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Trevor Daugherty

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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.

Connect with Trevor Daugherty

Onkyo’s new portable headphone digital-to-analog converter uses a Lightning cable to boost your iPhone’s sound

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Most of us enjoy our audio, albeit from iTunes or Spotify or the like, on an iPhone when we are on the go. The reality is that while iPhones are a decent source for audio, the internal make-up isn’t as strong as it could be when it comes to enjoying your favorite tunes.

This is where a digital-to-analog-converter can really come in handy, taking the stress off your device and letting the DAC do all the work. Audio accessory maker Onkyo has a new solution that utilizes the Lightning port instead of the typical 3.5mm jack to provide higher-fidelity audio.
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Game of Thrones: A Telltale Games Series is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)

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IGN is now offering Game of Thrones: A Telltale Games Series for iPhone/iPad as its free game of the month. This game is regularly listed for $4.99 and has a rating of 3/5 stars from nearly 500 reviewers. This is the first discount that we’ve seen on this game since its release. This is great timing with Game of Throne’s upcoming season premiere and HBO’s new availability on Sling TV. You can now download this game for free on iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch via IGN’s deal page.

Experience the thrill of Game of Thrones first hand with this six part episodic game series based of HBO’s hit show. This game tells the story of House Forrester, who battles his way through the War of the Five Kings. Gamers will take on different roles of the Forrester household, which will affect many others in the game as it plays out.

For more app deals, don’t forget Apple’s Free App of the Week and today’s best game deals.


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Sling TV will offer HBO plus on-demand content in time for Game of Thrones premiere

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Update (4/8 9:00am): Sling has pushed the HBO update to its accounts, subscribers can sign-up today for the add-on package at a price of $15/month. Apple TV users have the option of grabbing a free 30-day trial of the recently released HBO Now, as well.

Sling TV is continuing to push traditional television providers, announcing today that it will carry HBO’s linear channel plus on-demand content before the Game of Thrones premiere on April 12th. HBO’s standard channel and an “extensive VOD library” will be a $15 add-on to Sling’s “best of live TV” $20 core package. No word yet on HBO Go accessibility on iOS or Apple TV. This follows last month’s launch of AMC just in time for Mad Men’s last run starting this Sunday.

Interested in Sling TV? You can grab a free Amazon Fire Stick or Roku Stick by signing up for three months of service. Xbox One members can enjoy a free month trial with a Live membership.

Sling TV to launch HBO in time for ‘Game of Thrones’ premiere

  • Sling TV will be the first live Internet TV service to offer linear and Video-On-Demand (VOD) content from HBO
  • HBO will be available as an add-on to “Best of Live TV” customers for an additional $15 per month

NEW YORK and ENGLEWOOD, Colo., April 1, 2015 – Sling TV and HBO today announced that Sling TV will be the first live Internet TV service to offer linear and Video-On-Demand (VOD) content from HBO. HBO will be available in time for the “Game of Thrones” and “Silicon Valley”season premieres on April 12. Sling TV with HBO will be available on all devices supported by Sling TV including: Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick; current-generation Roku players and Roku TV models; Xbox One; Android and iOS devices; and Macs and PCs.

HBO will be available for $15 per month when customers sign up for the “Best of Live TV” core package. The new offering includes one live channel and the same extensive VOD library HBO provides on its other platforms. Each month, HBO offers more of the biggest and latest Hollywood hit movies, original HBO Films, groundbreaking documentaries, sports, and comedy and music specials.

“Sling TV is bringing HBO to our customers on all of our supported devices in time for one of the most important TV moments of the year,” said Roger Lynch, CEO of Sling TV. “HBO delivers hit shows and movies that TV viewers crave, and with this addition we’re adding another heavy hitter to a lineup that includes ESPN, AMC, TNT and more.”

“It is has always been our desire to make the HBO subscription widely accessible,” said Tom Woodbury, President of Global Distribution, HBO.  “Sling TV is a part of that ongoing evolution and we believe HBO is a great addition to the platform.”

Sling TV’s “Best of Live TV” $20 core package delivers ESPN, ESPN2, AMC, A&E, TNT, History Channel, H2, TBS, Food Network, HGTV, Travel Channel, IFC, El Rey, Adult Swim, Cartoon Network, ABC Family, Disney Channel, CNN, Lifetime and Galavision. This package additionally features access to WatchESPN, including ESPN3 and an array of VOD entertainment. Customers can choose to tailor their entertainment experience with the addition of HBO for $15 per month or the optional “Sports Extra,” “Hollywood Extra,” “Kids Extra,” “Lifestyle Extra” and “World News Extra” add-ons, each priced at $5 per month. In addition to live channels and VOD entertainment, Sling TV customers have access to content from Maker Studios.

Details regarding the launch date of HBO on Sling TV will be announced soon.

About Sling TV

Sling TV L.L.C., a subsidiary of DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH), provides over-the-top television services including domestic and international live and Video-On-Demand programming. It is available on televisions, tablets, computers and smartphones. The Sling TV programming portfolio includes content from Disney/ESPN, HBO, AMC, Turner, Scripps, EPIX, Univision and Maker Studios. Sling TV’s international OTT service (DishWorld) currently provides close to 200 channels in 16 languages across multiple devices to U.S. households. Sling TV is a next-generation service that meets the entertainment needs of today’s contemporary viewers. Visit www.sling.com.

Amazon’s new Dash Replenishment Service brings push button ordering to your washing machine

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Today’s big news comes from Amazon, who announced a new venture that aims to make ordering household supplies easier… almost too easy. Its Dash Replenishment Service (DRS) offers an internet connected device that makes stocking up on supplies as easy as a push of a button. The little stick-on devices can go a number of places, with washing machines being a prime example. After a consumer would see a need for laundry soap, they would simply press the button and more would come their way.

amazon-dash-service

Amazon is also offering integration with appliances, with early adoption planned from companies such as Whirlpool, Brita and Quirky. DRS is also available with Amazon’s Fresh service, the included wand allows users to scan bar codes of food that needs replenished, instantly adding it to the customer’s cart online.

amazon-fresh-dash

There is no denying that this little project from Amazon, which is currently in beta, would close the gap between Amazon and its customers even more. Just make sure you keep it out of your children’s reach – that could be a problem.

Quirky’s new Poppy line of home automation includes a gorgeous pour-over coffee maker w/ iOS integration

poppy-pour-over-coffee

Admittedly, I love coffee. All the different roasts, blends and ways to make it are so intriguing to me. There has been an influx of coffee makers recently that offer a variety of different solutions for getting your morning cup of joe. I’m not sure that I’ve seen one recently as eye-catching as the Pour-Over from Quirky. This line of products – named Poppy – also has solutions for feeding your pets and your baby (separately) and will even order new food automatically from Amazon when you need it.
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PlayStation Plus announces free games for April: Dishonored, Never Alone, Tower of Guns, more

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If you’re not too busy playing Bloodborne this week, Sony has announced its line-up of free games for the month of April, headlined by Dishonored for PS3. This well rated supernatural action/stealth game pits gamers as a silent killer, trying to move through the streets of Dunwall without being seen by foes out to catch you. As the once trusted body guard turned on-the-run killer, gamers will find plenty of choice with the title’s deep-stealth action oriented mechanics.

Head below for the list of games for PS3/4 and Vita.


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This Limited Edition Batman: Arkham Knight PlayStation 4 is one of the best looking consoles ever, pre-order today

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Update (3/31 2:15pm): Pre-order is now available via Amazon and Best Buy for the limited edition Batman: Arkham Knight bundle. Those interested in the standard bundle can place a pre-order at Amazon and Best Buy as well.

Coinciding with the upcoming release of Batman: Arkham Knight, Sony has announced a new PlayStation 4 bundle that brings more than an added game. This limited edition custom gray PS4 has a subtle likeness of the Dark Knight on the console with a understated moniker “Batman: Arkham Knight” plus a matching DualShock 4 controller. Unlike other game specific console releases that we’ve seen, Sony’s latest release reminds more of something we’d proudly display in our man cave.

Pre-orders are slated to begin today but are not yet open, we’ll update this post as needed. The limited edition bundle is available for $449.99. Sony is also offering a traditional console with Batman: Arkham Knight for $399.99. The game itself is available for pre-order with an expected June release date.


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Upgrade your home theater system w/ this Bose Acoustimass 6 speaker set for $369 shipped (Reg. $400+)

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Amazon offers the Bose Acoustimass 6 Home Entertainment Speaker System for $369 shipped. Today’s price is $430 off the original listing, $30 lower than its previous price and the lowest that we can currently find it.

Features include:

  • Five magnetically-shielded cube speakers, each with a 2.5″ high-performance full-range driver, cover all 5 surround channels
  • Hideaway Acoustimass module with two 5.25″ woofer bass drivers for adding rich levels of dimension for realistic theatrical sound
  • Compatible with all surround sound receivers (including Dolby Digital and dts formats) or separate power amplifiers rated from 10 to 100 watts per channel (4 or 8 ohms rated impedance)
  • Includes a full set of color-coded, pull-apart bundled cables and mistake-proof connectors for simple and convenient installation
  • Each speaker can be mounted anywhere including walls (with optional wall-mount kits)
  • Five magnetically-shielded cube speakers, each with a 2.5 directional high-performance, full-range driver, to cover all 5 surround channels. Hideaway Acoustimass module with two 5.25 Woofer bass drivers for adding rich levels of dimension for realistic theatrical sound
  • Compatible with all surround sound receivers (including Dolby Digital and dts formats) or separate power amplifiers rated from 10 to 100 watts per channel (4 or 8 Ohms rated impedance)

This speaker system is rated 4.3/5 stars by 46 Amazon customers.

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Spotify finds an exclusive gaming console home w/ Sony’s new PlayStation Music service

spotify-loves-playstation

After being teased in January, Spotify and Sony have launch it’s new PlayStation Music service today. This console exclusive deal brings over 30 million songs to both the PS4 and it’s older counterpart the PS3. Utilizing Spotify’s Connect feature, users can control playback on the console via Android or iOS. If you’ve already got a Spotify Premium subscription, you’ll be able to link that account and have full access to PlayStation Music on day one.

Full PR:

Spotify Launches on PlayStation Music Today

Hi everyone! In January, we announced PlayStation Music, a new music destination that brings Spotify to PS4, PS3, and Xperia mobile devices in 41 markets around the world. This exclusive partnership brings the best in music and the best in gaming together on PlayStation Network, and I am thrilled to announce that Spotify on PlayStation Music is coming to PS4 and PS3 today!

Spotify is the exclusive partner of PlayStation Music, and with more than 30 million songs and 1.5 billion playlists, PS4 users can soundtrack their gaming sessions with their favorite songs. To make controlling your music even easier PS4 and PS3 users will be able to take advantage of the Spotify Connect feature on the official Spotify app for Android/iOS. You can select a playlist, skip songs, adjust the volume, and more.

PlayStation Network users can easily link their accounts to Spotify and use their account to subscribe to Spotify’s Premium service, which is available for $9.99 per month. If you want to check out Spotify’s Premium service first, we have the following offers in place:

  • Music Unlimited subscribers with accounts active as of March 29, 2015, can receive 2 months of free access to Spotify Premium
  • New and existing Spotify users who have not previously received a trial of Spotify Premium can receive one month free

This is just the beginning of Spotify on PlayStation Music, which will continue to evolve. We are working with the team at Spotify to bring new and exciting features exclusively to our platforms. You can learn more at the official site.

Clean up your diet w/ free Kindle downloads of these healthy cookbooks

Amazon is offering a number of Kindle-only cookbooks for free today. It’s a wide selection, too, covering everything from “clean dieting” to gluten free eating. The highly-regarded Paleo Diet weight loss cookbook is available here as well.

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Small States Review: TM1985’s Weekend Duffel is the perfect companion for any excursion, $371 giveaway

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Update (4/4 11:45am): @iamcoxnow is our winner, thank you to everyone that entered this week’s giveaway!

Since we last visited with TM1985, the New York-based bag and accessory maker has continued to expand its line of products. This week, we’ll be taking a look at the Weekend Duffel, a new travel solution from TM1985 that aims to put a little more style in your luggage game.
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Neo smartpen N2 instantaneously sends handwritten words and doodles to its iOS/Android app

Today, NeoLAB officially launched its Neo smartpen N2 following a wildly successful Kickstart campaign that raised more than over $350,000. Even more impressive is that the original goal was just $20,000. After selling some 2,500 pens during the initial round of crowdfunding, those that missed out are able to grab one today.
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Save 20% off Patagonia, The North Face and much more at the REI dividends sale

REI is running its annual dividends sale for members, offering 20% off one full-priced item or 20% off one item from its outlet. This deal is particularly notable because there are very few exclusions on full-priced products. There is potential for savings on items that are usually excluded from other sales such as Patagonia, The North Face as well as camping and outdoor equipment.

If you’re not already an REI member, this promotion will work if you add a $20 enrollment to your cart. Any purchase over $100 is going to render an effectively free membership, with more potential savings above that threshold. REI members also receive an annual dividend of 10% back on eligible purchases throughout the year.

Our favorite deals from this sale include:


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Former Apple Designer takes on the mothership with new iOS and Android connected timepiece

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It’s high times when it comes to smart watches. With the Apple Watch looming for launch in the next month, the race for your wrist is mid-stride. One former Apple designer is taking next month’s release head-on, putting a focus on creating something that is meant to last longer than this year’s product cycle.
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iTunes Free App of the Week: Tangent – transform your photos into a one-of-a-kind works of art ($2 value)

Apple has hand picked Tangent to be the Free App of the Week. The title normally goes for $1.99, but is now available for free on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. With a rating of 4.5/5 stars from 428 reviewers, this is the first time we have seen it go free in over a year.

Head below for more details:
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Incase Apple Accessory Sale: Andy Warhol iPhone 5 case $10 (orig. $40), MacBook and iPad sleeves, more

Tanga is discounting a number of Incase accessories for iPhone, iPad and MacBooks. Many of these products are for previous generation Apple products, it’s a nice chance at some heavily discounted accessories. Free shipping is available on all orders.

Standout deals include:

We’ve also got an exclusive 50% discount on Incase MacBook hardshell cases as well.

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Up your photo editing game with this Adobe Photoshop Elements + Canon Printer bundle for $50 (~$110 value)

BuyDig offers the Canon MG2520 all-in-one Inkjet Printer + Adobe Photoshop Elements 12 (Mac/Windows) for $49.99 shipped. Note: price is reflected when product is added to cart. The printer alone typically goes for $30+ at retailers such as Amazon, while Photoshop Elements 12 is listed at $78. The original value of this bundle is $170, today’s deal brings significant savings even if you are only interested in the software. Adobe Elements 12 is compatible with Mac OS X and Windows, it is bundled as a disc in this deal.

If you are looking for a quality alternative to Apple’s new Photo app, Photoshop Elements 12 offers all of the same editing tools with some higher end features as well. Elements 12 is a full photo editing solution with built-in organization, image correction tools and other features such as panorama stitching and Adobe Revel for accessing your work while on the go.

The included Canon MG2520 prints in color using a hybrid inkjet system that prints up to eight pages a minute.


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This Minecraft Toolbox brings Steve’s tools to life thanks to Raspberry Pi

Since its release in 2011, Minecraft has become a worldwide phenomenon that is revered by gamers of all ages. It has made its way to consoles, iPads and even Raspberry Pi. With all of its success, Minecraft continues to be expanded on and explored. One Kickstarter project is aiming to marry the virtual engineering of this game with real life computer building.


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Pick up some LEGO DUPLO & Star Wars sets to keep the kids busy during Spring Break, as much as 60% off at Target

Update (3/25 11:00am): Amazon offers the LEGO City Arctic Helicrane 60034 for $27.99 shipped. This set typically retails for $40.

Update: (3/24 8:45am): Walmart offers a 580 piece LEGO set, full of traditional blocks and accessories, for $20 with free in-store pick up. This set goes for $38 over at Amazon where it is rated 4.8/5 stars.

We’ve spotted a number of LEGO DUPLO sets with nice discounts at Target today, just in time for parents to stock up ahead of Spring Break and summer. If you’re not familiar, the DUPLO line from LEGO is made with early childhood development in mind, although I think the designs are pretty slick too. You’ll need to spend at least $25 to get free shipping, otherwise it will vary by item.

Full breakdown on today’s LEGO DUPLO deals:

Other LEGO deals we spotted:

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Australia’s Toffee introduces new iPhone, iPad & MacBook accessories w/ exclusive discount for 9to5 readers

We first introduced Toffee during the holiday season, with its beautifully crafted accessories for Apple devices. The Sydney, Australia-based company offers a wide selection of bags and gear for life on the go, including a 9to5Toys favorite, the Fitzroy Satchel.

Since we last caught up with Toffee, it has introduced a number of new products to complement iPhone 6, iPad Air 2 and MacBooks. We’ve spent time with some of its newest gear. Head below for more details and an exclusive discount for 9to5Toys’ readers.


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Small States Review: Grado’s GR10e in-ear headphones hit every note, $299 giveaway

Grado GR10e First Shoot

Update (3/28 12:15pm): @IAmTimBaker is our winner, thank you to everyone that entered our Grado giveaway!

Since Grado first announced its newest generation of in-ear headphones, we’ve spent sometime putting the GR10e’s through the paces. Starting at $299 for the GR8e’s and $399 for the 10e’s, these in-ear headphones come at a premium price in comparison to other options on the market. But the magic of the Brooklyn manufacturer is clearly evident in this latest iteration of in-ears.
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Atari’s new Fit app for iOS and Android rewards users w/ classic arcade games

Atari is joining the fitness craze today, releasing details on its new free workout app for iOS and Android. The Atari Fit App will work in tandem with popular fitness trackers such as FitBit and Jawbone, to collect data. It will also import and export data with Apple’s HealthKit and other apps like Run Keeper and Google Fit. Atari has a full compliment of workout routines built into the app, focusing on full-body circuit workouts, running programs, and conditioning.

atari-app-ios

So what makes this different from other fitness apps? Working out with the Atari Fit app unlocks rewards, including popular titles from the game maker, including Pong, Super Breakout, and Centipede. Additionally, users will be able to use milestones to receive Walgreen’s Balance Rewards as well.

Download for iOS or Android.

Atari® Enters Fitness Market with Launch of the Atari Fit™ App, a Robust Mobile Experience for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android Devices

NEW YORKMarch 19, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Atari®, one of the world’s most recognized publishers and producers of interactive entertainment, today announced the launch of Atari Fit for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android devices.  Available on the App Store and Google PlayAtari Fit is a rich fitness app that incentivizes users to get fit, stronger and healthier while earning points to unlock fan-favorite Atari games including Pong®Super Breakout®, and Centipede®.

According to research from NPD Group, more than 25 percent of US consumers use smartphone fitness apps. Furthermore, some of the most avid fitness app consumers (62 percent) include middle-aged women, who use their fitness apps 3x more than the average customer – an audience of significant overlap with casual gaming. Unlike other exercise apps, Atari Fit motivates consumers to reach their health goals with a gamified mobile experience that combines the best of the gaming and fitness industry.

Atari Fit was developed in collaboration with fitness expert Michael Porter, a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) – certified personal trainer and performance enhancement specialist. Featuring over 100 exercises, 30+ workout plans and customizable programs including full-body circuit workouts, running programs, and conditioning routines, Atari Fit is designed to challenge users at every level – from those just beginning their fitness journeys to the most active exercise enthusiasts.

Atari Fit provides a great balance of fitness and fun,” said Porter. “The certified programs are safe, effective, and give users access to really comprehensive fitness routines, while additional features like the tracking capabilities, daily tips, Atari games, and multiple social components encourage users to engage with fitness in their every-day life.”

Atari Fit is compatible with the industry’s most popular wearable health and fitness devices, including Fitbit, Jawbone, and Android Wear devices. It can also aggregate data from other world-renowned fitness apps such as RunKeeper, Apple Health, and Google Fit – allowing users to aggregate all of their fitness activity in one location while tapping into the robust set of tracking capabilities to capture the user’s distance, speed, pace, time and calories burned within the comprehensive log-book.

Atari is working with Walgreens to bring real-world rewards through the Walgreens Balance® Rewards for healthy choices program. By engaging with Atari Fit, gamers and non-gamers alike can earn Balance Rewards loyalty program points, which are redeemable at Walgreens locations nation-wide or at Walgreens.com.

Featuring multiple social components, Atari Fit users can exercise individually or in collaboration with friends in multiplayer mode. Players can join a team, workout or race against each other, and track activity statistics for group encouragement. At the end of workouts, users can post updates on Twitter and Facebook to share achievements and personal fitness bests with friends. The unlockable Atari games also grants users access to worldwide leaderboards where they can rank their PongSuper Breakout, and Centipede skills against other players.

“With Atari Fit, players from around the globe can exercise, play and get healthy together by providing a gamified fitness experience unlike any other app currently available,” said Fred Chesnais, Chief Executive Officer, Atari, Inc. “By uniting the universal need to exercise and live healthfully with the entertaining experience unique to Atari games, we’ve created an app that proves fitness can be fun.”

Development partners for Atari Fit include 8BitFit, a company focused on the gamification of fitness, and Gametheory, an award-winning production studio.

For the latest Atari Fit news and updates, visit www.AtariFit.com, follow @AtariFit on Twitter and Like us https://www.facebook.com/AtariFit on Facebook.

The Atari Fit app is free-to-download on the App Store for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Google Play.

About Atari
Atari (www.atari.com) is an interactive entertainment production company. As an iconic brand that transcends generations and audiences, the company is globally recognized for its multi-platform, interactive entertainment and licensed products. Atari owns and/or manages a portfolio of more than 200 games and franchises, including world-renowned brands like Asteroids®, Centipede®, Missile Command®, Pong®, Test Drive®, and RollerCoaster Tycoon®.

Atari has offices in New York and Paris.

© 2015 Atari Interactive. All rights reserved. Atari Fit™ and associated trademarks are the property of Atari Interactive, Inc.

About 8BitFit
8BitFit helps people reach their fitness goals with smartphone-based games that make exercise less boring and more fun. For more information, visit www.8bitfit.com.

About Gametheory
Gametheory is a development and ideas studio focused on bringing fun into the world. We produce games, apps, and gamification strategies. Gametheory believes the best future is one focused on natural engagement- transforming tedious and dull to satisfying and exciting. We believe in a karmic user connection: the more you give users to enjoy, the more time, data, and loyalty you get in return. For more information, visit http://www.gametheoryco.com/.

This iPhone 6 case uses old fashioned power to keep your device alive

Ampware Duo

We’ve all been there with a dead iPhone. There are a lot of battery options out there, including some that are built right into a case. All of these solutions require previous charging prior to leaving your home.

Start-up company Ampware is attempting to change all that by borrowing an old solution for this problem.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIb34sFR_X4

Ampware launched its Indiegogo campaign today for the CrankCase, which puts a literal crank right on your iPhone so that you can manually provide power in case of a dead battery. This iPhone 6 case uses a patent pending design, which includes a pop-up hand crank, built-in USB sync/charging cable and a second USB port for charging other accessories. The crank also doubles as a kickstand, as well.

iphone-6-crank-case-specs

According to the Indiegogo product page, CrankCase will provide 40 minutes of talk time after one minute of hand-cranking. Ampware states that it also has an output of 500mA to any attached device.

The CrankCase is currently available for pledging with an early bird price of $49, with an estimated ship date of October.

Crank Your Phone Back to Life: Ampware Introduces CrankCase

BATON ROUGE, La.March 18, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Ampware (www.getampware.com) today announces the launch of CrankCase, a smartphone case with an integrated hand-crank generator. Taking technology back to the basics, Ampware utilizes compact electric generators to produce energy to power your mobile devices.

Designed for any situation where you might not have access to mains power, CrankCase’s patent pending device allows for convenient use. Users can utilize CrankCase wherever there isn’t easy access to outlets or traditional chargers.

“After Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, we realized that staying connected with loved ones in disasters is almost impossible without power,” said Mark Gabriel, co-founder of Ampware. “We designed CrankCase to be reliable so you don’t have to worry about having a car charger or wall outlet to power your mobile device. In an emergency, you can always generate enough power to stay connected with your family and friends.”

With CrankCase, one minute of cranking can give a user 40 minutes of talk time. The CrankCase will be designed for popular smartphone models, but will be launched for iPhone 5/5S and 6 for pre-order now. However, Ampware will also have CrankBox, which can charge any mobile device through a micro-USB connection.

CrankCase and CrankBox are now available at an early-bird price for $49 and $29 respectively on Indiegogo.  For more information about Ampware, visit www.getampware.com and follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram. Ampware is assembled in USA.

About Ampware:

Founded in 2014, Ampware (www.getampware.com) is an innovative brand set on redefining the way consumers use mobile power accessories. Focused on bringing technology back to the basics, Ampware integrates hardware, firmware and industrial design for an unparalleled product experience. Motivated by helping others, every Ampware product serves a unique purpose, creating solutions for people in times when they need help most. Stay powered with Ampware through FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

Sony releases its PlayStation Vue streaming television service in select cities, but how does it compare to Sling?

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Update (3/27 5:30pm): Just in time for the Mad Men season premiere, PlatStation Vue has added the AMC family of networks to its service. This includes AMC, WEtv, IFC, and Sundance. The former of which are included in all packages, while the latter can be found in the Core and Elite packages.

It has been a big week for internet television. Sling TV made its way to the Xbox One and Apple appears closer than ever to providing its own streaming television service. We know what Sling has to offer, while Apple is still negotiating.

Today, Sony has released its PlayStation Vue streaming television service in select cities across the United States. While it offers a much more comprehensive list of channels than Sling TV, there are a few reasons to think twice before diving in.


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Modern Combat 5: Blackout for iOS goes free for the first time (Reg. $4+)

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Gameloft’s Call of Duty-like iOS military shooter, Modern Combat 5: Blackout has gone free for the first time since its release last July. This game typically goes for $4 and has been listed as high as $7. Modern Combat 5: Blackout is rated 4/5 stars by over 7,900 users.

Blackout has squad-based multiplayer gameplay with customizable modes, in-game chat, leaderboards and more. Additionally, it has a full single player mode with light XP and weapon tier systems that takes you from Tokyo to Venice “to expose a lunatic who’s trying to tear the world to shreds.”

You can checkout more game deals in our daily roundups.


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Incase makes the move to manufacturing iPhone accessories in the United States, save 15%

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More and more companies are making the jump to manufacturing here in the United States, even Apple has brought some operations to Texas. We have detailed a number of individuals and businesses that are creating some really cool things stateside. Today, popular iPhone accessory maker Incase has announced that it has begun manufacturing in America, starting with its “Made in California” series.

Founded in 1997 in San Francisco, the return home is part of a focus by Incase on what is possible to create in California.

“In our nearly 20-year history, Incase has always been California-based, a heritage that’s had significant influence on our design point of view and one we’re proud to share with game-changing innovators like Apple,” said Incase CEO and Co-Founder Tony Held. “The Made in California series brings our story full-circle and we are excited to continue exploring what’s possible by working with manufacturing resources local to us.”


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Sling TV hits Xbox One with free one month trial for Live users, additional channels announced

 

Update (3/26 9:00am): A+E, History, H2 and Lifetime are now available on the “Best of Live TV” core package for $20/month.

We’ve covered Sling TV throughout the first few months of service, but the big news that everyone has been waiting for arrived today. The popular television streaming service is coming to Xbox One and Live users will be getting a free one month trial.

This news is noteworthy for two reasons, first opening up the service to the Xbox One brings the service to millions of additional homes across the United States. Secondly, Sling TV typically offers a seven day trial for new subscribers, today’s announcement brings an exclusive 30 day trial to Microsoft’s gaming console.

Sling TV has also announced new channel availability, head below for more details and the full PR.


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Considering an Apple Watch? Pebble’s original timepiece might be a better buy for iOS users

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Now that all the Apple Watch details are laid out for consumers, there is a big choice to be made for those interested in purchasing a timepiece with smart functionality. The Apple Watch will start at $349, with most of our readers electing for a $400 model, although early adoption levels seem to be low. If you’re thinking that a lower priced watch is more appropriate, it looks like you’re not alone. With the Pebble Time making a timely appearance on Kickstarter, many have chosen to back the lower priced option. In fact, following the Apple Watch keynote, Pebble saw a 167% funding increase.

Despite all the new releases and hype, the original Pebble is still capable of getting the job done at a more affordable price.


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Small States Review: Carved’s Live Edge iPhone 6 cases ensconce your device in one-of-a-kind raw wood, multiple giveaways

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Update (3/21 12:00pm): @RVDT_ and @chrislazattack are our winners. Thanks everyone for reading!

In a world full of throw away materials, it’s easy to get caught up buying another plastic iPhone case. But Northern Indiana’s Carved is taking extra steps to deliver a one-of-a-kind home for your device. While we’ve covered the company’s more traditional iPhone cases in the past, today we are taking a look at its Live Edge series. Made of raw pieces of wood, from a variety of locations across the United States, these cases truly blend the line between device and nature. Even more, the cases are all one-offs which means that the one you select is truly an original.


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The Atlas Wristband can discern between different fitness activities

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It’s a crowded world for those in the wearable and fitness tracking industry. Now with Apple breathing down the neck of the competition, it is key for these companies to find a way to stand out. Up and comer Atlas is beginning to detail its new Wristband, which offers a number of interesting features. This uniquely designed fitness tracker has one standout feature, the ability to recognize and track different workout activities using a proprietary algorithm. Not just, swimming versus running, but butterfly versus backstroke. Or push-ups versus triangle push-ups.

The design is fairly unique too, think Pebble Watch meets Nike Fuelband.


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Straight Outta Springfield: LEGO announces new Simpsons inspired sets

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LEGO has some new Simpsons sets coming, starting with a Kwik-E-Mart that looks pretty accurate. Set number 71016 will feature the store, a police car and mini figurines of various characters. The building itself can be opened to reveal and replica of the inside, complete with everything from the Kwik-E-Mart. This is the second Simpsons scene that LEGO has released, following up the popular “The Simpsons House” that is available for $200.

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Additionally, LEGO is slated to release a new line of mini-figures in May featuring a number of main characters and fan favorite secondary ones. This set of 16 figures includes Homer, Marge, Lisa, Bart and others such as Smithers and Groundskeeper Willie.

Moleskine announces new backpack and messenger style bags for travelers, artists, more

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We’re all familiar with Moleskine’s line of very popular notebooks, but the Italian company is making a foray into the bag and storage scene. Moleskine has announced a number of messenger and backpack style bags designed for both technology and analog tools or supplies.

After the break we have more information on all five models, plus details on availability and pricing.


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This Transformers Autobot look-alike projects a virtual Magic Trackpad on your desk

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In an attempt to improve the mouse, Serafim is utiziling Kickstarter to create a new projection-centric design that puts many of the multi-touch controls that Apple users are familiar with directly onto a surface. We have already seen projection keyboard solutions of varying size and price points, but the ODiN Aurora claims to be the “world’s first projection mouse“.


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Twelve South’s latest HiRise dock accommodates Apple Watch

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As the noise begins to die down from Monday’s Apple Watch announcement, we’re seeing a number of accessory makers reveal solutions for charging and storing the timepiece. Twelve South has announced its latest HiRise iteration, designed specifically for docking Apple Watch.

Much like previous models from Twelve South, the HiRise for Apple Watch elevates the device to a level that makes all buttons accessible for easier manipulation. It has a built-in cord management solution to keep the MagSafe charger in place, snaking through the aluminum base while keeping it out of sight.

Head below for full details on pricing, availability and more pictures.


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Apple laptops up to 25% off: MacBook Air from $750 w/ .edu, Pro w/ Retina display from $1,100 w/ .edu

Update (3/11 8:00am): Amazon has matched many of Best Buy’s sale prices, see below for specifics.

Best Buy is discounting a number of now previous generation Apple MacBooks following yesterday’s keynote address, which brought modest updates to its line of MacBook Air and Pro computers. Today’s offer takes up to 25% off the list price of both MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with Retina display models. You’ll be able to save an extra $50 with a .edu email address as well. Free shipping is available on all orders.

Here is the full list of discounts:

MacBook Air:

MacBook Pro w/ Retina display:


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The AMPL SmartBag carries a USB port in every pocket to charge all your devices

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Admittedly, I am a bit of a bag connoisseur. Hauling around all my gear requires a well thought-out solution that not only keeps my stuff organized but also looks good doing it. There are plenty of bag options out there, but less that offer charging solutions and even fewer that do it well. Today we’ve spotted a new company that is aiming to solve on-the-go charging challenges and device storage. Through Indiegogo, AMPL has raised over $213,000 towards “the worlds smartest backpack”.

The SmartBag has a number of unique and interesting design cues, most notably providing a USB port in every pocket. However, the real question is how many times can it recharge your gadgets?


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Griffin introduces an all-in-one charging solution for Apple Watch and iPhone

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Following Apple’s latest product announcement today, we are beginning to see companies release charging and storage solutions for the Apple Watch. Popular accessory maker Griffin Technology has revealed its WatchStand, which provides an angled charging platform for the watch and a base for displaying an iPhone. This is the first combination Watch and iPhone accessory that we’ve seen, although it’s unlikely to be the last.


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WaterField Designs offers an early look at Apple Watch accessories for home and travel

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With all the Apple Watch news and excitement today, we are beginning to see accessory makers release products meant to complement the latest product out of Cupertino. San Francisco-based bag company WaterField Designs is putting out its first line of Apple Watch related accessories. Today, the company previewed two products meant to serve as a home for your Apple Watch, while it is away from your wrist. Both the Leather Time Travel case and Apple WatchPad offer simplistic solutions to protecting this device during charging and when you’re away from home.

Head below for more information, pictures and full PR.


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Small States Review: Grovemade’s iPhone 6 dock puts extra emphasis on design and materials, giveaway worth $99

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Update (3/14 9:15am): @schellack wins the Grovemade Dock. Thanks everyone for reading and entering this week’s giveaway.

When it comes to Apple accessories, there are typically two options: materials that are designed to mirror the product and those are meant to complement that product in a different way. The former is typically anodized aluminum, plastic or a metal of some kind, while the latter has been trending towards natural materials like wood or fabrics. Personally, I love seeing natural materials complement modern electronics. There are so many companies manufacturing here in the United States that are taking advantage of the natural resources and skills here.

I’ve been able to spend the last few weeks with Grovemade’s latest dock for the iPhone 6. We’ve covered company’s story before and this time around are able to see its newest home for Apple’s phone.

Head below for full details, our review and to learn how you can win a Grovemade iPhone 6 dock for yourself.


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Sky Gamblers: Cold War is IGN’s free iOS game of the month ($5 value)

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IGN is now offering Ayptical Games’ Sky Gamblers: Cold War as its FREE game of the month. Regularly listed at $4.99 and with 4.5/5 stars from 2,257 ratings, you can now download this game for free on iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch via IGN’s deal page. We’ve seen this game go down as low as $1 a few times before, but never free.

Go back in time and re-write the Cold War with this “extensive” single and multiplayer mode game. With multiple game modes, users can enjoy campaign, survival, team deathmatch, capture the flag and more. Sky Gamblers: Cold War is compatible with Game Center and AirPlay, so you can play along with your friends or on the big screen.

Head below for more details and a trailer.


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