Tag: #cable

SIVGA Introduces the M260 HiFi Wired Earbuds

SIVGA is pleased to announce the launch of the all-new M260 HiFi Wired Earbuds, a stylish and affordable wired solution designed for music lovers, commuters and gamers alike. Combining a nostalgic, retro-inspired aesthetic with modern driver technology, the M260 delivers balanced, high-quality sound at an accessible price point.
Available from 8th May from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide, the SIVGA M260 will be available in two versions:
3.5mm – £39.90 / $39.90 / €45.00
USB-C – £45.00 / $45.00 / €50.00

Retro Design. Modern Sound.

Drawing inspiration from the golden era of portable audio, the M260 features a classic earbud form factor reminiscent of vintage cassette players and early portable CD systems. The metallic finish and exposed grille design give the M260 a distinctive retro character, while its lightweight construction ensures comfort for extended listening sessions.
Whether paired with a modern smartphone, laptop or handheld gaming device, the M260 bridges generations of audio design – offering a timeless look with contemporary performance.

14.2mm Dynamic Driver with Copper-Ring Composite Bio-Diaphragm

At the heart of the M260 is a 14.2mm dynamic driver, engineered to provide an expansive soundstage and impressive clarity. The copper-ring composite bio-diaphragm enhances diaphragm control, reducing distortion and improving overall tonal balance.
This results in a balanced tuning with smooth, non-fatiguing sound and natural vocal presentation, ideal for everything from streaming playlists and podcasts to immersive gaming sessions. Subtle in-game cues, dialogue clarity and layered soundtracks are reproduced with precision, giving gamers and everyday listeners alike a reliable wired performance free from latency.

High-Performance Driver System

To further optimise performance, SIVGA has implemented a lightweight CCAW (Copper-Clad Aluminium Wire) voice coil for faster transient response and improved clarity. A N50 neodymium magnet provides powerful drive and precise control across the frequency range, contributing to the M260’s dynamic yet controlled presentation.
With a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, 118dB sensitivity and 16Ω impedance, the M260 is easy to drive directly from smartphones, computers and laptops and handheld gaming consoles.

Detachable MMCX Cable for Flexibility and Longevity

The M260 features an MMCX detachable cable system, allowing users to swap cables easily for flexible sound customisation. The included 4N silver-plated OFC cable ensures clean and detailed signal transmission while enhancing durability.
For added convenience and device compatibility, the M260 is available in two plug configurations:
• 3.5mm L-shaped plug – designed to reduce cable strain and improve durability
• USB-C straight plug with integrated DAC and microphone
The USB-C version includes a built-in Realtek ALC5686 DAC supporting up to 32-bit/384kHz Hi-Res audio. The high-sensitivity microphone features multi-function controls for calls, music playback and volume, making it an excellent companion for gaming, video calls and everyday communication.

Designed for Everyday Use

Lightweight and supplied with four pairs of ear tips and a protective Oxford fabric carry case, the M260 is built for portability. Its 1.2m cable length offers flexibility whether at a desk, commuting or gaming on the move.
By combining retro-inspired styling, modern driver engineering and consumer-friendly pricing, SIVGA has created a wired earbud that delivers dependable performance without compromise.

Fresh ‘n Rebel introduces headphones for little rebels: Code Junior On-Ear Headphones

Mobile must-haves brand Fresh ‘n Rebel  introduces the Code Junior On-Ear Headphones, a collection designed specifically for younger ears. Combining safe high-quality sound with comfort, fun vibrant colours and a fun light effect, they are the perfect headphones to keep kids entertained this summer. Affordable at just £29.99, they are available now from Argos.

The Code Junior On-Ear Headphones offer excellent sound quality with clear audio and balanced bass, yet have been designed with growing ears in mind. The Safe Sound feature, a built-in <85dB volume limiter, ensures that sound levels always stay within safe listening ranges to prevent hearing damage. Whether kids are tuning into their favourite songs, playing games or watching the latest Disney movie on their iPad, parents can feel confident that their hearing is always protected.

The Code Junior Headphones offer 48-hours of playtime making them ideal for long plane journeys or road trips. When the battery does run low, they can be fully recharged in just two hours. Lightweight and comfortable to wear thanks to soft vegan leather ear cushions and a flexible headband, they are the perfect travel companion.

Bluetooth 5.4 enabled with a 10m range, children can listen wirelessly or plug in with the included Buddy Beats cable for endless music and movies. The Buddy Beats cable also allows two pairs of Code Junior headphones to be connected, meaning kids can share music with their friends or siblings or watch their favourite shows together. On-ear controls make them easy to use for little hands.

Allowing kids to show off their personality and style, the Code Junior Headphones are available in four vibrant fun colours including purple, light blue, blue and red. The Fresh ‘n Rebel lobster logo on both sides of the headphones also lights up when listening. Extra fun for your kids! Want to make them unique? These headphones come with fun stickers for extra personalisation.

With a foldable, rotating design for easy storage and made to be durable and completely kid-proof, the Code Junior Headphones are ideal for home use or perfect to pop in a bag and take with you anywhere.

The Fresh ’n Rebel Code Junior Headphones are available now at Argos for £29.99.

See our kids headphones reviews

Twelve South launches CableStay

Twelve South has introduced CableStay, a premium USB-C cable and weighted cable anchor designed as a single, colour-coordinated set built to solve the universal frustration of cables sliding off desks, nightstands, and countertops.

The set pairs a 5-foot woven USB-C to USB-C cable with a weighted silicone stay that keeps the cable exactly where you left it. Holding steady at the edge of any surface, the soft-touch anchor prevents the cable from dropping, while still allowing smooth and natural movement without any locking or friction. Available in Jelly Mint, Electric Fuchsia, Slate, and Dune, CableStay offers more colourful options to the Twelve South ecosystem.

“Most people don’t think about the cable on their desk until it disappears behind the furniture or fails at the connector,” said Diego Nunez, CEO, Twelve South. “CableStay is designed to be the one you actually want within reach — built to last in a way you feel the first time you pick it up, and expressive enough to leave out in the open. The colourways reflect that same intention, adding both personality and dimension to your setup.”

Cables are often plugged into a socket permanently, usually trailing when not in use. The result looks messy and leaves the cable at risk of being trodden on or wheeled over by an office chair, which damages the cable. CableStay keeps cables right where you need them – it’s a small upgrade that makes itself noticed every day.

A Design Object, Not Just a CableThe playful shape and soft, expressive colourways make it easy to add visual interest to any space, whether that be a desk, bedside table, kitchen counter or even a sideboard in the living room. CableStay is designed as a single set, with cable and anchor colour-matched and compact, so that it enhances your workspace or travel setup rather than adding clutter.

The weighted stay is the centrepiece designed with a warm texture and unique shape that makes it feel perfectly at home on a bedside table or desk. The cable is built to match: at 4mm thick, the woven USB-C cable has a substantial, structured feel that sets it apart from the thin, plasticky cables that flood the market. A light silicone coating on the cable adds durability and keeps it clean. 

 

Performance Meets PlayCableStay is designed for everyday use. It delivers the performance you expect from a USB-C cable, and the woven texture and weighted anchor make it something you actually want to leave on your desk. The USB-C to USB-C cable supports up to 60W Power Delivery, supporting charging for iPhone, iPad, Mac accessories, and any USB-C device. The cable’s 4mm build gives it a durability you can feel, especially at the stress points near the connector, where thinner cables tend to fray or bend over time. Flexible enough for comfortable handling, resilient enough for years of plugging and unplugging. The weighted silicone stay uses gravity rather than grip to keep the cable in place, providing just enough weight to keep the cable from sliding off the edge while also letting it move smoothly when you reach for it. The stay can also hold other USB-C cables, keeping your workspace organised beyond the set.

Energy Through ColourCableStay brings a more colourful side to the Twelve South lineup, featuring bold shades of Jelly Mint and Electric Fuchsia alongside the brand’s signature Dune and Slate. Whether on a nightstand, desk, or kitchen counter, CableStay brings a fresh energy to any space. Choose the colour that fits your space or use CableStay to accentuate and accessorise it.

 

 

Key FeaturesWeighted soft-touch silicone stay keeps cables in place without friction or locking

  • 5-foot woven USB-C to USB-C cable with a 4mm build, reinforced construction at stress points, and silicone coating for long-term durability
  • Up to 60W USB-C Power Delivery for charging iPhone, iPad, and Mac accessories
  • Colour-matched cable and anchor designed as a single coordinated set
  • Available in Jelly Mint, Electric Fuchsia, Slate, and Dune
  • Compact and travel-friendly, the anchor and cable pack flat for easy carry
  • Use the anchor with other USB-C cables you already own, not just the included USB-C cable

 

Pricing and AvailabilityCableStay launches April 14 at Twelvesouth.com,Twelvesouth.co.uk and Twelvesouth.eu and will be available on Amazon later in April. The set retails for £29.99 ($29.99 / €39.99).

The Most Overlooked Part of Your Home (That You Use Every Day)

When homeowners think about maintaining or upgrading their homes, they usually focus on visible areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or living spaces. These are the parts guests see and the ones that feel most rewarding to improve. But there is one essential part of the home that is used every single day and often completely overlooked: the garage door.

For many households, the garage door is actually the main entry point of the home. It plays a major role in daily routines, security, and convenience, yet it rarely gets attention until something goes wrong. That’s why many homeowners eventually turn to professionals like 1A Garage Doors to maintain, repair, or upgrade their systems before small issues turn into costly problems.

It’s Used More Than You Think

In many homes, the garage door is opened and closed multiple times a day. Whether it’s leaving for work, coming home, storing items, or accessing tools, it becomes part of everyday life.

Despite this frequent use, most homeowners don’t think about how much wear and tear the system experiences. Over time, repeated use affects components like springs, rollers, tracks, and openers.

Because it operates as a complete system, even a small issue in one part can affect the entire mechanism.

Small Issues Don’t Stay Small

Garage door problems rarely appear all at once. They usually start with small warning signs that are easy to ignore.

Common early signs include:

 

  • Unusual noises when opening or closing
  • Slower movement than usual
  • Uneven or jerky motion
  • The door not closing fully
  • Increased resistance when opening manually

 

Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger issues such as system failure, damaged components, or even safety risks. Addressing problems early helps prevent more expensive repairs later.

Safety Is a Bigger Factor Than Most Realize

Garage doors are heavy and operate under tension, especially due to the spring system that supports their movement. When something goes wrong, it’s not just inconvenient—it can be dangerous.

Modern garage doors include safety features like sensors and automatic stop systems, but these need to be checked regularly to ensure they are working properly.

Potential safety concerns include:

 

  • Broken springs causing sudden door drops
  • Malfunctioning sensors
  • Misaligned tracks
  • Wear and tear on critical components

Regular maintenance reduces these risks and keeps the system safe for everyday use.

It Affects Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Another overlooked factor is how much a garage door can impact energy efficiency—especially in homes with attached garages.

If the garage door is not properly insulated or sealed, it can allow outside air to affect indoor temperatures. This makes heating and cooling systems work harder, increasing energy costs.

Upgrading or maintaining a garage door can help:

 

  • Improve insulation
  • Maintain more stable indoor temperatures
  • Reduce energy bills
  • Increase comfort in nearby rooms

This is one of the most underestimated benefits of a well-functioning garage door.

Maintenance Extends Its Lifespan

Like any mechanical system, garage doors last longer when they are properly maintained. Regular inspections and small adjustments can prevent major breakdowns and extend the life of the system.

Basic maintenance includes:

 

  • Checking springs and cables
  • Inspecting rollers and tracks
  • Testing safety features
  • Ensuring proper alignment

These simple steps can significantly reduce the chances of unexpected failures.

Everyday Convenience Matters More Than You Think

A smooth, reliable garage door makes daily life easier. It saves time, reduces frustration, and ensures consistent performance.

Modern systems offer features like remote access, smart controls, and quiet operation, making them even more convenient.

When everything works properly, you don’t think about it. But when something goes wrong, it quickly becomes one of the most noticeable problems in your home.

A Small Upgrade With a Big Impact

Compared to large renovations, maintaining or upgrading a garage door is a relatively simple investment. However, the impact it has on safety, convenience, and long-term costs is significant.

A properly functioning garage door:

 

  • Improves daily routines
  • Enhances home security
  • Reduces repair costs over time
  • Supports overall home value

Because it is used so frequently, even small improvements can make a big difference.

The Upgrade Most People Forget

Homeowners often focus on what they can see, but the most important parts of a home are often the ones working quietly in the background. The garage door is one of those elements; essential, heavily used, and easy to forget.

Taking care of it ensures that your home runs more smoothly, safely, and efficiently every day. In the end, it’s not just about maintenance—it’s about recognizing the value of something you rely on more than you realize.

Twelve South Introduces Valet at CES 2026

Twelve South today introduces Valet, a wireless charging station and personal essentials tray featuring supple Nappa leather and refined metal framing. Built as a beautiful home object first and a sophisticated wireless charger second, Valet blends warm materials with modern precision to create a calmer, more intentional form factor that works in any place in the home – from the entryway console to the kitchen to the nightstand.

Valet elevates the daily ritual of charging with seamless 15W wireless power for Qi2-compatible devices like iPhone or AirPods. The soft, spacious leather tray keeps cord clutter at bay while placing intuitive charging within reach. An additional USB-C port powers another device, providing a personal charging solution that replaces the visual noise of technology with a design that naturally belongs in the home.

“We wanted the Twelve South Valet to feel like home, not tech,” said Christina Tapp, Principal Industrial Designer at Twelve South. “By stripping away the usual technology cues and focusing on seamless charging, warm, tactile materials, and an architectural form, our Valet becomes part of your decor rather than another device. A familiar place for the things you reach for every day – that just happens to charge.”

A Valet First, a Charger Second

Most chargers are designed for a specific function, eliminating the need for an object to fit aesthetically in the home. Valet evolves beyond the bright circles, LEDs, or raised plastic shapes that typify the category – it’s also not meant to charge every device you have. The soft, square charging pad aligns with the leather tray’s architectural lines. At the same time, the weighted zinc alloy base keeps everything grounded and organised. Phones, keys, watches, and wallets all find a natural home within the tray.

Twelve South’s Valet can adapt to the layout of your environment. Integrated cable management under the base lets you position Valet in one of four ways, allowing you to rotate and place your iPhone on the left or right, or turn the tray to portrait orientation for narrow spaces.

Customisable Style

Designed as a modern heirloom, Valet is built to evolve with your environment, from a new room to a new home. Starting with a weighted base in Black or Taupe Nappa leather, the outer frame is removable, allowing you to swap colors to match your changing aesthetic. With frame options in Black, Taupe, Brown, and Ecru, Valet can be restyled endlessly to complement any interior. Additional frames will be available separately from Twelve South.

Introducing the Goodnight Glow

Valet features a soft, breathing light indicator that gently pulses for eight seconds to confirm charging has begun, then fades away completely. This design eliminates unwanted light pollution to keep your room dark while preventing the common moment of waking up to a phone that did not charge overnight.

Intentional Power, Hidden Complexity

While Valet has a warm, analog feel, its power system is fully modern.

  • Qi2-certified wireless charging up to 15W

  • Additional hidden USB-C port under base delivering 15W to charge a second device such as an Apple Watch, Kindle, or iPad

  • Integrated cable management system allows for four orientation options to fit different nightstands and setups

Key Features

  • Premium Nappa leather valet tray

  • Qi2 wireless charging up to 15W

  • Goodnight Glow pulses to confirm charging, then fades out after eight seconds

  • Interchangeable frame with four orientation options

  • Weighted zinc alloy base with hidden cable management

  • Additional USB-C port (15W) for a second device

  • Includes 36W power adapter and 1.5m USB-C cable

Pricing and Availability

Valet is available today for pre-order in the United States exclusively at twelvesouth.com for USD $179.99, with shipping beginning January 15. International availability, including the UK and Europe, will follow later in 2026.

Stealth RADAR gaming headset review

The Stealth RADAR gaming headset is a simple plug and play headset that works on pretty much any device or multiplaftorm and is not only for just kids but adults alike with an aviator look

The colour model we tested is probably the best loking out of the look leaning towards a Ninendo Switch console and looks nice it is also light a very robust and has a tough braided cable for power.

No app is required on set up here unlike other gaming headsets which can be a cumersome process which make this an easy choice for kids and parents alike.

There is a built in mic and the headset is wired you may need an adapter for some products however but this is not really much of an issue today with USB-C being the main connector although it does use a 3.5mm jack you can aleviate this is your product has no headphone jack via an adapter.

There is also a pop filter on the mic making it sound great on the other end, tested on mobile console and PC I had no issues here at all.

With 40mm drivers the sound is great to be fair even for the price and any user will be happy with how it performs even with just music there was no tinny sound when maxed out or any latency of course veing wired that is why.

The intergrated controls work really well with a simple volume wheel and mute switch for the mic making if a fun and easy to use hassle free headset for most kids and even adults who do not want the fuss of more hard core ones in which we have a review of coming soon, check the video below for more.

 

Features

Multiformat
• 40 mm speaker drivers
• Larger domed earcups
• Flexible, letherette headband
• Soft-foam, breathable mesh ear cushions
• 3.5mm audio jack
• Braided cable
• On-board audio controls
• Built-in mic with pop filter

Available in black from Smyths

Available in White from Argos and Very

Other gaming headset reviews 

Video Review

QDOS PowerMotion Ultra – USB-C to USB-C Cable Review

The QDOS PowerMotion Ultra – USB-C to USB-C Cable is their latest cable on offer within their portfolio of accessories and a cable is a cable to most but in fact this is not the case, we have tested several from the company and some cables offer more than others be it their quality the features and so on.

This cable is ideal for those who want to charge on the go without their mains plug and also ideal for devices such as tablets and phones and it offers more power on the go than your traditional cable and the ones that now rarely come in the box especially with mobile phones.

The cable itself is robust and those often yank a cable from a laptop or phone from a table walking by knows what happens most of the time the cable gets damaged.

What is also key on the cable is the data transfer speed which you will see in the video review below it is much faster than even some decent cables in my collection which most are and this also saves time transferring files from one device to another there is quite a difference.

With a Power & Data Output of 240W and 40Gbps Data transfer it is a must have alongside its durability and it is that simple, see the video below for more.

 

FEATURES

Easy Iconography:
• Device icons on connector ends matches our PowerCube range for seamless product recognition and easy selection

Optimised for:
• USB-C enabled and high-power devices such as; MacBooks/ laptops, iPads/ tablets, iPhones/ smartphones

Universal Compatibility:
• 100% recycled TPE stepped connector ensures seamless compatibility with all devices and cases

Reinforced Connectors:
• Guarantee lasting durability and dependable performance

Nylon Micro-Mesh Braid:
• Provides superior strength, durability and a premium feel

Integrated cable tie:
• Colour-matched and designed for neat storage and compact travel

Durability Tested:
• Withstands 35,000 bends and 60kg of force for exceptional longevity and reliability.

Optimised for future use:
• Durable materials and design ensure lasting functionality with future devices

USB Technology:
• USB 4.0

Power & Data Output:
• 240W Power output
• 40Gbps Data transfer

Length:
• 2 meters

Eco-friendly:
• Housing designed using recycled plastics

Limited lifetime warranty (T&C’s apply)

 

BUY

Other QDOS reviews

Video Review

QDOS launches PowerLoop: 2-in-1 lanyard and charging cable for security and power

QDOS, a leading UK designer of premium tech accessories, is revolutionising mobile convenience with the launch of PowerLoop, a stylish 2-in-1 smartphone lanyard and fast-charging cable available in three different colours.

Designed for power on-the-go, PowerLoop keeps any Android or iPhone device secure and accessible while ensuring it always stays charged up and connected.

No more scrambling for cables

Say goodbye to tangled wires and rummaging through bags for a charger. PowerLoop integrates a high-speed USB-C 60W charging cable with 480Mbps data transfer into a lightweight, durable lanyard, offering both practicality and elegance. Whether commuting, travelling, or on the move, your phone stays close, charged, and ready to go.

Versatile wear for everyday use

Designed for ultimate flexibility, PowerLoop’s 1.2m length allows it to be worn cross-body, around the neck, or over the shoulder. The soft woven fabric is gentle on the skin, ensuring all-day comfort. The USB-C connector end makes it compatible with iPhone and Android devices. Plus, the flexible, clear lanyard tab makes attaching it seamless to most phone cases.

Key features:

  • 2-in-1 Design: Keeps your phone accessible while doubling as a high-speed USB-C cable.

  • Fast charging & data syncing: 60W charging power and 480Mbps data transfer.

  • Stylish & comfortable: Soft, skin-friendly woven lanyard for all-day wear.

  • Universal compatibility: Works with iPhone (*iPhone 15 or later) & Android devices.

  • Tangle-free convenience: No more messy cables in your bag.

Price and availability

See our QDOS reviews 

Tech Review – chargeasap Connect Pro Magnetic USB-C data cable

In a world of cables there is plenty to pick from and we have tested many our over the years some offer more than others and some less some look better than others and some don’t but is it looks that matter? In some cases that would be a yes but functionality is a key feature for me and good cable that will last unlike others do..

The latest cable now on offer from chargeasap is a pretty cool one offering more than one would expect from a cable, yeah I know reviewing cable and plugs are tedious to a degree because most people just plug it in connect device and that is the end of it there they do not stop and think what else is behind this cable.hmmm..

This cable is magnetic with a built in power reader and interchangeable tips which is handy and what this means in not fussing about plugging in a device although it has got better since USB-C has become more mainstream now however there is still plenty of tech out there with the older ports and will be around for some years to come yet.

chargeasap have thought of this and these also work with the best of charging plugs out there including GaN chargers which we are no stranger to.

There is several things to note with such a cable/product, you can easily swap out the device, so headphones earbuds, tablets laptops and more can be used and the safety feature here is great with the snap /on/off feature, now we all know we have all tripped over a cable at some stage and took the desk with us do not deny it. Now this is a thing of the past.

With a built in LED screen with built in amp reader you can also see that you are connected and with the support of up to 100W to charge an extensive array of devices, including USB-C laptops, phones, tablets, and more. Also take into account this keeps your ports covered and dust free which is another bonus and something for people think about.

Check out the video below for more.

 

chargeasap connect pro magnetic USB-C cable – techbuzzireland

 

Features

  • World’s first magnetic cable featuring a built-in power reader, showcasing real-time power output in watts on a LED screen
  • World’s first magnetic cable with interchangeable tips to support 100W USB-C and 27W Apple Fast charge for lightning devices
  • Supports up to 100W to charge an extensive array of devices, including USB-C laptops, phones, tablets, and more.
  • Supports full 27W Apple Fast charging for lightning devices, a feat previously hindered by Apple chip constraints.
  • With interchangeable tips, you only need one cable to charge all your USB-C, Apple, and Micro USB devices.
  • The new patented 11-pin design, upgraded from 10 pins also delivers the strongest magnetic connection yet, thanks to the use of neodymium magnets—the most powerful magnets known to man.
  • supports USB 2.0 fast data transfer
  • The USB-C cable end that connects to the wall charger enables higher power input and output.
  • Easy To Connect: User-friendly magnetic connection eliminates the need for precise plug insertions, making it easier for individuals with dexterity challenges to connect and disconnect their devices. No more fumbling around to connect your devices, even in the dark.  
  • LED Indicator: Turns on when your device has been connected and is successfully charging
  • No More Accidents: Tripping over and breaking your laptop is a thing of the past, with our Magsafe connector bringing back the Macbook snag-free feature
  • Protect your phone port: from dust and dirt entering. By leaving the tip in there, it will also extend the life of your phone port from the normal wear and tear of cables being inserted and pulled out on a daily basis.   
  • Crafted from high-quality materials with thicker cables, enabling higher current flow for faster charging.
  • 15 year warranty

 

Product Specifications:

  • USB-C Output: 9V 1.67A/ 9V 2A/ 20V 3A/ 20.2V 4.35A/ 20V 5A
  • Apple Output: 9V 3A
  • Micro USB Output: 5V 2.4A

BUY 

Video review