Trevor Daugherty

Back in January, I found myself becoming increasingly enamored with the idea of making bicycling a serious a hobby. A month later I was the proud owner of a Trek CrossRip hybrid bike, great for riding around town but also for longer trips through the country. As someone that enjoys technology, I quickly looked for ways to make my new hobby a connected experience.

There are a plethora of good apps for iOS that track and record your excursions. I found this to be particularly handy in keeping tabs on my progress as a rider. However, finding a safe, visible spot for my iPhone 6 during the ride proved to be more challenging. The beauty of having all of this data is somewhat lost when your phone is stored away during your ride.

Over the last month, I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time with iOttie’s new Active Edge Bike & Bar Mount, which places an iPhone or Android directly on your handlebars. Head below for my thoughts as well as an exclusive 30% coupon code.
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Smartphones are becoming more feature packed than ever before, the cameras have improved and battery life has been stretched despite graphic instensive games and memory hogging apps. But consumers still want more. Everyone has different needs and ultimately those small features can’t always make the final build.

Enter nexpaq. A very successful Kickstarter campaign that puts a unique case around your iPhone or Android device allowing you to add and remove features as needed…
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Coffee aficionados know the value of freshly and properly roasted beans. To many, the difference in taste and complexity between a Keurig machine and a freshly roasted and ground brew is undeniable. More complex and professional style coffee makers have come down in price and are now considered a mainstay for some.

While pour-over and siphon coffee are becoming more familiar experiences at home, roasting beans is typically left to the experts. One Kickstarter campaign is attempting to change all that, bringing all the capabilities of larger roasters to the kitchen with iOS connectivity as the cherry on top…
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These days it seems that we are trying to make everything smart. Even products that have been around for a long time. Something as simple as a bicycle, which has been around for years, suddenly has all sorts of possibilities once a smartphone is connected to it.

A group of inventors is not attempting to reinvent the wheel, but rather the pedal. They are simply trying to prevent bike theft and make your two wheeled vehicle just a little bit smarter.

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Microsoft has announced which games will be going free for Xbox Live users for the month of May. As always there will be multiple titles that drop in price for certain days of the month on both Xbox One and 360.

Not an Xbox Live member? We have a deal to get you started plus full details on this month’s games below…

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Sony has announced its free games for PlayStation Plus members for the month of May. Subscribers will be able to find freebies across PS4, 3 and Vita this month, with some titles dropping prices across all three platforms. Head below for all the details on which games are going free…
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Update (5/20 1:30pm): Hulu has announced that it will have the full catalog of Seinfeld available on June 24th.

So what’s the deal with online video streaming? Apparently it’s worth upwards of $180 million, in the case of Seinfeld. According to various reports, that’s how much Hulu is paying to bring every episode of the popular 90’s sitcom to its streaming service. Yada Yada Yada, you know the rest, stream it for $8 a month and you’ll have access to the best show in the history of television, unless you can double dip with a friend and mooch on their subscription then all signs point to yes!

But if you’d rather skip on the subscription costs and just own the series out right? Well, Amazon offers the entire Seinfeld collection for $65 on DVD – a sponge-worthy deal indeed. At that price, $180 million looks like a pretty big matzo ball hanging out there.

Whether you’re grabbing all 180 episodes at Amazon or jumping on a Hulu Plus subscription, you can rest easy knowing that you’re a 1/3 of the way closer to the trifecta.

Giddy up.

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Power solutions for our smartphones and tablets are a dime and dozen at this point. Huge power banks that are capable of charging our devices multiple times. Inductive charging has been around for awhile with Android devices, now Apple Watch is depending on this type of power supply as well.

However, there is always room for improvement. One Kickstarter campaign is aiming to do so by combining magnets with wireless charging to create a solution to a situation everyone faces…
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There are a lot of Bluetooth speakers out there. From ultra-rugged to high-class design. You probably think that you’ve seen it all.

But have you ever looked into the eyes of Iron Man while also listening to your favorite songs?

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Update (4/29 11:00am): BuyDig via eBay Daily Deals offers the Samsung (UN55HU7250) 55-inch 120Hz Curved Smart LED UHDTV for $1,149.99 shipped. This is 4K UHDTV typically goes for over $1,700 at retailers such as Amazon, today’s deal is the best price that we have seen in new condition. It is rated 4.3/5 stars.

BuyDig via eBay Daily Deals offers the Samsung (UN60H7150) 60-inch 1080p 240Hz 3D Smart LED HDTV for $1,099.99 shipped. This television had an original list price of $2,699, it regularly goes for $1,500 at retailers such as Amazon. Today’s deal is the lowest price that we’ve seen it go for, besting our holiday season mention by $200.

With a 4.1/5 star rating by Amazon customers, this 60-inch HDTV offers plenty of real estate for watching movies, sports or playing video games. It has a 240Hz native refresh rate, smart functionality with voice control and four HDMI inputs. If you’re looking for a new HDTV for a living room or man cave, this would be a solid option.

Next up, Newegg has the LG (34UM94-P) 34-inch UltraWide LED WQHD Monitor with HDMI and Thunderbolt 2 inputs for $899.99. Applying coupon code EMCARNR44 will drop the final price down to $749.99 + .99 shipping. This is $550 off the original listing, at least $100 off the street price and a match for the lowest that we’ve seen it go for. Features include a 3440 x 1440 resolution, three USB 3.0 ports, two Thunderbolt 2 ports and two HDMI inputs.

Over at Groupon we also spotted the LG (55LN5400) 55″ 1080p 120Hz LED HDTV for $404.99 shipped with coupon code SALE3. Originally listed for $1,000, today’s deal is nearly 60% off and the lowest that we can find it.

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Update (5/2 12:00pm): @tweakmedia is our winner, thank you to everyone that entered the giveaway.

As Apple’s lineup continues to grow, more users are finding themselves using one device at home and one on the road. Because of that, we are seeing more home workstations in need of customization.

If you’re like myself, then an external monitor attached to a MacBook Air is the solution to this problem. The struggle of this setup is the height differential between each display. If you’re someone that sits at a desk all day, this is an issue that is certainly noticeable (and annoying!).

Grovemade, a Portland-based company, recently announced its own solution to this problem. Over the last few weeks, we’ve had the opportunity to work with the Walnut Laptop Stand. Head below for more details and to find out how you could win one yourself…
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We’ve all been there – your partner has an early meeting or prefers to get up before you do, the screeching alarm wakes you up, disrupting a wonderful night of sleep. Humans have searched for years to try to solve this problem without much success. While companies such as Philips have attempted to replicate a sunrise-like wakening experience, it is ultimately just a light that turns on slowly at a pre-set time.

A new Kickstarter program is aiming to change all that with infrared sensors, a parametric speaker and smartphone connectivity…
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The arrival of Apple Watch on Friday comes with hope for less incessant glances at our iPhone and more focus on the task at hand. For those going sans Watch, there is another product on the market that aims to deliver information without draining your iPhone battery…
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It’s April 22nd and that means that it’s Earth Day, which sheds light on best practices for how we can protect our planet. Some companies are making a greater effort to be aware of how products affect the environment. We’ve rounded up some ways that will decrease your impact while also potentially saving some money along the way.

One of the most obvious places to start is with LED light bulbs. Over the past year these alternative solutions to lighting have become more commonplace in homes and hardware stores across the country. LED bulbs use significantly less energy and do not need to be replaced as frequently as traditional options. These products are also moving towards a more affordable price point as well as demand increases.

Interested in transitioning to LED lightbulbs? Today Belkin is heavily discounting some of its WeMo LED bulbs by 50% bringing the lowest prices that we’ve ever seen. The Starter Kit is available today for $49.99 (Reg. $100) and a single bulb can be had for $14.99 (Reg. $30).

We also have a nice deal on Philip’s newest product that delivers some of the lowest prices that we’ve ever seen. Smart LED bulbs also enable users to control lighting from a smartphone, although these are often higher in price the functionality maybe be worth the upcharge. Check out this deal on Philip’s Hue lights to get started.

Our own homes are a great place to start when it comes to decreasing our impact on the earth. A great way is to check with your utility company to see if they offer any rebates for investing in products that consume less energy. An easy solution is to invest in smart thermostats that regulate your home’s temperature even when you are away. These devices can monitor whether or not you are at home and adjust the heat or cooling as needed saving money and energy along the way. The most popular solution is the Nest thermostat, but there are other solutions that have really improved in this category from Honeywell and Ecobee.

Another way to save some money is on rechargeable batteries – we are personally fond of Apple’s own Battery Charger, which is a great solution for keeping that wireless mouse or keyboard charged up. Other solid options include:

• AmazonBasics Rechargeable Batteries
  • 16-pack AA: $26.69
  • 12-pack AAA: $18.57
• Panasonic Eneloop Charger w/ 4 AA Batteries: $17.77

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Update (4/23 3:40pm): Apple has officially named djay 2 as its Free App of the Week.

Whether you’re a professional DJ or just enjoy spinning for your backyard parties, we’ve got a serious price drop on a very popular app today. For the first time since it’s release, iPad has gone free, it regularly goes for $10. djay 2 for iPhone has also dropped its price to free, for just the second time (Reg. $3).

This full-featured DJ app puts users in complete control of the party with integrated support for Spotify and iTunes, enabling users to spin the latest hits anywhere. All you need to do is hook up your device to a sound system and djay 2 will enable you to perform live, create and record mixes or simply sit back and the let the app do the work for you.

https://youtu.be/qGXsp4Lhbns

djay 2 brings life to the party with a number of included audio effects with additional in-app purchases adding more custom mixing options. Not only is the feature list long, this app has all the connectivity and interface abilities that professionals would hope for. Bluetooth and AirPlay remove the need for a wired setup while popular MIDI controllers from Pioneer, Philips and many more are supported. Algoriddim has partnered with other companies to create hardware specifically designed for the djay 2 app that will help get you started.

Head over to our daily games and apps roundup for the latest deals on iOS, Android and consoles.

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Following up on its impressive 4K UHDTV announcement today, Sony has also provided information on its new soundbars and A/V receivers for 2015. The Tokyo-based company has spared little in the way of connectivity on these home audio products.

Sony has nailed every feature that we’d want in a soundbar or A/V receiver, head below to find out more…
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A few days after VIZIO announced its new line of 4K televisions, Sony is delving into the details of its latest UHDTV products. Although price points make it clear that the latter is not attempting to compete with the former.

Sony has a number of features that standout amongst the sea of recently released 4K televisions, most notably an ultra-thin design that puts one of Apple’s flagship products to shame…
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Update (4/25 5:00pm): @sanders_voice is our winner – thank you to everyone that entered!

Last month journal-maker Moleskine released a new line of backpack and messenger bags. Since then, we’ve spent time with one of its newest products: the myCloud Smallpack in grey, which is designed for laptops up to 13-inches in size. This bag is a unique blend of compact design and high capacity storage.

Head below for full details on the myCloud Smallpack and details on how you could win one yourself…
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With mounting pressure from online television streaming services such as Netflix and Sling TV, today Verizon Wireless announced a new option for FiOS subscribers. The telecommunications company will now offer a “skinny” bundle with additional add-on packages that can be interchanged regularly depending on the needs of the customer.

The price itself isn’t too bad considering…
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Update (5/26 11:00am): IKEA’s new wireless charging furniture and accessories are now available for purchase in-store and online.

After months of rumors circulating, IKEA has officially taken the cover off its new line of wireless charging solutions for select smartphones, including iPhone. The popular home goods company has developed multiple products that integrate a power supply directly into its furniture.

IKEA has also created a system to bring wireless charging into existing furniture as well…
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After years of varying success with trying to bring DIY carbonated beverages to the home, SodaStream is now showing off a new product that it hopes will bring its brand into the mainstream. This electronic bartender marries carbonation and alcohol with a twist of internet connectivity…
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Big upgrades are coming to LG’s line of Music Flow speakers. Today, the South Korean-based manufacturer has released details on new wireless speakers and soundbars that expand its previously announced offerings while bringing new software compatibility with Google Cast and other services.

Seven new speakers will be available from LG with the expanded capability of Google’s services. Each new model fits a different need for consumers with wireless and portable speakers as well as soundbars in this round of releases.
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Watch out living room rockers, Guitar Hero is coming back this fall with a whole new release for all the popular gaming consoles. Activision has announced that it’s reviving the popular band game after a five year hiatus with new gameplay modes, an updated controller and a fresh track list with hits from a number of popular artists. With a new version of Rock Band 4 on the horizon, it’s no surprise that its gaming counterpart will be getting a new release as well.

We’ve got the full details on new gameplay modes, a redesigned guitar and how you can pre-order Guitar Hero Live today…
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In a market that has long been dominated by GoPro’s highly acclaimed devices, more companies are attempting to capitalize on that success and get in on the action camera craze. Garmin and Panasonic have both introduced new cameras that are meant for on-the-go recording. While each have attributes that stand out from GoPro, neither company has included a certain flagship feature that we would have liked to have seen…
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Following the success of its P-Series line last fall, VIZIO is now detailing the new M-Series of 4K UHDTVs, as well as a number of other new products. VIZIO has long been known for both its quality and value across a number of different home entertainment categories.

Today, the California-based company has lifted the veil on its new soundbars, “high-dynamic range” televisions and the previously mentioned M-Series. 
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Update (4/18 11:00am): @oneniner is our winner – thank you to everyone that entered our contest!

Bluetooth-enabled headphones are making a run for your ears and it seems like every release is improving on a once dysfunctional and disappointing product category. What was previously defined by empty and unpleasing sound is now finding its stride as Bluetooth continues to improve. Much like any technology, its quality is only enhanced by the standard that guides it. Now is the time to begin considering Bluetooth headphones as a potential replacement for the classic 3.5mm standby.

We’ve spent some time with the SOL REPUBLIC’s new Shadow Wireless Bluetooth headphones and today we are ready to deliver a verdict:
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Update (4/14 12:45pm): On-The-Go has launched its IndieGoGo campaign, if you’re interested in grabbing one they’ve got a number of different pledge options.

If you’re an avid follower of 9to5Toys (and we know that you are), you’re well aware of our love of battery packs, USB drives, MFi certification and all around gadgetry. It’s always interesting when companies set out to pair these things together, with varying degrees of success.

We’ve spotted something new today though, fittingly named On The Go, which aims to combine storage, charging, streaming, device tracking and more into a small package. The multi-functional connectivity on this thing is impressive, from iPhone to Android to Mac, it has everything covered…
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Rules!, the fast-paced puzzle-based game designed around multi-touch controls, is now available for free inside the Apple Store app for iPhone (US only).  It was also recently updated with Apple Watch integration. This is the first time that we’ve seen this app available for free, it typically goes for $2.99.

To clairfy, do not navigate to the Rules! listing on the App Store, head below for instructions on how to redeem your freebie:

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This week Apple has selected Twisty Hollow as its free app of the week for iOS users. This week’s sale marks the first time the game has gone free since releasing last fall, it typically sells for $3.

Players can follow along as citizen’s battle an unruly self-appointed mayor in this puzzle style game. The imaginative “paper art-style” game pits citizens against government as they try to solve the city’s problems and survive a new regime.

Head below for more details on this game.
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Drones have entered the mainstream, most consumers are familiar with them and the beautiful imagery that these flying, camera-wielding, devices can capture. Perhaps no company has had a greater influence on consumers becoming more familiar with this technology than DJI.

Since 2006, DJI has been working to create consumer and professional style drones that put high quality aerial video and photography in the hands of many. Now the China-based company has announced its latest addition, the Phantom 3.

Lets just say you’ve got to see the video to truly understand how cool this thing is…
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Our technology deserves a nice accessory, something to complement the beautiful curves and lines of the device. We are big fans of well made add-ons that come with a story and there may be no better company in America at doing that than Grovemade. Today, the Portland-based company has introduced a new stand that gives the MacBook a little boost, crafted from locally sourced materials here in the United States.
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Cooking is not easy, neither is making healthier choices. No matter your skill level in the kitchen or fitness, chances are you’ve found yourself at a crossroads wondering how to improve these areas of life.

Today, Orange Chef has announced a new product that aims to bridge the gap to a healthier life with its new Countertop accessory for the kitchen. You may have seen some of Orange Chef’s other nifty gadgets, but the Countertop aims to take meal prep to a whole new level with integration for Apple Watch, Jawbone, and other kitchen mainstays such as Vitamix and Crockpot.

It’ll even tell you how make that elusive perfect smoothie…
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It seems these days that 3D printers are everywhere, with all shapes, sizes and prices for a variety of needs. Once a new technology becomes more common place, it begins to improve as its usage becomes more widely accepted. A group of engineers has come up with a new 3D printer design that offers a number of features that improve on frustrations they’ve experienced first hand.

Not only is this new 3D printer unique, it has smashed its Kickstarter goal in just a few days…
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Update (4/11 9:00am): @jimmiebjr is our winner – thank you to everyone that entered our contest, and for reading!

This is Ground has made another foray into the iPad accessory world, this time updating its Mod case with new styling and inserts. When we last featured the Los Angeles-based manufacturer, it was riding the success of its line of products meant to complement both professional and casual environments.

Since then, This is Ground has expanded and found more ways to bring together form and function into quality America made products. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the newly released Mod 2:
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Wireless whole home audio is moving away from being labeled a new and expanding category to something that is refining itself as a necessary need for audio enthusiasts. We’ve seen new releases from Bang & Olufsen this year, as well as updates to Aether’s speaker, while SONOS continues to reign supreme.

This week, Samsung announced a new entry into the whole home audio competition with its Radiant360 R7 Wireless Speaker that offers a number of familiar features plus some new ones.

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There are a lot of reasons to be excited about Sling TV. Since it popped up in January just before CES, this streaming television service has been making waves throughout the entertainment world. Chances are if you watch television shows or movies, you’ve heard something about Sling.

Last month Dish brought its online streaming service to the Xbox One in an exclusive agreement that nets Live subscribers a one month free trial. The question is, does Sling bring enough to the table to make the Xbox One a complete solution to home entertainment?
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It’s a great time to be a gamer as we continue to see old classics re-made into new current gen games (as long as it’s legal!). The latest to get a modern re-hashing is the vintage DuckTales 8-bit game from the 80’s. Today, Disney has released DuckTales: Remastered as a universal iOS app that features all the original characters with some new storylines sprinkled in.

Gamers will be able to play as Scrooge McDuck in this re-make of the classic side-scrolling game as he journeys through different parts of the world. Follow along as he travels to far off places such as the Amazon, Transylvania, and the moon. The game features voice-overs from all the original actors, retaining the authentic experience of this 80’s classic. DuckTales: Remastered supports Bluetooth controllers and is available for download today with a $9.99 price tag. There is also a console version available as well for Wii U, PS3 and Xbox 360.

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