend a lot of time on video calls know the importance of good audio. Poor quality sound can really impact your final product… so getting a dedicated microphone can really up your game. But dedicated microphones tend to have one significant problem; they are often anything but portable. Meaning if you are a hybrid worker at home and in the office, or you work while traveling, bringing along a microphone might not be possible. That’s where portable microphones come in. A YouTube viewer recently brought my attention to the Tula Mic. With its retro style and premium looks it’s definitely eye candy, but can it perform well as a pricier, bigger-brand microphone? I can tell you right off the bat I had a podcast emergency where the Tula saved the day, but I also discovered it has some hidden features you would definitely not expect.

In my hands-on review I’ll dive deep into some of the more interesting features that help the Tula Mic stand out from other mics that are geared at content creators.

What’s the in the Box?

Inside the box is the Tula Mic itself which is a USB-C connected mic for smartphones and computers.

One of the first things you’ll notice is its flip stand. Flip the stand around and set it on any surface.  A simple twist removes the stand so you can clip in the included Tula Mic stand adapter which lets you mount the Tula mic to an ordinary microphone stand. Be sure not to lose this tiny part, as replacements cost $15 USD.

Also included is a USB-A to USB-C data cable for charging the mic or hooking it up to a computer or phone to turn the Tula mic into an external mic. Tula offers the mic in Black, Cream, Red, and Seaform (Cyan) colors.

You can also upgrade as I did and get a USB-C to USB-C cable, the so-called ‘Dead Cat’ cover for reducing wind noise, a pop filter, or a nylon hardcase for travel—all at nominal extra cost.

Watch my Video Review of Tula Mic

Set up

There’s really no set up required for this microphone and it’s essentially plug and play. I was able to connect it using the USB-C to USB-C cable directly to my MacBook and the MacBook recognized it right away. Tula does request you to upgrade the firmware by connecting the mic and going to its website, then drag-dropping a firmware file onto the mic (which appears as a storage drive in the MacBook), which I did.

Tula Mic Features

For a microphone that lacks any kind of display, I was surprised just how feature packed the microphone is. I’ll go ahead and say it isn’t perfect either because it is also missing some features so the value proposition really depends on how much you care about each individual feature and lack thereof. Let’s go over these bit by bit.

Dedicated USB Microphone

You can use the Tula Mike with almost any device that will support an external microphone including laptops computers and even smartphones. As soon as you plug the Tula mic into your supported device using the included cable, the device will treat it as an external microphone and you don’t have to worry about installing any fancy drivers.

I used the microphone with my Apple MacBook Pro, while travelling to manage voiceover work I had to do from the road. It was incredibly easy to connect, and my MacBook recognized it right away, and gave me no trouble with it.

Once connected, the Tula mic should work with your favorite audio recording apps and DAWs. You can even use the zero latency live monitoring features as your computer should recognize the Tula mic as both an input and output audio device. Because the mic uses a USB-C cable, you can also use it with just about any Android device or any iPad with a USB-C port.

Connecting to iOS and Android devices

Some of you out there maybe wondering, Can I use the Tula with my iPhone, iPad or Android phone or tablet?

The answer is a resounding yes.

Using Tula with Pixel smartphone.

With an iOS device, you do need to use an Apple-approved adapter with an MFI chip such as Apple’s Camera Adapter. iOS devices with a USB-C ports like the iPad Pro don’t require a camera connector.

I don’t have that adapter, but should probably get one, so I was not able to test the microphone out with my iPhone.

With an Android device, use any cable or adapter that will connect to a USB-C.

The Tula will automatically be chosen as your default audio input AND output so monitoring will have to be done via the 3.5mm headphone jack.

I was able to connect the Tula microphone to my Google Pixel phone and found it worked easily and provided much better quality audio. Then I was getting from the phone’s internal microphone.

Sound quality

I have to say I was incredibly impressed by the sound quality from this microphone. Because of its literal pocket size, I wasn’t actually holding out much hope that this would be a good quality microphone. I wanted it mainly to bring along on my business travels, so I always have the ability to record voiceovers and other audio. I have to say I was rather blown away by the quality.

When doing single-person voice overs the mic was easy to use and provided audio that was as good as some other more pro-sumer microphones I own. I also used it to record some audio while working in a studio with a crew just to see how it would sound, and it seem to record multiple users extremely well. I also tried it out with a two person configuration by plugging in a second wired microphone, and I can say that was an awesome hack, and would be ideal for Podcasters on the go.

The Tula Mic also came to my rescue when I was making a podcast appearance on one of my favourite shows, Home Gadget Geeks. For some reason my trusty Rode microphone was not sounding great. After fiddling with it for far too long, I realized the Tula mic was sitting right next to me so I swapped it in. Professional podcast coach and host Jim Collison (who I consider an expert in audio quality) was blown away by the improvement in sound quality. Small thing, but the Tula Mic was also far nicer looking and less obtrusive in the video podcast recording.

I haven’t swapped the Rode back in yet…and may not bother.

Adjusting audio levels (gain)

The feature, I probably liked the least about the Tula Mic is that it can be difficult to judge your audio levels. Because there is simply the one light with green, orange, and red display, you have to use your best guess to make sure you’re not too loud or too quiet. The user manual for the device goes into a bit more detail about how to judge this appropriately, but it might be nice to have even a small actual gain meet her somewhere on the microphone for insurance.

Wireless recorder

Without any accessories whatsoever, the Tula mic can function as a personal recorder. With 8 GB of storage space and a 700 mAh internal battery capable of lasting about 12 hours (10 hours with lossless recording), the Tula mic can be a truly independent mic-slash-recording device for getting high-quality sound.

Having no screen gives the Tula mic a rather classic look and makes usability feel more straightforward. No need to swipe through menus or work with some fancy touch UI since side of the device features an array of icon-marked buttons.

Managing recorded files

Your computer will also treat the Tula mic as a storage device because of its built-in flash memory. This is something you should keep in mind as it serves as your only means of transferring the recorded clips out of the mic, or deleting them. Just plug it into your computer using the USB cable and pull up the menu to manage your files.

Buttons for quick control

The buttons on the right include an on/off, play/pause, stop, record, and volume controls while the opposite end offers gain, skip, and mute controls along with dedicated toggles for the noise reduction and mic mode respectively.

On the front of the Mic are two lights: On the left is the recording indicator button, (if it’s red it’s recording) showing you it’s on and working, while the right side gives simple at-a-glance gain info. (This is one of those minor faults; you can’t accurately assess your gain level on the microphone, you need to monitor it on your computer or using your audio recording software.)

Battery

A tiny low battery indicator is on the back and only comes on for 5 seconds after you hit the power (another of those small imperfections). Green is full, yellow means you’re getting low and red means charge now. Tula says you should get about 10-12 hours of continuous recording per charge.

Brusfri Noise Reduction

The Tula Mic has Klevgrand’s Brusfri noise reduction technology built right in. Klevgrand is the same company that makes a Brusfri plug-in for digital audio workstation (DAW) software and it does a terrific job in eliminating unwanted background noise. On top of that, using the feature only shaves away 2 hours of the total battery life, leaving plenty of juice for long recording sessions.

This technology is helpful, but not made to erase a poor quality recording environment; it’s not going to magically eliminate barking, dogs, or screaming kids, it’s there to enhance the overall sound.

It’s easy enough to activate also; just push the NC button on the side while the background noise is present and don’t speak or introduce other sound. The internal software it will learn what the sound is that you don’t want to be there and adapt accordingly. To turn this off, you can just press the NC button again. The LED light being off means no noise cancellation is happening. Worth noting is that the Tula Mic will always save a version of your file both with and without noise cancellation so you have the option to experiment.

3.5mm/aux Jack

With the headphone jack gone from virtually all modern smartphones, tablets, and even some laptops, seeing the 3.5mm jack on the Tula mic is a bit of a surprise. The jack does far more than just allowing you to connect wired headphones for listening to your stored recordings. With live monitoring, you can use any pair of wired headphones or wireless headphones with a 3.5mm jack to listen to your voice in real-time as you record on the mic, with no latency.

Rather surprisingly, you can use that Aux port to double your inputs too: plug a lavalier or other microphone into the 3.5mm jack to serve as a second microphone which can be useful for conducting interviews. You can activate the connected microphone anytime you wish by long pressing the “Mic Select” button on the Tula mic.

• When the LED is off, the Tula is in its default UNI mode. This is the best choice when recording sources in front of the Tula. (podcasts, Zoom calls etc)
• A short press will switch the Tula to OMNI mode and illuminate the LED. This is often best for when you want to record an entire room or 360 degree outdoor environment.
• A long press will activate the LAV mic input (via the 3.5mm jack) and cause the LED to

UNI + OMNI Modes

The Tula mic offers both UNI and OMNI modes so you can pick the mode that suits the current environment. The UNI mode serves as the mic’s main feature where the mic only picks up sound coming from the front of the mic. Using the OMNI mode is useful if you prefer picking up sound from all directions.

Recording two-person audio or larger groups

If you want to use the Tula with a lav microphone, plug it in and then long press the Mic Select button for about three seconds so the LED light is flashing. You can adjust the gain using the plus and minus buttons on the upper left side of the Tula so that the game meter is flashing mostly green and not red.

For recording a group, use the Mic Select button to enable omnidirectional recording on both sides of the mic.

Trouble with two

I tried using the Tula with a Lav, and the first thing to note is it doesn’t seem to work in live mode; you must record it to the storage on the mic. The trouble with that was  wasn’t able to access the files when I was recording two users. I fought with it for an afternoon and tried a few different options, but gave up after a few hours. I’ll have to do some more reading on this, and if you have experience here, please put it in comments. The simple fix for now will be just to use Omni mode for multiple speakers.

In case you’re wondering, here are the steps for recording in Interview Mode:

1. Turn on the Tula by short pressing the ON/OFF button (bottom right)
2. Plug the lavaliere mic (TRRS only) into the 3.5mm jack (top right)
3. Attach the lavaliere mic to your subject.
4. LONG press the RECORD button (center right) (front LEDs will flash green twice)
5. The front LEDs both function as gain meters in Interview Mode. The left one indicates the level of the Tula’s main mic and the right on indicates the level of the lav mic.
6. You may adjust the level of the main mic using the + and – keys on the LEFT side of the Tula and the level of the lavaliere mic using the + and – keys on the RIGHT side of the Tula.

Missing Features

As impressive as the Tula mic’s feature set is, there are a few small omissions that are worth noting here. I am not deducting any points for these omissions, simply pointing them out for those for whom these might be dealbreakers.

No wireless or Bluetooth connection

This might be obvious by now but the Tula mic shouldn’t be considered a wireless mic. Without any built-in Bluetooth or other wireless functionality, you really need the data cable to get your audio to a computer or mobile device. Having no Bluetooth support also means that you cannot use your favorite wireless earbuds as live monitors for the Tula mic.

The lack of a screen may have its advantages but those who might be used to seeing a VU meter will have to get used to the different light indicators on the device. The Tula mic also lacks a built-in speaker, making it impossible to play back audio recordings without connecting a pair of wired headphones (which almost no one has any more).

While 8 GB of built-in storage space is a rather unique feature, but you cannot check how much storage the device has left without plugging it into a computer. The mic is also limited to recording WAV files which are great quality but are also very large in file size. I would have appreciated it if Tula offered the choice to the user to decide if they want pristine audio quality or something down the middle such as a high-quality MP3 or even FLAC support which is also lossless but doesn’t take up as much space.

Overall review: Tula Mic

Overall the Tula mic is beautifully designed; it’s small and portable, it’s versatile, since you can use it on its built in stand or on a mic arm. It also doubles as a wireless voice recorder. The sound quality was surprisingly great for the size of this device and the fact I can use it with smart phones, tablets, and on my MacBook, makes it an amazing audio chameleon.

The buttons and lights are user-friendly and easy to read, and it’s easy enough to make adjustments on the fly. The array of clever accessories you can also get for this mic also make it a must have for content creators on the move.

So what are the downsides? I can say some of the indicator lights could be a little more robust, but it’s hard to wish for too much more while wanting to keep the package small. I guess the other downside is that it will not function as a wireless microphone; you do need to keep it plugged in to a computer if you are transferring audio in real time. (Though you could record then transfer audio after the fact).

While more hard-core pro users might find this microphone lacking, I think it’s an outstanding package for your average content creator, podcaster, or expert Zoom presenter.

Selling for $259 USD/349CAD the Tula Mic is like a Swiss army knife for creators. Yes it’s expensive, but I think it’s absolutely genius, extremely versatile, and I love using it both at home and on the road.

You can get the Tula Mic from Tula’s website or from Amazon.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Review: Tula foldable USB microphone appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Chances are high that if you’re reading this article, you own at least one Apple device. Apple has been constantly revolutionizing the way we use and interact with technology. From its humble beginnings in the world of computers, with the original Mac, Apple has since diversified its product offerings, leading the way in consumer electronics.  These days about 48-percent of phone owners in the USA use iPhones, and about 19-percent of users around the globe are iPhone owners. Collectively we spend a lot of money on Apple devices, which has helped make Apple the world’s first company valued at three-trillion-dollars. In short: they’re a massive global phenomenon. But how much do you know about Apple? The company’s history and it’s core devices go back decades.

The Evolution of Apple

Early Days of Apple’s Computer-Focused Approach

In its early days, Apple primarily focused on computers. Founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976, Apple’s first breakthrough came with the introduction of the original Macintosh in 1984. This innovative computer showcased Apple’s dedication to user-friendly design and served as a foundation for its future endeavors.

Transition to a Broader Range of Consumer Electronics

As Apple continued to grow, it recognized the potential for expansion beyond computers. With the introduction of products like the iPod, iPhone, and AirPods, Apple ventured into new territories while still maintaining its commitment to smooth-as-silk user experience and avant-garde design. This shift marked a turning point for the company, propelling it into the vanguard of the consumer electronics industry.

Apple’s Innovative Approach to Design and Technology

One of the hallmarks of Apple’s success lies in its firm pledge to innovative design and technology. The company has consistently pushed boundaries, introducing groundbreaking features and functionalities that have set industry standards.

By focusing on the marriage of form and function, Apple has created products that not only perform exceptionally but also captivate users with their aesthetic appeal.

iPhones (From 2007): Revolutionizing Communication and Connectivity

The smartphone world has been forever altered by a single device: the iPhone. Since its debut in 2007, Apple’s iconic creation has set the bar for innovation, reshaped consumer expectations, and redefined the very nature of mobile technology.

“I remember distinctly watching the product announcement on the news and being blown away that a single device could be a phone (I already had a flip phone that did nothing but make calls), a Palm Pilot (an old school digital address and notebook that predated the iPhone) and my camera.” – Erin

The First-Generation iPhone (2007): A Revolutionary Beginning

The unveiling of the first-generation iPhone was a moment that rewrote the rules of mobile technology. In a world dominated by button-filled devices, the iPhone showcased a touch interface that defied conventions. Visual voicemail and the absence of a physical keyboard hinted at a future where communication and interactions were reimagined. The 2 megapixel camera was the beginning of the end for carrying DSLR cameras around too.

iPhone 3G (2008): Speed and App Store Launch

The iPhone 3G built upon its predecessor’s success, introducing 3G data speeds and the groundbreaking App Store. Suddenly, smartphones were not just communication devices, but portals to a world of limitless possibilities through apps. This release solidified Apple’s dominance in the market and heralded the era of mobile applications.

iPhone 3GS (2009): Enhanced Performance and Video Recording

The iPhone 3GS further honed the iPhone’s capabilities with improved hardware and the introduction of video recording. With a focus on speed and performance, this iteration maintained its position as a user-favorite, showcasing Apple’s commitment to delivering seamless experiences.

iPhone 4 (2010): The Retina Display and Design Paradigm Shift

The iPhone 4 marked a dramatic shift in design and display technology. The Retina Display set new standards for visual quality, while FaceTime introduced a new dimension to communication. With iOS 4, multitasking and app organization became more intuitive, and the smartphone landscape was irrevocably changed.

iPhone 4s (2011): Siri’s Debut and Camera Upgrades

Siri’s introduction with the iPhone 4s signaled Apple’s push into AI and voice recognition. Enhanced camera capabilities and iCloud integration further cemented the iPhone’s position as a comprehensive digital companion, capable of capturing memories and seamlessly syncing them across devices.

iPhone 5 (2012): Thinner Design and Lightning Connector

The iPhone 5 embraced changing preferences with a thinner design and taller display. The Lightning connector set the stage for a new era of connectivity, and iOS 6 brought improved maps and enhanced features. The iPhone 5 showed that innovation isn’t just about adding new features, but also about refining design and usability.

iPhone 5s (2013): Touch ID and 64-Bit Architecture

The iPhone 5s brought biometric security to the forefront with Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor that revolutionized device access. The A7 chip’s 64-bit architecture laid the groundwork for enhanced performance and future capabilities, setting a new benchmark for mobile computing.

iPhone 6 (2014): Larger Screens and Apple Pay

With the iPhone 6, Apple embraced larger screens, catering to users’ desire for more real estate. NFC capabilities brought forth Apple Pay, transforming the way we make transactions. The iPhone 6 showcased Apple’s ability to anticipate and adapt to changing trends.

iPhone 6s (2015): 3D Touch and Improved Cameras

The iPhone 6s introduced 3D Touch, a pressure-sensitive technology that added a new layer of interaction. Enhanced cameras and Live Photos brought memories to life in innovative ways, illustrating how the iPhone constantly reimagines photography and user experiences.

iPhone SE (2016): Compact Form and Performance

The iPhone SE combined powerful internals with a compact form factor, catering to users seeking a device that fit comfortably in their hands. The A9 chip’s performance in a smaller body showcased Apple’s dedication to providing top-notch experiences for all users.

iPhone 7 (2016): Water Resistance and Removal of Headphone Jack

The iPhone 7’s water-resistant design added durability to the lineup, while the controversial removal of the headphone jack pushed the industry toward wireless audio solutions. Apple’s willingness to challenge norms highlighted its commitment to pushing technological boundaries.

iPhone 8 (2017): Wireless Charging and A11 Bionic Chip

The iPhone 8 introduced wireless charging through a glass back, marking another step in the pursuit of convenience. The A11 Bionic chip’s performance boost showcased Apple’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology while maintaining the iPhone’s iconic design.

iPhone X (2017): Edge-to-Edge Display and Face ID

The iPhone X’s all-screen design and Face ID marked a bold departure from previous models. OLED technology and features like Animoji demonstrated Apple’s ability to seamlessly merge innovative hardware and software, setting a precedent for the next era of smartphone design.

iPhone XR (2018): Colorful and Affordable

The iPhone XR offered colorful options and a more affordable entry point into the iPhone ecosystem. The LCD Liquid Retina display and single camera continued to deliver impressive experiences while expanding Apple’s offerings to a wider audience.

iPhone XS (2018): Improved Cameras and A12 Bionic Chip

The iPhone XS and XS Max’s camera advancements and the A12 Bionic chip’s AI capabilities showcased Apple’s focus on photography and performance. The blend of hardware and software enhancements further solidified the iPhone’s reputation for pushing technological boundaries.

iPhone 11 (2019): Dual Cameras and Night Mode

The iPhone 11’s emphasis on photography brought dual cameras and Night mode, revolutionizing low-light photography. The A13 Bionic chip’s power underscored Apple’s commitment to seamless performance and elevated user experiences.

iPhone SE (2020): Compact Form with Modern Power

The second-generation iPhone SE blended modern power with a compact form, offering users a device that combined performance with a budget-friendly price point. The A13 Bionic chip’s capabilities ensured that users didn’t have to compromise on performance.

iPhone 12 (2020): 5G and Ceramic Shield

The iPhone 12 lineup embraced the future with 5G connectivity, ushering in a new era of high-speed data access. The Ceramic Shield technology further enhanced durability, ensuring that the device could withstand the weights of modern life.

 iPhone 13 (2021): A15 Bionic Chip and Advanced Camera Features

The iPhone 13’s A15 Bionic chip and computational photography capabilities continued the trend of pushing technological boundaries. Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles introduced novel ways to capture and enhance images, demonstrating the iPhone’s commitment to innovation.

iPhone 14 (2022): Camera Abilities and Performance Enhancement

The iPhone 14 refines with improved cameras and chipset yet offers a modest leap from the iPhone 13. Notable upgrades include a larger main camera sensor and Action mode for stabilized videos. A15 Bionic’s 6-Core CPU and 5-core GPU boost performance and while a step forward, it may not warrant an immediate upgrade for iPhone 13 users.

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iPods (From 2001): Redefining Music Portability

The way we consume music has evolved dramatically over the years, thanks to continuous advancements in technology. In the early 2000s, a groundbreaking innovation changed the game forever – the iPod. Apple’s iconic line of portable media players redefined how we experienced music and left an indelible mark on the tech and music industries.

When the first iPod was unveiled by Steve Jobs in 2001, it wasn’t just a device; it was a revolution. It reimagined how we interacted with music in the digital age, making vast music libraries pocket-sized. The iPod lineup spanned multiple models, each with its unique features and design elements.

The iPod Classic: Revolutionizing Digital Music (2001-2014)

The iPod Classic, the forebear of all iPods, set the stage for an era of music portability. With its iconic click wheel and sleek design, it allowed users to carry thousands of songs in their pockets. Through various versions, the Classic refined its interface, storage capacity, and battery life. Its simplicity in design and unparalleled storage capabilities defined its legacy as the quintessential music companion.

The iPod Mini: Compact Style and Portability (2004-2005)

As the iPod lineup expanded, the iPod Mini found its place, introducing vibrant colors and a compact form factor. It catered to fashion-conscious users while retaining the core music experience. The Mini paved the way for future iPod models by showing very smartly that style and substance could coexist in the world of portable music players.

The iPod Nano: Slimming Down with Enhanced Features (2005-2017)

The iPod Nano was all about sleekness and sophistication. With a slim profile, it incorporated enhanced features like video playback and FM radio. As its generations progressed, it became a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking a stylish device that seamlessly blended music with other functionalities.

The iPod Shuffle: Embracing Simplicity (2005-2017)

For those who desired the simplest music experience, the iPod Shuffle was the answer. It embraced minimalism with its button-only interface and compact design. The Shuffle catered to a niche audience who valued an uncomplicated music consumption experience.

The iPod Touch: Merging Music with App Capabilities (2007-Present)

The iPod Touch bridged the gap between the iPod and the iPhone, introducing app capabilities while keeping music at its core. This multi-functional device allowed users to explore not only music but also a wide range of applications. The Touch played a fundamental role in introducing a new generation to the Apple ecosystem, influencing their tech preferences.

AirPods (From 2016): Wireless Audio and Beyond

With the introduction of AirPods, Apple played conductor to a transformation in wireless audio. These unassuming earbuds wielded the power to untangle us from cords and liberate our auditory senses. Our exploration begins here, where innovation intertwined with the beats of reality.

First-Generation AirPods: Pioneering Sonic Freedom (Launched 2016)

First-Generation AirPods weren’t just earbuds; they were the architects of a wire-free movement. The inclusion of the W1 chip elevated them beyond mere audio accessories, offering a glimpse into a harmonious future. Reception varied, but the conversation was ignited, signaling the industry’s shift towards wireless liberation.

Second-Generation AirPods: An Overture of Refinement (Launched 2019)

The second chapter of the AirPods saga brought subtle upgrades. These earbuds harmonized the experience, tuning connectivity and extending battery life. With the H1 chip as the virtuoso, these AirPods fine-tuned the melody of everyday life, weaving themselves into the tapestry of the Apple ecosystem.  AirPods also became more customizable, and Apple even lets you rename your AirPods.

AirPods Pro: Elevating the Aural Experience (Launched 2019)

In 2019, AirPods ascended to new heights with the Pro variant. Active noise cancellation sculpted the soundscape, while Transparency mode harmoniously balanced immersion and awareness. Improved audio fidelity added depth to the composition, enticing audiophiles seeking quality and versatility.

AirPods Max: Symphony for the Senses (Launched 2020)

A crescendo echoed with AirPods Max, transcending earbuds into a realm of opulent over-ear immersion. High-fidelity sound reverberated through every note, enriched by the Adaptive EQ. The spatial audio experience painted an auditory canvas, enthralling listeners. AirPods Max weren’t just headphones; they were a virtuoso performance.

“AirPods Max are a beautiful product that is absolutely seamless for Apple users. But in my opinion, it’s not worth the ultra high price. I returned mine to Apple.” – Erin

Third-Generation AirPods: A New Wave of Sound (Launched 2021)

Apple’s third-gen AirPods debut a fresh design, shorter stems, and spatial audio. Enhanced fit and integration with Find My, coupled with the familiar ease of use, elevate these earbuds. Sound improvements and extended battery life made them a harmonious choice for both newcomers and upgraders. Around this time  cottage industry started of devices to help you clean and preserve your AirPods.

Apple’s 2nd-Gen AirPods Pro: Evolution, Not Revolution (Launched 2022)

Apple’s latest AirPods Pro might not look drastically different, but they’ve got some tricks up their sleeves. Improved sound quality, way better noise cancellation, and finally, onboard volume controls. The charging case even gained a little speaker and a nifty tracking feature. They’re not a total game-changer, but for die-hard Apple fans, they’re a solid upgrade. Even so they’ve been marred by thousands upon thousands of complaints about the pods breaking, crackling or popping and becoming completely unusable. Similarly, most AirPods need to be reset to keep them working seamlessly. Here’s how to do it.

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Apple’s Original Mac (1984): Pioneering the Personal Computing Era

Introduction to the Original Macintosh Computer

The original Macintosh computer, introduced in 1984, was a revolutionary device that brought personal computing to the masses. With its graphical user interface (GUI) and mouse-driven interaction, the Macintosh simplified the computing experience and made it accessible to a broader audience in the 80s. Its unconventional design and user-friendly features set it apart from other computers of its time.

Historical Significance and Impact on the Computing Industry

The original Macintosh’s impact on the computing industry cannot be overstated. It popularized the use of graphical user interfaces (GUI), setting the stage for future advancements in the field. The Macintosh introduced the concept of intuitive, user-friendly computing, which continues to be a defining characteristic of Apple products to this day. Its influence on the industry laid the foundation for Apple’s future successes.

Connection Between the Original Mac and Modern Apple Devices

While the original Macintosh may seem worlds apart from the shiny iPhones and iPads we use today, it is important to recognize the fundamental connections between them. The Macintosh established Apple’s commitment to intuitive design, seamless user interfaces, and a focus on the end-user experience. These foundations are at the core of all Apple devices, serving as a testament to the lasting impact of the original Mac.

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Apple’s Uniqueness: Design, Ecosystem, and User Experience

Apple’s Design Philosophy and Recognizable Aesthetics

Apple’s unique design philosophy is what sets its products apart from the competition. The company’s meticulous attention to detail, minimalist approach, and commitment to clean lines and sleek profiles have become its trademark. The iconic Apple logo, coupled with the use of premium materials, create a sense of luxury and desirability that resonates with consumers worldwide.

Plus, one of Apple’s greatest strengths lies in the seamless integration of its devices and services within its ecosystem. From iCloud to AirDrop and Handoff, Apple has created an ecosystem that allows users to effortlessly transition between their devices and access their information anytime, anywhere. This integration not only enhances the user experience but also fosters brand loyalty among Apple users.

Apple’s success can be largely attributed to its relentless focus on user experience. Every aspect of its products, from the packaging to the software, is meticulously crafted to ensure a delightful and intuitive experience for the user. This dedication to user-centric design has earned Apple a loyal following and has contributed to its enduring triumph in the tech industry.

What’s next for Apple?

Apple’s journey from its origins in computers to its current diverse range of consumer products has been nothing short of remarkable. The company has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology and design, and its products have become synonymous with innovation and luxury.

The continuing impact of iconic products like the iPhone, iPod, and AirPods cannot be overstated. These devices have not only transformed their respective industries but have also become cultural icons. The iPhone, for example, has revolutionized the way we communicate, consume media, and access information. The iPod changed the way we listen to music, and the AirPods have made wireless earbuds a must-have accessory.

As Apple continues to innovate and redefine the boundaries of technology, its contributions to the tech world will undoubtedly leave a legacy. The company has already changed the way we live and work, and it is poised to do even more in the years to come.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post A brief history of every Apple device appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.