Twelve South Curve Nano Review

The Twelve South Curve Nano is a new simple accessory which is ideal for those who want to keep their hands free and their smartphone at hand at any angle or in portrait or landscape mode.

This is a premium built product which looks well and comes in several colour and portable and being portable in this case is perfect for those that travel like myself and can be used at home or in the office, it is also ideal for your bedside locker or even your kitchen to watch cooking classes and so on without the need to hold your phone keeping your hands free.

For me it is ideal for travel and home use and can be placed beside my laptop where i can look at social media or emails not disrupting my work flow on the laptop I also can use on my bedside locker to watch media which I have a bad habit of and also easy access to interact with social media videos and podcasts etc without the need to pick the phone up.

This as mentioned works in portrait and landscape but also works at angles and with the hinge being solid it can go to any angle and almost 90 degrees depending on how heavy the phone is.

The base has a rubber footing which also keeps it in place and wont mark your desk or locker, overall this is a nice looking simple effective product that is small and light yet robust and not intrusive to your set up in the office or at home. I tested several devices and MagSafe compatible and Qi2 devices all work fine even with cases on and devices not compatible but have cases with MagSafe will also work.

Check the video below for a closer look.

 

Features

  • Holds MagSafe/Qi2 phones securely
  • Adjusts smoothly to any angle
  • Stays stable with anti-slip base
  • Ultra-light and compact

BUY

More Twelve South Reviews 

Video Review

SKULLCANDY’S Method 360 ANC Earbuds Feature Premium sound by Bose

Skullcandy, in partnership with Bose, is breaking  barriers in personal audio with the release of Method 360 ANC – a premium true  wireless earbud engineered for high-quality audio, advanced noise canceling, and  everyday style.  

Designed for those who want it all – sound quality, comfort, and design – without  breaking the bank, this is Skullcandy’s most advanced audio experience to date.  

“This product sets a new standard,” said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing at Skullcandy.  “We’re launching at £99.99 because we want more people to hear what’s next. But  make no mistake – Method 360 ANC belongs in the premium tier.”  

Refined fit, redesigned experience: Method 360 ANC features an all-new slider  charging case with a built-in O-ring clip, upgraded tactile finish, and up to 40 hours of  battery life. The earbuds come with multiple sets of fit fins and gels that leverage licensed technology from Bose for a secure, ultra-comfortable fit and superior noise  isolation.  

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC with Sound by Bose technology is now available globally  at Skullcandy.com (https://www.skullcandy.com/products/method-360-anc) and select  retail locations. Consumers can choose from five unique colorways including Black,  Bone, Primer, Plasma, and Leopard.  

  

Technical Details Include:  

  • Sound By Bose technology – Industry-leading audio tuning and performance.  ● Battery Life – Up to 40 hours when ANC mode is turned off (11 in buds, 29 in case).  Up to 32 hours when ANC mode is turned on (9 in buds, 23 in case).  ● Noise Isolating Fit – Ergonomic, ovalized design provides all-day comfort and a  noise-isolating fit. Three different sized pairs of fit fins and three sets of ear gels,  leveraging licensed technology from Bose, help ensure a perfect fit and block out  unwanted sound.  

  • Adjustable 4-Mic Hybrid Active Noise Canceling – Next-level premium noise  cancellation with customizable Stay-Aware mode options.  
  • Low Latency Audio – Provides an optimal experience for watching videos or  playing games.  
  • Auto On/Connect and Wear Detection  
  • IPX4 Sweat + Water Resistant  
  • Skull-iQ App Compatible – Unlock Method 360 ANC’s full potential with the Skull iQ App. Choose one of 3 preset EQ settings or customize your own, reconfigure the  button functions, adjust your Stay-Aware or ANC modes, and more.  
  • Rapid Charge – A 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of playtime.  ● Clear Voice Smart Mic – Provides a reduction in background noise to ensure calls  are crystal clear.  
  • Spotify Tap Compatible  
  • Preset & Custom EQ Modes  
  • Google Fast Pair  
  • Multipoint Pairing – Pair to multiple devices at once for seamless transitions.  ● Natural Voice Sidetone for Calls – Counteract occlusion, allowing users to hear  their own voice more naturally.  
  • Bluetooth® (v5.3) + LE Audio  

  

Launch Event  

Skullcandy debuted Method 360 ANC on April 15 during an exclusive event at Hall des  Lumières in New York City, where brand partners, top creators, and leading tech and  lifestyle media got a first look.  

The evening featured on-stage appearances by Skullcandy CEO Brian Garofalow,  Bose CMO Jim Mollica, brand visionary Bimma Williams, and skate icon Tony Hawk,  who also headlines the campaign launching alongside the product.  

“Method 360 is the real deal—killer sound, zero hype,” Tony Hawk, skate legend and  Skullcandy brand ambassador.  

See Our Skullcandy reviews

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series announced

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, offering new entry points to the Galaxy ecosystem on a premium tablet design. Equipped with the largest screen yet on the Galaxy Tab S FE series and slimmer bezels that expand its display, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ provides a fun, immersive viewing experience for everything from entertainment to studying and day-to-day tasks. Samsung’s Intelligent Features empower users to get more done with ease, while a slimmer design helps users to achieve their creativity and productivity on the go.

“The new Galaxy Tab S10 FE series brings advanced mobile AI experience and Samsung’s connected ecosystem to even more tablet users, while still offering leading performance and design,” said Changtae Kim, EVP & Head of New Computing R&D Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re confident that the slim bezels and expansive displays, in addition to a whole host of functional improvements, will inspire people to do more, create more, and discover more.”

Stunning Clarity on a Bigger, Vibrant Display

Combining the Galaxy Tab S series’ heritage design with slim bezels, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch display offers immersive entertainment on a screen that’s almost 12% larger than the previous FE+. Smooth visuals enabled by a 90Hz refresh rate and new levels of visibility up to 800 nits HBM on the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series ensure an optimal viewing experience when watching videos and gaming. Vision Booster’s automatic adjustments enhance brightness and visibility even in ever-changing outdoor environments while blue-light emissions are safely reduced to minimise eye strain, meeting every unique viewing need.

Robust Performance in a Portable Design

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series boosts productivity when working or studying, and delivers fast, smooth gameplay without interruption. Performance upgrades enable the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series to help users switch effortlessly between multiple apps when they are being creative, allowing for improved multitasking. And when capturing everyday moments in the classroom or in workspaces, a newly upgraded 13MP high resolution rear camera produces clear and vivid photos.

These versatile experiences, from powerful work to seamless play, accompany users everywhere they go. Now more than 4% lighter than its predecessor, Galaxy Tab S10 FE is even easier to carry around, while the Galaxy S10 Tab FE series offers hassle-free storage and mobility at home, on campus, in the workplace and elsewhere with its slim design. Engineered for resilience and durability to withstand the elements, the FE series also comes with the same IP68 rating as the newest Galaxy Tab S10 series.

Advanced Features Unleash Potential

Building on Samsung’s legacy of delivering premium experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are the first models in the FE series to come equipped with cutting-edge AI capabilities right out of the box, fueling user productivity.

  • Fan-favourite Circle to Search with Google allows you to search what you see on your tablet without switching apps. Quickly get the info you need, translate text on screen or get homework help with step-by-step explanations – all on one large screen.
  • Samsung Notes features like Solve Math for quick calculations of handwriting and text, and Handwriting Help to tidy up notes easily, make notetaking easier than ever so users can stay focused in the moment.
  • AI assistants are instantly launched with a single tap of the Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboard. Plus, AI assistants can be customised based on users’ preferences for a more personalised experience.
  • An upgraded Object Eraser lets users effortlessly remove unwanted objects from photos, with automatic suggestions for quick and easy edits.
  • Newly introduced Best Face ensures perfect group photos by selecting and combining the best expressions and features.
  • Auto Trim brings cherished moments to life by sifting through multiple videos to seamlessly compile highlight reels.
  • The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series also serves as the perfect canvas for creativity with pre-loaded apps and tools including LumaFusion Goodnotes  Clip Studio Paint  and more, alongside other spotlight apps like Noteshelf 3 Sketchbook and Pictures.

For an even more intuitive AI experience, the FE series seamlessly integrates with other Samsung Galaxy devices. Similar to the Galaxy Tab S10 series, users can access a comprehensive overview of their home status with the Home Insight widget dashboard and 3D Map View feature. Summarised status updates of SmartThings-enabled devices give users peace of mind when out and about.

Security Your Way

As with any Galaxy device, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series is fortified by strong security, Samsung Knox, Samsung Galaxy’s defense-grade, multi-layer security platform built to safeguard critical information and protect against vulnerabilities with end-to-end hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection.

Availability & Pricing

Starting April 2nd, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE (starting from €599 RRP) and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ (starting from €769 RRP) will be available in 5G and Wi-Fi variants and offered in three colours: Grey, Silver and Blue.

Customers who purchase a Samsung Galaxy Tab FE or a Tab FE+ from Samsung.com and participating retailers can also claim an AI Book Cover Keyboard Slim worth up to €199

For more information about the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series, please visit: [https://www.samsung.com/ie/tablets/].

See our Samsung Reviews

 

Specifications

  Galaxy Tab S10 FE (10.9-inch) Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ (13.1-inch)
Display 10.9-inch, LCD

(Up to to 90Hz)

13.1-inch, LCD

(Up to 90Hz)

* Measured diagonally as a full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners.
Dimensions & Weight* 254.3 x 165.8 x 6.0 mm,

497 g (Wi-Fi), 500 g (5G)

​300.6 x 194.7 x 6.0 mm​,

664 g (Wi-Fi), 668 g (5G)

*Accuracy of numbers may vary depending on measurements used.
Camera 13 MP Rear Camera

12 MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera

AP* Exynos 1580​
Memory & Storage* 12 GB + 256 GB​

8 GB + 128 GB​

MicroSD up to 2TB

* Available storage capacity is subject to preloaded software.

Battery / Charging 8,000 mAh / 45W​ 10,090 mAh / 45W​
*Typical value of battery capacity tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.

**Wired charging compatible with QC2.0 and AFC.

***45W Power Adapter sold separately. Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables.

OS* Android 15
Network and Connectivity* 5G (Sub-6)*, Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi Direct Bluetooth® v 5.3
*5G services are only supported in 5G network enabled locations. Requires optimal 5G connection. Actual speed may vary depending on market, carrier, and user environment.

**Availability of 5G model varies by market and carrier.

*** Wi-Fi 6 network availability may vary by market, network provider and user environment. Requires optimal connection. Will require a Wi-Fi 6 router.

Sound Dual Speaker
S Pen S Pen (BLE not supported) in-box
Security Fingerprint (Power Key)
SIM Dual SIM (1 Physical + 1 eSIM)
Water Resistance IP68
* IP68 Rating: Conducted under lab test conditions. Water resistant in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes and protected from dust, dirt, and sand. Rinse residue/dry after wet. Not advised for beach or pool use. Water and dust resistance of your device is not permanent and may diminish over time.
Accessories Book Cover Keyboard

Book Cover Keyboard Slim

Smart Book Cover

Anti-reflecting Screen Protector

 

Bandletic R-Lite Apple Watch Band Review

The Bandletic R-Lite Apple Watch Band is one to check out if you need a new strap for your Apple watch, many people just stick to the one band but many like me have quite a collection of bands which is nice to change out over the course of a year.

This band is two tone and skin friendly and looks good and clips on and off with wase there is a buckle feature on the strap which gives it more security over just the usual magnetic wrap around we see lots of out there today.

They call this a dual security system which works well and their magnets are also stronger than others I have tested before.

The strap is comfortable to wear even if you are into sports and remains secure with upgraded silicon it also allows your skin breathe better.

The strap will suit many of the Apple watch range and there is a selection of colours and other offerings from the brand and affordable.

Check out the video review below for a hands on look..

 

 

  • Dual Security System Design: Bandletic magnetic watch band for men combines a magnetic and Pin-and-Tuck closure, equipped with upgraded N54 magnets (20%-50% stronger). This unique dual-safety design makes sure that your smart watch will stay securely in place and won’t fall off, whether you’re running, working out, doing intense training, or enjoying outdoor activities like camping and hiking
  • Premium Comfort & Durability: Compatible with Apple Watch Bands, these loop straps are made of upgraded silicone, not only soft, comfortable and skin-friendly but also waterproof. You can wear it comfortably all day long, be it in rainy weather or at various occasions like workout, office work, parties, or business meetings. It’s highly scratch-resistant, wear-resistant, and easy to clean, maintaining its pristine look even with regular use
  • Stylish Design & Ideal for Gifting: This athletic and lightweight sport band seamlessly integrates sports, functionality, and fashion. It also comes in multiple colors, including dual-tone options like black/orange, black/pink, white/pink and classic colors such as black, starlight, etc. It can effortlessly match any outfit or occasion, showcasing your personality and charm. Housed in an elegant package, it is an ideal gift for your husband, wife, parents, and friends
  • Wide Compatibility & Adjustable Sizes: This smart watch band fits for All Apple Watch models, compatible with Apple Watch Ultra/Ultra 2 (49mm), Series 10 (46mm 42mm), Series 9 8 7 (45mm 41mm), Series SE 6 5 4 (44mm 40mm), Series 3 2 1 (42mm 38mm). Available in sizes suitable for wrists from 5.5 inches to 8.2 inches (140mm – 210mm). Just check the size on the back of your watch to ensure a perfect fit
  • Easy to Install & Safe to Wear: Compared to traditional fully magnetic ultra watch band, this band features a pin-tuck closure design. It offers the same quick and convenient wearing experience as traditional magnetic bands, yet is more secure and stable. The adjustable holes on the strap not only enhance breathability but also add flexibility in adjustment. For those who frequently change watch bands and are fond of sports and fitness, this is the perfect choice

BUY

Other watch strap reviews

Video Review

First Look – HiFiMan Svanar Wireless Jr and LE premium earbuds

Premium audio company HiFiMan who are known for exceptional products like Planar headphones and other high quality audio products have some new earbuds for us to check out and they are the Svanar Wireless Jr and Svanar Wireless LE but stick around we also have some more but these pairs are quite remarkable and we will be checking these out over the coming weeks with lots more exclusive tech to us.

If like me and are a huge earbuds and headphones fan these are something for the real audiophile, having review the most earbuds and headphones here in Ireland these are not your typical earbuds as they are tailored for real audiophiles which I have never claimed to be but I do know a good pair of earbuds from trash, we have reviewed several of HiFiMans products in the past and at it has been some time so we look forward to seeing what is on offer here today.

If you have any questions feel free to ask as usual and stay tuned for more in the coming weeks.

 

Svanar Wireless Jr – techbuzzireland

HiFIMan Svanar Wireless Jr

  • Warmth and Luxury-DSP Algorithm Optimization, Independent Amplifier and Topology Diaphragm HD Bluetooth→DSP Algorithm Optimization→ Amplifier Module→Topology Diaphragm
  • Independent Class AB Balanced Headphone Amplifier Module Output Spec: 10mW@32Q,THD+N: 0.019% Maximum Output: 50mW@32Q,THD+N: 1%
  • HIFIMAN Topology Diaphragm The “Topology Diaphragm” refers to a diaphragm that features a special Nano particle coating applied to its surface. The result is a more natural and detailed sound than what is typically achieved with True Wireless earphones. The idea behind the new Topology Diaphragm was inspired by Dr.Fang Bian’s Ph.D. thesis that states, “Different Nano materials have differing structures and each of those materials have its own properties.”Therefore, by carefully controlling the diaphragm surface structure we can yield different results that are superior in acoustic performance to a degree previously unobtainable.
  • Support LDAC HD Bluetooth Format; Lossless Sound Quality Transmission
  • ANC Deep Noise Cancellation: Immerse yourself in your own world of sound. The microphone accurately identifies noise, generating a reverse signal that reduces noise up to -35dB.
  • 8hrs Uninterrupted listening; 32hrs Including the battery life of the charging case. Earbuds may be charged up to three times before needing to recharge the battery case.
  • Charging case designed to accommodate most silicone tips, including larger sizes. Most true wireless earphones cannot be charged when using larger-size silicone tips. The Svanar Wireless increases the internal space of the charging case, so there is no need to replace the silicone tips repeatedly when charging the earbuds. Inbox comes with 8 pairs of silicone tips.
  • BUY 
Svanar Wireless LE – techbuzzireland

HiFiMan Svanar Wireless LE

  • SVANAR WIRELESS Light Luxury Version: Ultimate HIFI TWS: Hymalaya DAC and Headphone Amp drive the Topology Diaphragm driver ★HYMALAYA R2R DAC developed by HIFIMAN received the 2022 VGP Gold Technology Award (Japan)
  • Hymalaya R2R Custom Ladder DAC+ Headphone Amplifier Module: Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.52%(-60dB), 0.005%(-2dB); Undistorted Output: 54mW @16Ω, 45mW @32Ω; Max Output: @32R 1%=63mW
  • HIFIMAN Topology Diaphragm: The “Topology Diaphragm” refers to a diaphragm that features a special Nano particle coating applied to its surface. The result is a more natural and detailed sound than what is typically achieved with True Wireless earphones. The idea behind the new Topology Diaphragm was inspired by Dr.Fang Bian’s Ph.D. thesis that states, “Different Nano materials have differing structures and each of those materials have its own properties.”Therefore, by carefully controlling the diaphragm surface structure we can yield different results that are superior in acoustic performance to a degree previously unobtainable.
  • ANC Deep Noise Cancellation. Immerse yourself in your own world of sound: The microphone accurately identifies noise, generating a reverse signal that reduces noise up to -35dB
  • Charging case designed to accommodate most silicone tips, including larger sizes: Most true wireless earphones cannot be charged when using larger-size silicone tips. The Svanar Wireless increases the internal space of the charging case, so there is no need to replace the silicone tips repeatedly when charging the earbuds. Inbox comes with 8 pairs of silicone tips.
  • 7hrs Uninterrupted listening; 28hrs Including the battery life of the charging case: Earbuds may be charged up to three times before needing to recharge the battery case.
  • Touch Operations

BUY 

Unboxing Video

SKULLCANDY Packs Premium, Easy-To-Use Features Into All-New Collection: Rail ANC And Rail True Wireless Earbuds

Introducing two new True Wireless earbud models, Rail ANC boasting 4-mic Active Noise Cancelling technology and Rail True Wireless Earbuds, this line distills the best of Skullcandy. Offering premium features such as hands-free voice control via Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology®, Multipoint Pairing and Clear Voice Smart Mic, along with a redesigned ergonomic fit and other upgrades, all at an unbeatable sub-$100 price point. Rail ANC (£99.99 MSRP) and Rail (£69.99 MSRP) are available globally, exclusively on Skullcandy.com. 

Rail ANC and Rail present users with an elevated true wireless experience, enabling hands-free voice commands in five language options plus the ability to become smarter over time when upgraded features are released via the Skull-iQ App. A streamlined listening experience is further enhanced by multipoint pairing and capacitive touch controls that can be customized through the app. Personal Sound enables users to tune their audio to optimal levels based on their unique hearing profile. Rail ANC presents users with four-mic hybrid and adjustable active noise cancellation for a more reliable, easier to activate experience and also offers wireless charging. 

“When we sat down to conceptualize the Rail family, our goal was to pack the best of what Skullcandy offers into a sleek, innovative form factor,” said Jason Luthman, Director of Global Product Management, Skullcandy. “The premium Rail collection is fully-loaded with mind-blowing audio and the freshest features competing with the highest-end true wireless offerings on the market, at a price point our fans will appreciate.” 

Both Rail ANC and Rail were designed using cutting-edge technology, leveraging virtual reality to create a universally ergonomic fit, providing the most stable, comfortable and best-fitting experiences on the market. The accompanying charging case is equally streamlined and minimal. Rail ANC is available in a True Black colorway while Rail is offered in True Black and Bone. 

Additional details surrounding Rail ANC and Rail True Wireless Earbuds include: 

Rail ANC True Wireless Earbuds – £99.99 MSRP 

  • Up to 38 Hours of Battery Life (ANC off)1 + Rapid Charge and Wireless Charging – Listen longer with 10 hours of battery life in the earbuds and 28 hours in the charging case ● IP55 Sweat, Water and Dust Resistant – Go on any adventure without missing a beat ● Adjustable 4-Mic Active Noise Canceling – Actively monitors the surrounding environment to filter out external noise, maintaining a crisp audio quality 
  • Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology® – Issue simple, hands-free voice commands to turn on and adjust Stay-Aware Mode, activate device assistant, launch Spotify Tap, Take Photo and more ● Over-the-Air Updates – Earbuds become smarter over time when new upgradable features are released via the Skull-iQ App 
  • Multipoint Pairing – Seamlessly pair to two devices at once, regardless of platform or manufacturer 
  • Personal Sound by Mimi® – Tune your audio experience to your unique hearing ability by taking a real-time audio test to create a Personal Sound Profile for optimized audio levels ● Built-In Tile™ Finding Technology – If earbuds is misplaced, simply “ring” it from the Tile app ● Clear Voice Smart Mic – Experience a reduction in background noise to ensure calls are crystal clear 
  • Preset & Custom EQ Modes – Adjust your EQ or create your own custom EQ modes
  • Customizable Button Functions – Personalize your earbuds by customizing your controls via Skull-iQ app 
  • True Wireless via Bluetooth® 5.2 – The latest in Bluetooth® technology offering efficiency improvements and faster pairing capabilities 

Rail True Wireless Earbuds – £69.99 MSRP 

  • Up to 42 Hours of Battery Life + Rapid Charge – Listen longer with 8 hours of battery life in the earbuds and 34 hours in the charging case + With Rapid Charge, 10 minutes of charge equals 2 hours of playtime 
  • IP55 Sweat, Water and Dust Resistant – Go on any adventure without missing a beat ● Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology® – Issue simple, hands-free voice commands to turn on and adjust Stay-Aware Mode, activate device assistant, launch Spotify Tap, Take Photo and more ● Over-the-Air Updates – Update earbuds via the Skull-iQ App to add new features for enhanced functionality and to extend the life of the earbuds 
  • Personal Sound – Tune your audio experience to your unique hearing ability by taking a real-time audio test to create a Personal Sound Profile for optimized audio levels ● Multipoint Pairing – Seamlessly pair to two devices at once, regardless of platform or manufacturer 
  • Built-In Tile™ Finding Technology – If earbuds is misplaced, simply “ring” it from the Tile app ● Clear Voice Smart Mic – Experience a reduction in background noise to ensure calls are crystal clear 
  • Preset & Custom EQ Modes – Adjust your EQ or create your own custom EQ modes ● Customizable Button Functions – Personalize your earbuds by customizing your controls ● True Wireless via Bluetooth® 5.2 – The latest in Bluetooth® technology offering efficiency improvements and faster pairing capabilities 

Swappie reveals its first ever premium product, the Premium Series

Swappie, Europe’s leading online destination for buying and selling refurbished iPhones, has announced today a new addition to its professionally refurbished offer: The Premium Series. As its first ever premium product, this new line closes the gap in the current market by bringing a first class refurbished smartphone experience to everyone, making it easier than ever for consumers to do the right thing for the planet.

The Premium Series, which collects devices that are cosmetically flawless, fully functional with 100% capacity battery, will be available in all countries Swappie operates in from today. The highlight of Swappie’s Premium Series is its carbon footprint which, like the other refurbished devices offered by Swappie, generates 78% less emissions than a new smartphone, meaning that from today consumers can own an even more perfect version of technology without contributing to the vast amount of e-waste generated as a result of smartphone production.

“We’ve always made it imperative to listen to our customers, and over the years with this approach and through constant improvements in our offering we’ve gotten closer to them and made refurbished electronics a little bit more mainstream. But we knew this wasn’t enough, that there was a group of consumers who would only choose refurbished if the phone had pristine aesthetic conditions or a battery with full capacity. Even guided by the wish of doing the right thing for the planet, the lack of this solution stopped them from making this choice. That’s why we’re bringing Swappie’s Premium Series to the market, because it represents a class above new which will make it easier for discerning consumers to incorporate the circular economy into their everyday lives’ comments Casper Andersen, Premium Series Lead at Swappie.

A recent survey commissioned by Swappie and conducted by market research company Kantar shed light on the reasons why some people are still buying a new smartphone over a refurbished one with over a third of consumers (34%) citing battery health, followed by the functional quality of a new phone (28%) and lack of signs of wear (20%). Swappie’s refurbished Premium Series addresses directly these concerns as it is essentially new, offering 100% capacity battery, no sign of wear, full operational capacity and, as with all Swappie iPhones sold, it comes with a 12-month Swappie warranty. Additionally,  the Premium Series produces a fraction of the e-waste traditionally associated with a new smartphone, so it is also a better choice for the planet.

Swappie CEO and co-founder Sami Marttinen said ‘We are passionate about creating a world that is more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive. Our customers sit at the heart of everything we do, and we are determined to make using our services as easy and pleasurable as possible. Swappie is in a unique position as all our refurbishment work is done in our own facilities in Europe, we own our own supply chain, and we offer benefits like warranties and returns. At every stage we can ensure best practices are maintained, guaranteeing high-quality products that are fully functional. This is vital in building long-term trust in Swappie. Smartphones don’t have an expiry date and we’re hoping that adding the Premium Series to our beloved product line will help even more consumers feel as comfortable buying a refurbished iPhone as they would a used car.’

‘The manufacture of new smartphones produces over 100 million tonnes of CO2 a year while e-waste is the fastest growing form of waste on the planet. 85-95% of the emissions connected to smartphones are released during manufacture, including the extraction of raw materials, shipping and the first year of life. Earlier this year, Brussels proposed legislation to promote consumers’ right to repair which is a step in the right direction. However, we need to go further to make sure any practices which limit independent repair through processes like serialization, restrictions on the distribution of parts and access to manuals are prohibited. Consumers should be able to seek affordable, quality repair from the provider of their choice and under no circumstances should product functionalities be degraded because repair was done outside of the network of original manufacturers. This is the only way to effectively promote repair over replacement’ commented Jori Ahvonen, CTO at Swappie

Premium Series handsets are limited in number, but the Premium grade is not limited to a specific model. Premium Series is available from today at www.swapppie.com

Tech Review – Benks Infinity Basic Tablet Stand for iPads and more.

Many of us have more than one device to play with or work on be it at home or in the office but having that second device like a tablet or phone is sat beside you on the table which can get in the way but what if there was a premium product that solved that and kept it out of the way but in a position to use it and the product looks good on your desk? Well here is the answer right here from Benks who have some really nice innovative products and we have test some of these before which you will get a glimpse of in this video or by searching Benks on site.

Boasting a solid aluminum construction and designed to be easily portable, Benks Infinity Basic Pad Stand is the perfect accessory to transform your Pad into an efficient workstation. This foldable stand will keep your Pad secure, offering compatibility with all Pads.

As the company states the solid build of the product alone and design gives this a leap over your typical plastic made offerings on the market and this can not only hold your tablet you can use a phone a phone or tablet if it is small for example or your iPad if you have one which I do not personally own at the minute but that might change yet.

This can swivel from the base and again something you do not see too often and is more a fixed option you tend to find in stores etc and this can also be folded away which means portability again unlike others which are again a fixed alternative and makes it ideal to fit in your travel bag or bring it to your office or even have on your bedside locker giving you easy access to whatever device you may use and for me I could also put my chromebook on it and it remains super stable and another way it can be used and nicely raised and easy to access and use as normal if working on two laptops at a time which can be the case.

Top top it off it allows heat dissipation on the back unlike other stands which would be a solid piece so what is there not to like about this? Check out the video below for more.

Ideally this is for someone who wants to have clean desk who uses more than one device and have them at hand to do other things on another device such as social media emails and more and do it in style.

BUY

Video Review

Mercku to Showcase Premium Mesh System M6s at CES 2023

Mercku, the Canadian smart home brand, today announces it will reveal details of the soon-to-launch M6s Wi-Fi mesh system, as well as Mercku Labs, a new B2B service helping brands to bring their connected devices visions to life, at CES 2023 in January.

The Mercku M6s is set to build on the innovation achieved in its previous M6a Plus system, featuring a high-performance combination of a premium router and two of the industry’s smallest Wi-Fi 6 nodes, forming the Wi-Fi backbone for homes of any size or configuration.

Mercku’s M6s Mesh System future-proofs next-generation Wi-Fi and smart home automation. The system intersects proprietary hardware and Mercku’s award-winning design with next-generation Wi-Fi 6 innovations, supporting smart homes with hundreds of devices and substantial bandwidth requirements. Discreet heat dissipation elements and soft fabric outer casing ensures maximum system performance and device longevity, blending elegant design with intuitive functionality.

Erik Ackner, President of Mercku Europe, comments, “CES is the flagship event for new technologies, making it the perfect stage to tease details of our latest launch, the M6s. We look forward to meeting customers and attendees in Las Vegas, and invite people to visit our stand to experience this incredible technology for themselves.”

Mercku will also showcase its new B2B service, Mercku Labs, which will support other companies on their journey to building successful mesh systems. Mercku Labs lets partner companies leverage Mercku’s extensive experience with Networking and IoT Product Design and Development to bring their product idea to market. The service allows operators from various industries to shorten the go-to-market time by accelerating the design and build process and developing custom integrations with mobile applications, cloud systems or the operator’s own solutions.

Erik adds, “Mercku Labs is the natural progression for us in realizing our goal of Building the Next Era of Connectivity. With our extensive technical knowledge and experience, we’re perfectly positioned to support other companies as they look to build their own connected visions.”