Anker has just dropped its latest accessory on Amazon UK which is another alternative to charge your device and MagSafe compatible, this comes packed with features and of course is affordable. Features include..
Magnetically attach the PowerCore to the back of your phone
Made for the iPhone 12 series
Charges through compatible magnetic cases
MultiProtect safety system includes temperature control and foreign object detection
Following on from the success of the MagicBridge, Twelve South, an innovative Apple accessories designer, today introduces the MagicBridge Extended. Merging Apple’s Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad and Magic Trackpad 2 into a one-piece control surface, MagicBridge Extended tidies up your workspace and prevents your keyboard and trackpad from drifting apart.
MagicBridge Extended has a minimalist look in keeping with Apple’s iconic style and is available in black or white, to compliment Silver and Space Grey Magic Keyboards with Numeric Keypad. The polycarbonate material is feather light and therefore doesn’t block Bluetooth signals. Silicone feet on the underside protects any surface it sits on. It also has a precisely engineered grill to the rear which provides easy access to power switches and lightning power ports.
For users who like to work and play away from a desktop setup, it can also be used on one’s lap, providing a stable, unified base. Improving typing and swiping efficiency, the Magic Trackpad 2 can be placed either to the right or left of the keyboard, to please both left and right-handed users.
“The original MagicBridge has proven very popular with Apple users and we have been inundated with requests to make a model compatible with numeric keyboards,” says Andrew Green, Twelve South’s co-founder, “we are delighted that we have such a great relationship with our customers that we can release products based on their feedback and requirements.”
MagicBridge Extended is available now for £44.95 from Amazon.co.uk. For those who don’t have the extended Apple Keyboard, the MagicBridge is available for the smaller Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad 2.
Twelve South, a leading designer of Apple accessories, today introduces the Stone’r, a weighted marble base that holds Apple’s MagSafe Charger in place so users can grab their iPhone with one hand, without the charging disc sticking to it. The Stone’r is the perfect place for the iPhone 12 to charge and chill.
For all the greatness of the Apple MagSafe Charger, there is one annoying fact – it takes two hands to physically detach the magnetic charging disc from the back of the iPhone. Enter the Twelve South Stone’r. Weighing one kilo and made from elegant Banswara White Marble, the Stone’r is heavy enough to stop the Apple MagSafe Charger from clinging to the iPhone 12 once it’s fully charged. The Stone’r lets users enjoy wireless charging the way it was meant to be.
A new high in iPhone 12 accessories, the Stone’r transforms the Apple MagSafe Charger into a stylish charging stand. Perfect for a bedside table or desk, not only does it prevent the charging disc from slipping to the floor when not in use, it has a non-slip grip base that protects the surface beneath it. The Stone’r also elevates an iPhone slightly so fingers can easily get underneath to pick up the phone, with one hand.
Knowing users will need to take their MagSafe Charger with them when they travel, the Stone’r also features a finger hole in the base enabling the charging disc to be easily popped out. This means users can continue to enjoy blazing fast charging with the Apple MagSafe Charger wherever they roam.
Happy April Foo…wait. The Stone’r started out as a concept for April Fools’ Day however, if enough people pre-order, Twelve South will make it for real. The Stone’r is available to pre-order today for $34.99 from here. Once a minimum number of Stone’rs have been ordered, production will start and Twelve South will ship to customers as quickly as possible. In the unlikely event that the required minimum order is not reached, Twelve South will refund any existing pre-orders immediately. Customers have until 20.4.21 to pre-order.
Twelve South, a leading designer of Apple accessories, today introduces the new redesigned ParcSlope, a sleek metal dual-purpose stand that elevates MacBook screens and angles iPads for more comfort and productivity. ParcSlope is available now for £49.99 from Amazon.co.uk.
The Twelve South ParcSlope is a one-piece metal stand that raises a MacBook screen to an optimum viewing position while keeping the keyboard angled and low to the desk for comfortable typing. Whilst the ParcSlope is a great addition to any home office set up, it is also small and light enough that it can be moved around the home in the event users want to work from their kitchen island or dining room table. With ParcSlope, MacBook users will enjoy better ergonomics that help to relieve shoulder and wrist pain, a video call friendly viewing angle and an open wedge design that allows for increased airflow and a cooler, quieter MacBook.
For iPad users, ParcSlope angles the device to a wrist-friendly 18-degree angle that’s perfect for sketching, creative work, note taking or performing music. The matte black easel stand is sturdy and holds every iPad (except iPad mini) in a landscape or portrait mode. ParcSlope even allows users to turn their iPad into a mini desktop by pairing it with a wireless keyboard providing an even smarter way to work.
A must-have for MacBook and iPad users, this versatile modern stand also features tiny ridges along the top that are just enough to allow the MacBook screen to swing freely open, while a lip at the front of the stand enables users to open their MacBook with one hand while gravity holds the notebook in place. Additionally, an oval cutout at the back of the stand holds cables securely when an iPad or MacBook is not in use.
The Twelve South ParcSlope is available now for £49.99 from Amazon.co.uk.
Clones are easy to find today and with demanding kids they want the best, the overpriced APPLE airpods which are not the best in the world in my book though some will argue that. We have tried several pairs of these and more here and this company claims they are better than the other offerings out there, to an extent they are right especially with the pro version as you will see in the video review below.
We have both pair on offer from the company here and tested both out and both do a great job and the pros are really good and better than expected, I have found some pro models to be lacking in features but this pair does not and have ANC built in, Now when I say that it is not the best ANC in the world but it is there and works depending on your environment and you also get transparency mode too for those who commute or cycle with their earbud on even though you should not.
Below is the links for both products but check out the video review for more.. As always mentioned with clones I can not stand over how long they will last and from testing both these they seem solid and perhaps an alternative for parents to purchase for a stocking filler rather than spending silly money on the real thing.
Recently I got these sent in the post to me and they are called minipods and true to form they are what they say on the tin but offer the same sound experince as expected from the larger sized ones available just about anywhere these days, After checking these out for two weeks now they are a decent set of true wireless earbuds that come in well under Apple pricing and are loud plus have all the features within however with the likes of clones how long they will last is something I cant comment on and never will and is always a risk when purchasing but overall they have served me fine still to this day and remember the cost element here and they are handy to have as a second pair or even a stocking filler this Christmas.
Smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles… Gadgets are now among the most sought after gifts on Christmas wish lists for adults and children alike. Recent research found parents will apparently spend €1000 on tech gifts this year with the PS5 and Nintendo Switch being the most wanted gifts.
If you’re buying a gift for one of those lucky enough to receive a hot new gadget from Santa, or you’re on the ‘nice’ list yourself, Twelve South has a fantastic selection of products to accessorise, charge and protect this year’s most sought after gadget gifts.
AirFly Pro – best for Nintendo Switch and AirPods Max RRP: £49.99
This nifty adaptor allows users to pair their Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite with their favourite pair of Bluetooth headphones for an improved audio experience that doesn’t disturb others. The AirFly Pro connects wireless headphones or earbuds that would otherwise be incompatible with the Switch, for an immersive gaming experience free from wires at home or on-the-go. AirFly Pro also lets users stream audio to two sets of headphones, which works well for local multiplayer games. The AirFly Pro is self-powered too, so it won’t drain the Switch’s battery.
AirFly Pro also allows users to wirelessly connect their brand new AirPods Max to devices typically only accessible via a headphone jack, such as gym equipment and in-flight entertainment. Now users can continue to enjoy the outstanding audio from their AirPods Max completely free from wires wherever they are.
House that new precious pair of AirPods Pro in this stylish leather case to protect them from damage and dust. Uses simply place their Airpods Pro and charging case inside, to charge them wirelessly or via lightning cable. The handy S-clip, which can be attached to coats, bags, keys and more, is ideal for anyone who is known for ‘misplacing’ things… There is even a nylon wristlet included to offer another way of keeping Airpods Pro safe. Made from premium top-grain leather and available in three different colours slate blue, cognac and black, the AirSnap Pro is a fashionable way to keep AirPods Pro safe.
BookBook case – best for Kindle Paperwhite and iPad
Kindle has transformed the way we read books, but avid readers can often be heard saying that it can’t be compared to reading a real book… The BookBook for Kindle Paperwhite, gives readers the feel of reading a print book on their digital device. Made with beautiful distressed vintage leather, the case mimics the feel of an ancient book and spine that one might discover in a traditional library while offering useful modern features. The integrated kick-stand gives users a hands-free reading option, ideal for reading over breakfast or lunch. The BookBook case is also available for iPhone, iPad and MacBook models, making a whole library of book themed gadgets possible!
BookBook for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro
RRP: $69.99
Compatible with iPhone 12/12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini
Give Apple’s latest flagship phones a vintage twist with the BookBook for iPhone 12. Hand crafted from distressed full-grain leather, the BookBook wallet case turns one of the world’s most modern smartphones into a gorgeous ancient book. Keep the new Apple Card as well as other credit and membership cards safe with the wallet section or separate the magnetic shell to keep the phone protected while using it in the gym or docked in a car holder. The case also folds to serve as a viewing stand so users can watch their favourite movies and TV shows while on the move.
BookBook for MacBook
RRP: £95.70
Compatible models: 12 inch Macbook, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 16 Inch MacBook
BookBook is the iconic MacBook case that makes a statement wherever it goes, the hand-crafted full grain leather cases giving MacBooks the appearance of a vintage book. The vol 2 edition is refined and tailored exclusively for the USB-C MacBooks with a slim silhouette and a strong, crush-resistant spine, with the added bonus of a hidden portfolio pocket to carry printed reports, swatch samples, contracts and so on. Not only does this case protect MacBooks while not in use, it can also be used as an outer shell while in use too, ideal for protection while on transport and in cafes.
SuitCase – best for MacBook
RRP: £79.99
Available from Amazon UK Compatible models: MacBook Pro, MacBook Air
A thoughtful gift for Apple lovers who have a MacBook Air or Macbook Pro. Available in two sizes (13in and 16in), SuitCase boasts many features that are designed to protect precious Macbooks from scratches, bumps, water damage and more. The quilted signature diamond pattern exterior and thermoform shell securely hold and protect the MacBook inside. Inside, there is a small pocket ideal for carrying a small notebook or cable. With a slim design and a recessing leather handle, the SuitCase will fit comfortably into a work bag or backpack.
Users can also work on their MacBook without removing it from the SuitCase, again helping to keep it in pristine condition. Twelve South’s innovative suspension system holds the SuitCase securely against the MacBook without interfering with its display.
It’s ideal for professionals and creatives who enjoy taking their Macbooks for trips to coffee shops and the office or far-flung business trips and holidays.
DxO PhotoLab 4, the world’s most advanced photo-editing software in terms of image processing launched two months ago, lets users harness the full potential of the new Apple M1 chip powering the latest generation of the Mac Mini, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro. The newest version of the software, DxO PhotoLab 4.1, also offers better colour control through its improved HSL tool and support for five new cameras.
Three to Five Times Faster Performance Compared to the Most Recent 13” MacBook Pro and Intel Mac Mini
The architecture of the latest Apple M1 chip has been optimised with image processing and artificial intelligence algorithms in mind. It’s only natural then that the extraordinary image quality made possible by DxO PhotoLab 4’s DxO DeepPRIME image processing technology is now dramatically more efficient on the latest generation of Mac Mini, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro.
Users can now process their images three to five times faster compared to the most recent 13” MacBook Pro and Mac Mini for nearly half the cost—and in silence. Images are exported at 1.5 mpix/s, which is faster than the previous version of DxO PRIME. In fact, the Apple M1 chip greatly reduces the time it takes to complete all edits. Because the technology applies a denoising and a demosaicing algorithm simultaneously, the quality of photos (including low-ISO images) processed with DxO DeepPRIME is unmatched. When paired with Mac computers outfitted with the M1 chip, the technology can be applied seamlessly every time.
DxO DeepPRIME has Revolutionized Denoising and RAW Conversion Technology
DxO DeepPRIME is based on the latest artificial intelligence technologies and significantly improves noise reduction while also delivering more effective demosaicing. The resulting photo quality is nothing short of spectacular, especially for photos taken in low light conditions that require brightening certain areas, photos with small pixels, and photos taken with early-generation cameras.
To demosaic and reduce noise in RAW images, DxO DeepPRIME was trained using several billion samples. Since its founding in 2003, DxO has earned an international reputation for calibrating hundreds of cameras and thousands of lenses using a protocol that is more comprehensive than any other in the industry. DxO has measured the distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberrations, loss of sharpness, and digital noise generated by each equipment combination and in every situation with an extraordinary level of precision.
Using a traditional approach, these two operations are performed separately, with each one introducing artifact that degrade the quality of the other. With deep learning, DxO DeepPRIME has adopted a holistic approach that combines the two steps into one in order to deliver exceptional performance.
Improved HSL Tool
DxO PhotoLab 4’s HSL (Hue–Saturation–Luminance) Tool features an exclusive adjustment mode based on the colour wheel called DxO ColorWheel. With this tool, you can select a colour range from eight different channels, fine-tune the value, select a replacement colour, and adjust your transitions as much as you like. DxO PhotoLab 4.1 now displays a mask in the image being edited that lets you instantly identify the selected colour area. The result is a more seamless user experience and even more opportunities to unleash your creativity. The Uniformity slider lets you adjust colour variations within a specific range. The Saturation and Luminance sliders also offer an incredible degree of flexibility, especially when converting a colour image to black and white and when creating partially desaturated images.
New Camera Support
DxO PhotoLab 4.1 continues to add the latest cameras to the list of equipment it supports. The program now supports the Nikon Z 6II, the Sony A7C and A7S III, and the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H. A new drone, the DJI Mavic Air 2, has also been added to the optical modules database.
Price and Availability
The ESSENTIAL and ELITE editions of DxO PhotoLab 4 (PC and Mac) are now available for download on DxO’s website (https://shop.dxo.com/) for the following prices until December 31, 2020:
DxO PhotoLab 4 ESSENTIAL Edition: £86.99 instead of £112
DxO PhotoLab 4 ELITE Edition: £129.99 instead of £169
DxO PhotoLab 4 users can download this update for free. You do not need a subscription to use DxO PhotoLab 4. You can install the program on two computers with the DxO PhotoLab 4 ESSENTIAL Edition or on three computers with the DxO PhotoLab 4 ELITE Edition. Photographers with a license for DxO OpticsPro or PhotoLab 3 can purchase an upgrade license for DxO PhotoLab 4 by signing into their customer account on https://shop.dxo.com/login_upgrade.php/. A fully functional, one-month trial version of DxO PhotoLab 4 is available on the DxO website: https://www.dxo.com/dxo-photolab/download/.
With less than 6 weeks until Christmas, the hunt is on for the perfect Christmas gift for Apple lovers. Below is a host of gadgets and accessories for the latest Apple products (including the new Macbook series and iPhone 12 series) that will make the Apple experience even better. The gadgets and accessories include UV sanitizers to keep your iPhone12 clean, iPhone 12 cases and screen protectors, plus cases and stands for the new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini, and a portable USB-C hub.
The QDOS UV Sanitizer quickly and easily disinfects your iPhone, tech devices and accessories eliminating up to 99.99% of common surface bacteria at the click of a button. Qi functionality also allows you to wirelessly charge your smartphone while disinfecting other devices such as a smartwatch or earphones simultaneously. The QDOS UV Sanitizer offers two UV-C light sterilisation modes including three-minute rapid or 10-minute intensive sterilisation.
Sleek, slim and easy to grip, the crystal-clear QDOS I HYBRID case perfectly showcases the design of the iPhone 12 while providing everyday protection. The HYBRID is made from a unique blend of highly protective materials and features air-cushionedTPU corners that can keep the iPhone safe from a drop of up to 4ft. With flexible sides (available in clear, navy or space grey) and a solid,scratch-resistant and transparent polycarbonate back, the HYBRID case is easy to get on and off. To ensure the case stays looking pristine, the HYBRID has been treated with an optimised coating to prevent discolouration.
Soft to the touch, the QDOS I TOUCH case for iPhone 12 is made with real liquid silicone for a silky-smooth finish that is easy to grip. Combining a shock-absorbent polycarbonate inner shell with a high-quality wipe-clean finish, the TOUCH provides everyday protection from knocks and bumps and is resistant to dust, dirt, spills and marks. The interior has been lined with soft microfibre which encases the iPhone 12 perfectly. TOUCH has also been designed with precision cut-outs, offering easy access to ports and buttons.
QDOS I OptiGuard™
SRP from £19.99
QDOS’ new generation of OptiGuard™ screen protectors, now available for the iPhone 12 series, are as tough as they come. Made from premium Japanese tempered glass with a hardness rating of 9H, they offer protection against impacts, scratches and shock, without affecting the sharpness, clarity or touch sensitivity of the screen. Antimicrobial protection kills 99.99% of bacteria on the surface of the phone while an oleophobic coating repels fingerprints and oily residue. Each screen protector comes with an original bespoke application tool that helps to remove bubbles for the perfect installation. The OptiGuard™ range, which also offers a limited lifetime warranty, includes:
QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Protect: Ultra-thin 0.3mm glass screen protection with a 9H hardness rating and ultra-clarity. Offering hassle-free installation with an easy applicator tool, the OptiGuard Glass offers perfect touch sensitivity for the iPhone 12. Available for:iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Curve Clear: Curved and designed to fit around the display of the iPhone 12, the OptiGuard Curve offers maximum edge-to-edge protection against impact and scratches. Available for:iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Curve Privacy: Shielding data from shoulder-surfers in public, the OptiGuard Glass Privacy incorporates a 180-degree privacy filter. This restricts the angle of view to the user directly facing the screen. Available for:iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
Twelve South SuitCase for Macbook
From £69.99
Available for the 13-inch MacBook Pro/Air and the 16-inch MacBook Pro from Amazon.co.uk
Providing maximum protection, the new Twelve South SuitCase combines a stylish, quilted water-resistant exterior with a thermoform shell to securely hold and protect the MacBook inside. With a slim design and a recessing leather handle, the SuitCase will fit comfortably into a workbag or backpack for everyday use. Alternatively, knowing that the new MacBooks have 20 hours of battery life, if users would rather travel light with just a few papers and a Lightning cable, a handy slim pocket hidden inside the case can hold notes, cables and other essentials.
Users can easily work on their MacBook without removing it from the SuitCase thanks to Twelve South’s innovative suspension system which holds the case securely against the MacBook without interfering with its display. Dual wetsuit-style zippers keep the SuitCase securely closed but also allow for the MacBook to be easily and safely charged whilst still inside the case.
The Twelve South Curve SE is the perfect stand to pair with a new MacBook. Not only does it perfectly match clean modern office spaces and the aesthetics of many Apple accessories, it also has an improved ergonomic design. Users no longer have to hunch over and tilt their head downwards towards a screen, they can easily elevate their MacBook to a healthier, more comfortable height.
Offering multiple uses, the Curve SE can be paired with a full-sized keyboard and mouse for a convenient desktop setup or used with a monitor for dual screen functionality. Its minimal design uses a single piece of aluminum which allows for 70% of the base to be exposed for optimal cooling. Anti-slip silicone pads and bent arms keep the laptop in place and prevents scratches.
The Twelve South BookArc is the little MacBook stand that makes room for a big monitor by holding a MacBook vertically and off the desk. By placing a closed MacBook on the BookArc and plugging in an external monitor, keyboard & mouse users now have a comfortable desktop setup for their home or office. Things like photo editing, spreadsheets and other projects are easier to see on a bright 24-inch (or bigger) screen. When it’s time to go mobile or head out for a meeting, unplug the desktop connections and the BookArc Cable Catch will keep them in place.
The Twelve South Curve Riser is the perfect accessory for the Mac mini. A handsome and practical stand designed to elevate iMacs and external monitors, it also features an integrated shelf which is the ideal place to put a Mac mini. Perfect for home offices or those with limited space, Curve Riser helps to keep desks clutter free.
The Twelve South HiRise for MacBook is a beautifully designed, height adjustable stand that elevates a laptop to the perfect position. Unlike fixed stands, the HiRise allows users to set their screen height from a few inches up to a half foot off their desk, making it perfect for MacBooks and users of all sizes. HiRise allows users to align a MacBook with an external monitor for the ultimate dual-display set-up. Users can perch their MacBook on the HiRise and pair with their favourite wireless keyboard and mouse to create a comfortable and convenient workstation. This sleek brushed metal stand features non-slip arms to securely hold all size MacBooks from 11-inch Air to 16-inch Pro.
The Twelve South StayGo is a portable USB-C hub that’s designed to add additional ports to USB-C MacBooks and MacBook Pros. Perfect for anyone who is working from home and perhaps missing their office set up, the StayGo makes it much easier to connect extra screens, a keyboard, storage and displays etc.
The hub comes with eight port options built in including a 4K HDMI port, three USB A 3.0 ports, gigabit ethernet port, an SD port, a micro SD port, and an 85W USB-C pass-through power port which allows you to connect your power source to the StayGo to keep your MacBook Pro charged up while powering other devices such as an iPhone, AirPods, Apple Watch etc. The Gigabit Ethernet port is especially useful allowing users to connect to super-fast wired networks and servers.