Trevor Daugherty is the Senior Editor of 9to5Toys. Since joining in 2014, he’s specialized in product reviews, exclusive discounts and 9to5’s New Toy of the Day. Contact him direct at trevor@9to5mac.com.
Immersit has a plan to bring an IMAX-like experience to your home theater for a fraction of the cost. The company just launched a new Kickstarter project in an attempt to sell its new 4D motion motion sim for couches. While the idea seems a little crazy, the execution appears to be on point.
By adding four motorized lifts to each corner of your couch, a brain can augment your seat in accordance with the movie or game on the screen. You have to see it action to really appreciate what’s happening here. Head below for a full demo video.
PowerVision, an industrial drone and robotics company out of China, has released details on a new consumer-focused model with a unique design. The PowerEgg drone is shaped much like its name suggests. By opting for a vertical oval-shaped design, PowerVision has focused on creating a product that it claims flies with less resistance. One of the coolest features is how the wings automatically extend from the body during flight. Head below for a cool video detailing how it functions.
After a long string of new Xbox One bundles last fall, Microsoft is back today with a fresh Quantum Break-inspired console. The new Special Edition bundle is set to be released on March 29th with a Cirrus White design. A matching Xbox One and controller will ship alongside full-game downloads of Quantum Break and Alan Wake plus access to The Signal and Writer DLCs. The previous-generation title will be playable via Xbox One’s Backwards Compatibility.
This RAVPower 20,100mAh Power Bank features a 3A USB-C port, dual-USB ports with 2.4A outputs and Quick Charge 2.0 capabilities. There is enough juice here to replenish an iPhone 6/s nearly seven times, large Android devices five times and an iPad Air 2 more than once. Additionally, you’ll be able to power a 12-inch MacBook, making this a solid all-in-one option for any technology enthusiast. Nearly 300 Amazon customers have rated this power bank 4.7/5 stars.
If you’re in the market for an on-the-go charging solution, we recommend grabbing one of these power banks from uNu. It has a 5,000mAh capacity, which is enough to power an iPhone 6/s twice and the larger Plus more than once. You’ll find a 2.1A USB port and built-in LED display to show how much juice is left, as well. uNu includes a 2-in-1 MFi Apple-Certified Lightning + microUSB cable for charging nearly any portable device. Rated 4.4/5 stars by nearly 300 Amazon reviewers.
Pop Art fans! You’ll love this new Andy Warhol-inspired coffee table book called Where’s Warhol that just hit Amazon today for pre-orders. Follow along as this mid-century take on the popular Where’s Waldo formula brings Andy through 12 “iconic moments” in Art history.
We’re big proponents of standing desks here at 9to5Toys. As someone who works from home, I’m well aware of the challenges that come with sitting all day. While there are plenty of options on the market, prices have largely kept this product category out of the impulse purchase range.
Recently, we told you about NextDesk’s latest motorized creation that retails for $447. Today we’ve spotted a new Indiegogo project that cuts the price tag and offers a modular solution for nearly any setup. The OMBEE features a unique design with an eye on customization. Its price comes in at less than an iPad mini, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a more affordable solution.
Rocket League, the incredibly popular Indie game for PS4, is finally making its way to Xbox One next week. Gamers will be able to hit the pitch on February 17th with the added bonus of three free DLCs at launch.
3Doodler has enjoyed massive success with its crowdfunding projects, raising over $1.5 million last time around. The second generation improved on the original with a slimmer design and stronger build. From the start, it always seemed like 3Doodler’s destiny to create a kid-friendly version of its pen. Now, it’s coming to fruition.
The new 3Doodler Start is clearly focused on a younger user with its colorful design. Looking further, the latest rendition offers a safe way for kids to experiment with 3D printing. Head below for more plus pre-order details.
You may have heard of BearTek before. It launched its first-generation Smart Gloves a while back as a way to control your smartphone with built-in sensors. Last Friday night, the guys behind BearTek made an appearance on Shark Tank and launched version 2.0 on Indiegogo. We won’t spoil the episode for you, but we’ll just say Mr. Wonderful had his doubts.
So what does the second generation add? In addition to the original model’s support for iPhone/Android, BearTek has introduced compatibility with GoPro plus “user-defined touchpoints” and a new developer kit. Full details below.
GoPro has enjoyed a massive amount of success over the last few years as its name has become synonymous with action cameras. Because of that popularity, the accessory market has boomed as well. We’ve already rounded up the best gear for your GoPro in a separate post. Now the question is, how do you manage it all? We recently got our hands on the new Kelly Slater Action Pack Bundle from Incase. The iconic surfer hooked up with one of our favorite brands to release a kit with GoPro users in mind. Head below for a full breakdown.
It was just a couple of months back when we told you about LEGO’s reincarnation of the famous Ghostbusters Firehouse. Today, our favorite toy-maker is back with another set focused on the classic series. This new kit, which is based on this summer’s upcoming redux, features minifigs based on Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy plus a perfect reproduction of their ghost-busting wagon. Head below for more info and a full gallery.
BQ, a Spanish device-maker, has finally lifted the veil on a new Ubuntu-powered tablet that also doubles as a standalone PC. While the original Auquarius M10 tablet was released a while back, the new Ubuntu version is set to launch in the 2nd quarter of this year. Its ability to operate on-the-go or at home will likely strike a chord with fans of the software. More details below.
It comes with a Bluetooth earpiece, dual-port USB charger, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This kit allows you to take calls through your stereo system while also charging your device. Early reviews are positive.
The Draplin Design Company is behind some of the biggest and most well-known looks in America. From brands like Nike, Ford, and Patagonia to Obama’s campaign, Aaron Draplin has been pumping out iconic designs for years. Now, he’s compiled all of his best work into a 300-page coffee table book – Pretty Much Everything – with full color examples and commentary.
Two of the biggest names in consumer technology have released new renditions of popular digital cameras with a focus on 4K video. These fresh products from Sony and Canon have $1,150 and $5,999 price tags, respectively. These are high-end cameras for certain. Head below for full details on the new Sony α6300 and Canon EOS-1D X Mark II.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and it’s time to seriously consider what kind of gift you’re going to get your girlfriend or wife this year. Sure, chocolates and jewelry are always a viable option but this year it’s time to step outside the box a bit. But still stay inside the lines.
Adult coloring books were a huge hit in 2015. If you didn’t snatch one up as a Christmas gift, now is the time to give one to the important person in your life. Aside from the artistic value, this type of activity is a great stress-reliever and way to mentally relax after a long day.
These aren’t your typical Garfield or Disney activity books. Each one is filled with unique designs that are more Van Gogh than Melissa & Doug. At $5-$15 per book, it’s an ideal and fun gift for that special person in your life. Head below for our top picks.
It’s pretty hard these days to come up with an original idea. The internet is flooded with real, conceptual and on-the-way products that fill nearly every void in our lives. Evidently, for a guy named Max Braun, he found a need that couldn’t be met. After setting out to find a better bathroom mirror, he came to the conclusion that this product category has largely been untouched by the Internet of Things.
So what did he do? He built a pretty sweet two-way mirror with a built-in display that shows the latest info from Google Now. With a mixture of Android and assorted APIs, he found his way to a surprisingly polished product. More details and a gallery below.
This kit includes the Raspberry Pi 2 Model B microcomputer, a clear case, Wi-Fi adapter, pre-loaded 8GB SD card, a HDMI cable and a handful of other accessories to get you started. The standard Raspberry Pi bundle can be somewhat intimidating, but this offering provides everything needed. Vilros provides a one-year warranty, as well. Need more convincing? The Vilros Raspberry Pi 2 kit is rated an impressive 4.8/5 stars by nearly 1,800 Amazon reviewers.
Inateck via Amazon offers its 36W 4-port USB Desktop Charger w/ Smart Stand for $14.99. Applying coupon code CXG3YQUW drops the final price to $10.99 with free shipping for Prime members or on orders of $35+. That’s a savings of $29 off the original listing, nearly 30% less than the regular going rate and the lowest current price we can find. This 4-port desktop charger is an excellent companion for your desk. Aside from offering 2.4A of charging speed to your devices, it has a built-in stand for display a phone or tablet. Rated 4.1/5 stars by nearly 300 Amazon reviewers.
Before you head on to the rest of today’s USB power deals, be sure to swing by our previous Lightning Cable roundup featuring notable deals on Anker’s Powerline cables.
Just when you thought we’ve reached peak Star Wars: The Force Awakens, this morning has brought news of a fresh LEGO game based on the recently released film. The upcoming title will be available on Xbox One, PS4, Wii U and a handful of other platforms this summer. Head below for pre-order details (including a special discount for Prime members), a full look at the trailer and a gallery of screenshots.
The Google Play Store offers Thomas Was Alone for $0.20. That’s down from the usual going rate of $5.50 at the Amazon App Store, its previous sale mention of $1 and is lowest price we can currently find. Over 4,300 Google Play reviewers have left a collective 4.6/5 star rating.
This simplistic platform-style title takes you through over 100 levels of unique gameplay. Aside from winning a BAFTA award in 2013, it was also nominated for a handful of other awards as well.
Meet Thomas, a curious rectangle, and help him unravel the mysteries of his existence in a wonderfully strange world. Experience 100 levels of award-winning platform gameplay and take part in an emotional story narrated by Danny Wallace.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens has collected nearly 2 billion dollars at the box office since it was released in December. It’s also been the topic of many collectible toys and memorabilia, as well. We’ve seen some pretty sweet LEGO sets and custom-builds, aside from a number of other nifty collectables. Perhaps no character in the new Star Wars flick has been the beneficiary of as many real life recreations as the adorable BB-8. Today, we’ve spotted a new life-size aluminum floor lamp that brings all the fun of BB-8 to your living room. Best of all? You can buy it today…
Kick off for Super Bowl 50 is in less than one week, but there is still time to upgrade your home theater setup for the big game. We’ve rounded up some of the best deals available on HDTVs and soundbars to make your house the place to be this Sunday. Down below you’ll find our favorite deals and a full breakdown on which products we’d opt for in our own home.
Prime members: the newest batch of Kindle First books for February has arrived. In case you’re not familiar: this program allows subscribers to Amazon’s two-day shipping service early access to new upcoming Kindle books ahead of their release date for free (Reg. $6).
Head over to the Kindle First page to view the six new titles that have been chosen for November. Prime members can then download one of the six titles to a Kindle device or to the free iOS/Android app. Not a Prime member? You can still pick up a Kindle First release for $1.99. Either way, your selected title becomes a permanent addition to your library. Grab a free trial with access to a number of perks: two-day shipping, early access to lightning deals, and more.
Amazon has kicked off its $5 Digital HD Movie sale, discounting a slew of popular titles by up to 75%. For comparison, Amazon typically rents these movies for $5 but today you can permanently add them to your collection for that price. Amazon Instant Video is available on a large number of devices, including iOS/Android, gaming consoles, and hundreds of HDTVs. See the entire list here.
Next up, Amazon and Walmart are offering a handful of Blu-ray movies for $5. The former offers free shipping for Prime members or on orders of $35+ while the latter has free in-store pick up.
NextDesk is not new to the game when it comes to standing desks. The benefits of not sitting in your chair all day have been well documented by now. However, up until the last year prices were generally too high for most consumers. The latest project from NextDesk aims to change all that by serving as a suitable add-on to nearly any existing setup.
Just add the CrossOver workstation to a table or desk and you’ll have an elevated space in no time. This isn’t just a stationary solution. It ships with a built-in motor that can raise and lower the table to your exact specifications plus dedicated spaces for a keyboard or other accessories. For another $50 you can add the Programmable Memory Controller that remembers your desired height to work at. Additional options include a dual monitor brackets and the option for recycled aluminum instead of steel.
The CrossOver is available in six wood finishes with three different colors of metal for the arms and legs. You can pre-order today with a $50 down payment, NextDesk expects to begin shipping in late March. Prices start at $447 and go up from there depending on features and finishes.
The NYC souvenir market is about to get shook up by an impressive Kickstarter campaign. Two design firms out of New York, AJSNY and TO+WN design, have launched an intriguing project that promises to deliver incredibly detailed 1:5000-scale replica models of New York City. Virtually every building, skyscraper, landmark and outdoor space is represented across across 200 tiles. Just wait until you see the entire metropolis put together…
It seems like we’ve been inundated with Bluetooth speaker offerings over the last year. Even worse, each new release seems to be a redesign of another model already on the market. Finding a way to standout from the crowd is becoming increasingly difficult as established brands are seeing hundreds of new names enter the space.
Fluance, an audio company up in Ontario, has released a new addition to its line-up of hi-fi equipment called the Fi70 High Fidelity Music System. Instead of going the route of traditional portable speakers, it has opted for an all-in-one system that mixes mid-century looks with modern technology. You’re either going to love or hate the design…
Remember Aereo? That clever online service that allowed users anywhere to enjoy live and time-shifted streams of over-the-air television stations from nearly any internet-connected device? The one that was shut-down by the Supreme Court over copyright rules that were made long before the internet was a thing? Yeah, those guys are back with a new service that is threatening to shake up big names like Comcast and Time Warner.
Starry is an intriguing new take on Internet services. By using a sophisticated “millimeter waves and proprietary technology” that in theory could open up broadband to previously un-reachable locales. Chet Kanojia, the founder of Aereo and Starry, aims to unleash this service across the United States with an eye on giving consumers more choices. Full details below.
Sony has announced its selection of free PlayStation Plus Games for February. This month you’ll be able to grab six titles as a part of this promotion. Head below for the full lot.
February is right around the corner and Microsoft has announced the latest Games with Gold titles for next month. As always, Xbox Live members can grab four games for free as a part of this promotion. Head below for full details.
The Super Bowl is right around the corner and the hype has already started as commercials are beginning to leak early. This morning, Amazon revealed its first ever Super Bowl commercial starring Alec Baldwin and Dan Marino planning their big party. It’s pretty clever and Alexis, Amazon’s virtual reality assistant, makes an appearance via the Echo speaker.
This virtual box set includes the first four titles in the Contamination series: Zero, The Onset, Crossroads, and Wasteland.
The infection has begun, ravaging the American Southwest and leaving a chaos in its wake. In this new world, there will be last meal, no dying wish. The only reward left is to survive another day…
We’ve seen our fair share of intriguing e-Bike designs over the last year as this product category has expanded. Some have been more robust, while others have had a more industrial feel. Today, we’ve noticed a new e-Bike out of Germany that blends this emerging technology with a classic design.
The Freygeist e-Bike could easily be confused with a traditional bicycle on the road. Personally, that’s what I like so much about it. The bigger question is, does it have a minimal price tag?
It’s been a good week for toy enthusiasts. We’ve already detailed upcoming releases for LEGO and Razor. Now, NERF is shooting into the mix with a few fresh blasters. The upcoming Double-Dealer and Zombie Brainsaw (what?) are both guaranteed hits this fall. More below.
Toy Fair 2016 is getting set to wrap-up over in London this week. Aside from a couple of new Razor electric toys that popped up, another notable announcement was a handful of fresh LEGO sets that are expected to be released throughout 2016. There will be new additions to the Marvel, Star Wars and LEGO City sets this year. More details below.
Razor has taken to the stage at London’s Toy Fair 2016 to reveal a handful of products for the upcoming year. First up, is the new Crazy Cart Shift, which is a refresh from its previous iteration that now includes a Power Core hub motor instead of depending on the usual chain-driven setup. It is powered by a 24V rechargeable battery that is managed by the foot throttle.
AnkerDirect via Amazon offers its Astro E5 16,000mAh Dual-Port USB Power Bank in black or white for $24.99 Prime shipped. That’s a savings of $15 off the regular going rate, $1 less than our previous mention and the lowest current price we can find. Features include two USB ports capable of charging speeds up to 3A, the 16,000mAh capacity can charge an iPhone 6/s six times, and it has a built-in LED flashlight. Rated 4.7/5 stars by over 4,300 Amazon customers.
Next up, you’ll find the KMASHI 10,000mAh Dual-Port USB Power Bank for $13.99. Applying coupon code JDI3KZ3Y drops the final price down to $9.20 Prime shipped. For comparison, you’ll typically find this power bank for $14-$16. Today’s deal is a few cents lower than our previous mention and the best price that we can currently find. KMASHI’s power bank offers two USB charging ports capable of charging speeds up to 2.1A, LED status lights, and 10,000mAh capacity. Rated 4.2/5 stars by nearly 5,000 Amazon reviewers.
Fender, maker of legendary guitars, has revealed a new lineup of in-ear headphones. The iconic name and flashy design are going to come at a price, however. With five models ranging from $100-$500, there is no shortage of sticker shock at the high-end for some consumers. The question is, can Fender compete in this space based on merit and not just name? More details below.
Home security is no laughing matter. Thankfully, we’ve seen quite a bit of innovation in this space that has allowed consumers to move away from traditional services like ADT. From standalone options like Canary to Nest Cam and the like, there are plenty of options on the table. Even the old school method of putting your lights on a timer has seen improvements.
That’s where ComfyLight comes in. A new product that just launched on Kickstarter with eyes on adding internet-connectivity to your lights while increasing security and peace-of-mind. The hook? It tracks your movements and routines, so when you’re away from home your lights continue to operate as if you were there…
Apple has now selected MarcoPolo Ocean as its Free App of the Week for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. It usually goes for $3, but can now be had for free until this time next week. This is just the third time that this app has gone free since it was released nearly two years ago. It has a 4.5/5 star rating all-time.
Over the last 12-18 months, popular lock manufacturers like Schlage and Kwikset have introduced iOS and Android-connected deadbolts for your home. Results have been somewhat mixed but there has clearly been an interest amongst consumers for this type of technology. This week, Brinks announced a new competitor in this space that blends familiar features with some new ideas.
The Array Digital Deadbolt has all the typical app-connected qualities. But instead of using low-power connection options like ZigBee or Bluetooth, Brinks is relying on Wi-Fi to communicate between devices. Because of the increased power drain, a solar panel has been built-in to the lock to help keep things running. More details below.
Lecia makes some of the most visually appealing products on the market today. From its military-inspired cameras to those ultra-sexy binoculars, you know each release is going to be a show-stopper. Today, Leica has released a new rugged and waterproof camera that still manages to look great. While it technically fits in the same category as GoPro, don’t expect similar styling…or price. The Leica X-U is a whole different animal that blends design and functionality into a unique package.
