So Freaking Cool

Category: Tech

  • Sol Reader Ushers in Era of Lazy Literacy

    Sol Reader Ushers in Era of Lazy Literacy

    Remember when we actually held books to read??

    That’s what we’ll say if the Sol Reader ($350) succeeds. It’s a head-mounted display that promises to revolutionize the way we read books. Imagine having a Kindle strapped to your face, but without the awkwardness of explaining why you have a Kindle strapped to your face.

    If I’ve learned anything from Shark Tank, it’s what pain point are you solving. My guess is wanting to read in in bed without the hassle of holding a book or an e-reader. For real though, I’m intrigued.

    Priced at $350, the Sol Reader is not exactly a steal. But hey, can you really put a price on looking like a cyborg from a low-budget sci-fi movie? Plus, it promises a battery life of 30 hours on a single charge, making it a reliable companion for avid readers, travelers or people too lazy to walk to the outlet. Pre-orders are live now.

    YouTuber SadleyItsBradley tested one 6 months ago. Some cons are light leakage and discomfort while wearing the device. No one said being an early adopter was easy. Or comfortable. Also, this was six months ago, so let’s assume Sol worked through these issues.

    Another question is how do you highlight and type notes in the Sol Reader, export notes or annotate the text? I feel like such a nerd typing that last sentence.

    Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Do people really want computers or devices as wearable glasses? Well, if we look at the track record, it’s a mixed bag. Remember Google Glass? Yeah, neither do most people. I remember seeing a guy with these on. People were intrigued. It was a product ahead of its time, but it also made you look like you were auditioning for a Star Trek reboot. But with the Sol Reader, this is not a device you walk around all day wearing.

    Then there’s the Apple Vision Pro, a $3,499 headset that’s being touted as a “spatial computer.” It’s like Apple said, “What’s more expensive than our phones and laptops? Oh, I know, a headset!” But jokes aside, Apple is known for creating markets where none existed, and they’re betting big on this one. They’re even roping in developers to create apps for this device. It’s like they’re building a spaceship and asking others to come up with the destinations.

    Meanwhile, Snap Spectacles. They were supposed to be the next big thing, but they ended up being the next big thing… in the discount bin.

    Yet all these were supposed to be or are wearable glasses for different use cases, different situations.

    So, where does that leave the Sol Reader? To me, it’s back to I want to lie in bed and read without holding my phone. A niche market. For now. What if they have some sort of proprietary technology that lets you beam ads off to the side. They could sell ad space in the reader. That would be awesome. It’d be like reading at the beach while people constantly throw pamphlets at your face.

  • Matte vs Glossy: Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 Sparks a Debate

    Matte vs Glossy: Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 Sparks a Debate

    Samsung’s new 27-inch ViewFinity S9 monitor focuses on creative professionals with its 5K resolution and 99% DCI-P3 color gamut. Adjustability is a priority too – the display rotates to portrait orientation, while a matte coating aims to cut glare. And that matte coating is sparking some opinions.

    Connectivity options like Thunderbolt 5, USB-C, and Mini DisplayPort cater to workflow flexibility. Need to juice your laptop? The S9 provides 90W of power delivery through a direct connection. It even packs a built-in 4K SlimFit camera for your Zoom close-up.

    With smart calibrating features and stylish minimalist looks, the S9 caters to aesthetics-focused creators. Assuming you have room to fit this modern monolith among the sketchpads cluttering your workspace, that is. But for those seeking a streamlined do-it-all creative space, the ViewFinity makes your desk feel a little less…finite.

  • Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5 Is the Speaker That Makes Your Wallet Weep Harmoniously

    Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5 Is the Speaker That Makes Your Wallet Weep Harmoniously

    I’m sure the world needs another portable speaker, but if it’s coming from Bang & Olufsen, then we’ll take it. They’ve bestowed on us the Beosound A5 ($1099-$1199), an exquisite high-end portable speaker designed in collaboration with GamFratesi (Stine Gam and Enrico Fratesi out of Copenhagen, Denmark). This thing looks like it belongs in an art gallery. Check out its features.

    Design

    The Beosound A5 blends aluminum, wood, and paper fiber materials, reflecting a luxurious aesthetic. With two color options, Nordic Weave and Dark Oak, users can select a color that aligns with their personal taste. Plus, you know something’s classy when it has a color no one’s ever heard before. Nordic Weave could be a Swedish mattress fabric for all we know.

    Modularity and Customization

    The Beosound A5 is IP65 rated, offering water and dust resistance that makes it suitable for outdoor environments. At the beach or on a camping trip, this speaker can withstand the ever-increasing elements from climate change that will kill us in 50 years if we’re not careful because humans are so arrogant they think they can conquer the universe…while delivering impressive sound quality! The modular design allows for easy repairs and customization. Although, why customize a quality design with your non-Bang & Olufsen sensibilities.

    Software and Connectivity

    Bang & Olufsen’s Mozart software powers the Beosound A5 and offers the potential for future updates and expanded connectivity options. It’s compatible with popular streaming platforms such as AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect, ensuring seamless audio playback from various devices. Basically, yea, everything you would think a portable speaker does.

    Powerful Sound and Immersive Experience

    The Beosound A5 comes with a four-driver arrangement and four digital amplifiers that gives you 280 watts of the boom boom. The integration of beamforming audio technology further enhances the immersion, providing an enveloping soundstage that captivates listeners. It’s so immersive that you become a vibrating musical note.

    Long Battery Life and Wireless Charging

    The Beosound A5 provides an impressive playtime of up to 12 hours. Here, I’d say that’s a little skimpy? Twelve hours is probably doable, but on the low side. Although, the unit has other features like a top panel that doubles as a wireless phone charger.

    Availability and Pricing

    Obviously, it’s Bang & Olufsen so it doesn’t come cheap. Prices for the Nordic Weave version start at $1,099, while the Dark Oak version begins at $1,199.

  • Spacetop, Your AR Laptop

    Spacetop, Your AR Laptop

    Do you want to strap on a bulky headset to go on those zoom calls? Me thinks not. Here’s something less bulky.

    The Spacetop, developed by Sightful, is an innovative augmented reality laptop that eliminates the need to look like a dork. Contrary to its name, it has nothing to do with outer space. Instead, it offers a unique “augmented reality laptop” experience, projecting a spacious virtual desktop into the air. Seamlessly integrated with customized Nreal AR glasses, the screen-less keyboard deck allows users to perform tasks like moving windows, playing videos, and typing messages using familiar keyboard controls. The only way Google Sheets was meant to be used.

    Sightful claims that the Spacetop delivers a “100-inch laptop” experience by considering the projected image on a surface in front of the user. A subjective comparison, yes, but it emphasizes the potential of the Spacetop’s virtual workspace. CEO Tamir Berliner believes the Spacetop represents the future of computing, envisioning a world where augmented reality glasses replace traditional laptops. I can see this for sure. We have huge film projectors that we project onto the wall, what’s the diff? Only a pair of computer sunglasses, that’s what.

    To address those with glasses, Sightful offers prescription inserts for personalized vision correction. Once adjusted, the Spacetop OS provides an immersive computing experience, projecting a fixed virtual screen that adapts as the user moves their head. The impressive technology offers clear desktop viewing, maintains awareness of surroundings, and ensures private audio output through the AR glasses. With a sharp 1080p per eye display, the Spacetop enables discreet work in public spaces. *cough* porn.

    Despite its novel features, the Spacetop has limitations. Its field of view is limited, preventing users from seeing the full 100-inch screen at once. The device’s performance may be choppy, with occasional crashes and slow scrolling. It’s also better suited for web-focused tasks rather than resource-intensive activities like gaming or video editing.

    It’s a cool idea. On the outside, it looks like you’re an old person wearing BluBlocker Sunglasses with a telephone cord connected to your computer. But for sure I’d get this to live in the future.

    Early access to the Spacetop goes for $2,000 and you can enter your name here to see if you’re a “match”. That’s the word according to Sightful.

  • Dyson 360 Vis Nav

    Dyson 360 Vis Nav

    Dyson, the renowned brand for innovative home appliances, has made a grand return to the robot vacuum market with the introduction of the Dyson 360 Vis Nav. This intelligent device not only cleans your floors but also purifies the air in your home. With its advanced features and cutting-edge technology, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav is set to redefine the way we clean our homes. Let’s dive into the key highlights of this highly anticipated robot vacuum.

    Takeaways

    Advanced 360-Degree Vision System: Equipped with a sophisticated 360-degree vision system and a high-level processor, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav can map your home, detect dust, and identify areas that need extra attention. Its precise sensors and obstacle avoidance capabilities ensure seamless navigation around furniture and walls.

    Unmatched Suction Power: Powered by a newly redesigned Hyperdymium motor, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav delivers an astonishing 65 airwatts of suction power. This is approximately six times more powerful than any other robot vacuum available in the market. Say goodbye to stubborn dirt and debris as this device tackles the toughest cleaning tasks with ease.

    Enhanced Cleaning Performance: The D-shaped body of the 360 Vis Nav features a flat front edge, allowing it to reach into corners and glide along edges effortlessly. Its triple-action brush bar combines different bristles for effective cleaning on various surfaces, including carpets and hard floors. The soft silicone lip on the side ensures gentle cleaning without damaging your walls or skirting boards.

    Air Purification Capability: Unlike conventional vacuums, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav goes beyond cleaning by incorporating a HEPA filter. This filter captures 99.99% of microscopic particles as small as 0.1 micron, ensuring the vacuum releases purified air back into your home. Breathe cleaner and fresher air as you clean.

    Additional Features and Availability

    The Dyson 360 Vis Nav offers four suction modes to cater to different cleaning needs: Auto, Quick, Quiet, and Boost. Its user-friendly touchscreen and the MyDyson app provide convenient control and access to detailed cleaning reports and home mapping. While the battery life ranges up to 50 minutes on Auto mode, the vacuum can automatically dock itself for charging. However, it’s important to note that the bin needs manual emptying, although it can be done with just one hand.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Dyson 360 Vis Nav, priced at AU$2,399 (approximately $1,599 / £1,285), represents a significant investment for a robot vacuum that doesn’t offer self-emptying or mopping functionality. However, its powerful performance and advanced features make it an appealing choice for those seeking a thorough and efficient cleaning solution. Australians can look forward to purchasing the Dyson 360 Vis Nav from the Dyson Store starting May 25, with anticipated releases in the US and UK later in the year.

    Final Take

    The Dyson 360 Vis Nav is poised to revolutionize the robot vacuum market with its impressive capabilities. From its intelligent mapping and obstacle avoidance to its powerful suction and air purification, this device offers a comprehensive cleaning experience for your home. Although it comes at a premium price, its advanced features make it a worthy investment for those who prioritize cleanliness and air quality. Stay tuned for the release of this exceptional robot vacuum and elevate your cleaning routine to new heights.

  • Companion Is The AI Babysitter for Your Dog

    Companion Is The AI Babysitter for Your Dog

    Say hello to Companion, the all-in-one nanny and tutor for your beloved dog. This new smart device promises to keep your furry companion engaged and entertained while you go about your day. The humanization of pets, especially dogs, has been on the rise, and Companion is here to cater to this growing trend. Let’s delve into the key features and benefits of this revolutionary AI babysitter.

    Key Points

    • All-Day Engagement and Training: Companion provides scheduled and on-demand engagement for your dog with its interactive games, behavioral programs, and training sessions. Your dog will never have a dull moment with this innovative device.
    • Health Monitoring and Care: This smart device goes beyond entertainment. It keeps a close eye on your dog’s health, detecting any signs of pain, anxiety, or stress through advanced monitoring of movement and posture. You can ensure your furry friend’s well-being even when you’re not around.
    • AI-Powered Learning and Obedience: Companion utilizes cutting-edge AI hardware and machine learning techniques to teach your dog obedience. By playing commands using your voice, the device reinforces positive behavior while identifying any potential health concerns. It’s like having a personal trainer for your furry companion.
    • Catering to Pet Parents’ Needs: As pet parents, we often worry about leaving our dogs alone. Companion addresses this concern by offering an enriching and engaging experience for your furry friend. It not only keeps them entertained but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog through improved communication.

    The Story Behind Companion

    John Honchariw, the CEO and founder of Companion, developed this smart device for his rescue dog Boomer. With his engineering background and experience at companies like Google and Bain & Co., Honchariw wanted to create an interactive solution that could provide both fun and education for dogs. Boomer became the inspiration, and now he enjoys playing with Companion all day long, while Honchariw gains peace of mind knowing his furry friend is engaged, learning, and well-fed.

    The Growing Trend

    As society becomes more anthropomorphic, our desire to treat pets like children continues to grow. Companies are capitalizing on this trend by offering innovative products tailored to our pets’ needs. From video game systems for dogs to human-grade pet food, the market is expanding rapidly. The pet care industry is projected to reach a staggering $277 billion by 2030, indicating the significance of this growing market.

    The Future Outlook

    Companion has already received substantial funding of $14 million, with investors including Lerer Hippeau and Digitalis Ventures. The company’s advisory board comprises veterinarians specializing in dog training and the human-animal bond, ensuring that Companion is designed with expert knowledge and care. In the future, Companion aims to extend its offerings to cater to feline companions as well, creating a dedicated feline-oriented device.

    Final Take

    Companion is redefining the way we care for our furry friends. With its all-day engagement, training capabilities, and health monitoring, it’s the ultimate AI babysitter for dogs. As the humanization of pets continues to thrive, Companion caters to the needs of pet parents who seek enriching experiences for their dogs. Stay tuned for the official launch of this groundbreaking device and give your furry friend the attention and engagement they deserve.

  • Apple Vision Pro Is The Next Generation AR Headset

    Apple Vision Pro Is The Next Generation AR Headset

    Apple has unveiled its revolutionary augmented reality headset, Apple Vision Pro. This cutting-edge device seamlessly combines the real and digital worlds, setting a new standard for immersive experiences. With intuitive controls, advanced features, and a sleek design, the Vision Pro is poised to transform the way we interact with technology. Let’s explore the key highlights of this highly anticipated product.

    Key Points

    • Seamlessly blend real and digital worlds with Apple Vision Pro’s augmented reality capabilities.
    • Control the headset effortlessly using eye movements, gestures, and voice commands.
    • Starting at $3,499, the Vision Pro will be available for purchase early next year in the US market.
    • Experience both augmented and full virtual reality modes, expanding your possibilities.

    Unveiling a New Era of Interaction

    Apple Vision Pro introduces an innovative approach to control and interact with the digital environment. By harnessing eye movements, gestures, and voice commands, users can navigate and manipulate their surroundings with unprecedented ease. This hands-free control system enhances the user experience, making interactions more intuitive and natural.

    Price and Availability

    Priced at $3,499, the Apple Vision Pro offers a premium experience to users seeking the pinnacle of augmented reality technology. The device is scheduled to launch early next year, starting with availability in the US market. Apple enthusiasts around the world can anticipate its expansion to additional countries later in the year, bringing this groundbreaking technology to a global audience.

    Unparalleled Versatility

    The Apple Vision Pro seamlessly transitions between augmented reality and full virtual reality modes, offering users a versatile range of immersive experiences. Whether you’re looking to enhance your real-world surroundings with digital elements or completely immerse yourself in a virtual realm, the Vision Pro empowers you to explore and create in ways never before imagined.

    Aesthetics and Advanced Features

    With its sleek design, reminiscent of ski goggles, the Apple Vision Pro combines an elegant glass front with a durable aluminum frame. The headset features a remarkable array of hardware, including five sensors, 12 cameras, and dedicated 4K displays for each eye. These specifications ensure a visually stunning and immersive experience that surpasses expectations.

    Seamless Integration and Connectivity

    As expected from Apple, the Vision Pro seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices and accessories. Users can connect the headset to a Mac, unlocking a world of possibilities for productivity and entertainment within the virtual realm. Furthermore, Bluetooth compatibility allows for the use of accessories such as the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad, ensuring a familiar and efficient workflow.

    Social and Interactive Experience

    Apple understands the importance of human connection, even within the digital realm. With the Vision Pro’s EyeSight system, your eyes are displayed, enhancing the sense of presence and fostering a deeper connection with others. When fully immersed in virtual reality, a glowing screen discreetly conceals your eyes, indicating your unavailability for interaction. Additionally, the headset captures facial features to create a hyper-realistic digital avatar, further enhancing social experiences.

    Real-World Integration and 3D Projection

    The Vision Pro incorporates cutting-edge passthrough video technology, allowing users to experience the real world in vivid color while seamlessly projecting 3D objects into their surroundings. Imagine pulling objects from a message thread and interacting with them as if they were physically present—a truly immersive and mind-bending experience that blurs the lines between real and digital.

    Enhanced Communication and Collaboration

    With spatial audio capabilities, the Vision Pro revolutionizes communication. Arrange FaceTime participants as video tiles around the room, creating an engaging and immersive conferencing environment. Additionally, the built-in 3D camera enables users to capture and relive 180-degree videos, adding a new dimension to memories and experiences.

    Competition and Industry Praise

    Entering a market that is yet to fully take off, the Apple Vision Pro faces competition from the likes of Meta’s Quest 2 and Quest Pro headsets. However, industry insiders have praised Apple’s commitment to innovation and user experience, recognizing the Vision Pro as a groundbreaking addition to Apple’s product lineup.

    Final take

    Prepare to embark on a groundbreaking journey where reality and technology merge seamlessly. With the Apple Vision Pro, users can unlock unparalleled augmented and virtual reality experiences. Control the headset with a glance, gesture, or word, and witness the convergence of the physical and digital realms like never before. Stay tuned for the official release early next year, as Apple brings the future of augmented reality to your fingertips.

  • PhoneSoap 3 Review

    PhoneSoap 3 Review

    If you’re worried about the Covid-19 virus, PhoneSoap may give you peace of mind.

    Phones are germ factories. Research has shown that they carry 10 times the bacteria of a toilet seat. Do you enjoy putting a toilet seat up to your face multiple times a day? No one does.

    What is PhoneSoap?

    PhoneSoap proclaims to use UVC light to eradicate 99.99% of the bacteria on your phone. Think of UV rays from the sun as radio stations. You have UVA, UVB and UVC lights. UVA and UVB are the ultraviolet light rays from the sun we try to block with sunscreen UVC are unseen UV rays that never get to the earth. They stay trapped in the Earth’s ozone.

    According to the BBC, UVC “warps the structure of their genetic material and prevents the viral particles from making more copies of themselves.”

    Does PhoneSoap kill Covid-19?

    PhoneSoap hasn’t performed any scientific tests, so there’s no conclusive data. However, the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) has published a study that says far-UVC light can kill airborne viruses such as the coronavirus. David J. Brenner, the study’’s leader, previously showed that far-UVC light kills staph aka the methicillin-resistant S. aureus bacteria. 

    While far-UVC and UVC light are two different lights operating on two different wavelengths it shows promise that PhoneSoap may help eliminate the coronavirus on your phone.

    How does PhoneSoap work?

    It’s pretty simple. You place your phone in the box, press a button and ten minutes later, the PhoneSoap’s UVC light destroys all the bacteria inside. Well, 99.99% of them.

    Functionally, it doesn’t take up a lot of space. 

    Your alternatives would be wiping your phone down with a sanitizer tissue, but when’s the last time you actually found one of those??

    Not only can you sanitize your phone with it, you can place keys, wallets, AirPods, anything that fits inside and anything that’s come in contact with the outside world.

    PhoneSoap retails for $80. You can preorder the PhoneSoap 3 now for shipment later in May. 

    Is PhoneSoap safe to use?

    Yes. There’s no water or chemicals in the PhoneSoap. Only UVC light. PhoneSoap says on their website that prolonged exposure to UVC light may hurt plastics. However, since you’re only leaving your phone inside for 10 minutes, PhoneSoap states your phones won’t get damaged.

    Plus, PhoneSoap has an auto-shutdown function that stops the PhoneSoap after 10 minutes.

    Additionally, no rays escape the unit, so PhoneSoap says there’s no harm to you or your family by being around it.

    Should I buy a PhoneSoap?

    If your peace of mind is worth $80, you should buy a PhoneSoap. Think of where you use your phone: public restrooms, your bathroom at home, around the kitchen. You wouldn’t ever take your toilet into the kitchen would you? 

    The PhoneSoap is a must-have now during this virus. You can order PhoneSoap here.