Author Archives: Christen Costa

Zelda and LEGO Fans Rejoice: LEGO Unveils The Great Deku Tree Playset

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Zelda fans, the wait is finally over. LEGO and Nintendo have just announced an official playset based on The Legend of Zelda, and it’s everything you hoped for and more. The rumors were true, and the Great Deku Tree set is here, ready to bring a piece of Hyrule into your home.

The Great Deku Tree Set

The Great Deku Tree 2-in-1 set includes a whopping 2,500 pieces and is available for preorder now at $299.99, with shipping starting in September. This set allows you to build two iconic versions of the Great Deku Tree: the green summer foliage version from Ocarina of Time and the pink spring cherry blossoms version from Breath of the Wild.

Unique Play Features

  • Ocarina of Time Build: Features the Great Deku Tree in Kokiri Forest, complete with a section inspired by the game’s first dungeon and a replica of Link’s house in Kokiri Village.
  • Breath of the Wild Build: Includes hidden Koroks and the Master Sword in its pedestal, along with an overgrown, ancient look.

The set comes with various versions of Link, including child Link and adult Link in the green Hero of Time tunic from Ocarina of Time, and Link in the blue Champion’s tunic from Breath of the Wild. Other characters and accessories include a buildable Skulltula, Hestu with his maracas, fairies, Princess Zelda, and more. Plus, the set has interactive features that let you animate the tree’s facial expressions.

Fan Demand and Official Release

Fans have been eagerly waiting for an official Zelda-themed LEGO set. Despite rejecting fan-submitted ideas for years and even banning Zelda submissions in 2022 due to licensing conflicts, LEGO has finally delivered. The demand for this set has been high, with rumors about an official release starting to circulate back in February of last year.

This release joins other Nintendo properties like Mario, Animal Crossing, and Donkey Kong that have received the LEGO treatment in recent years.

Pricing and Availability

The LEGO Legend of Zelda Great Deku Tree set is available for preorder now at $299.99, with an official release date of September 1. For more details and to secure your preorder, visit LEGO’s official product page.

With this launch, LEGO and Nintendo continue to expand their collaboration, bringing beloved gaming worlds to life in brick form. Whether you’re a long-time Zelda fan or new to the series, the Great Deku Tree set is a must-have for your collection.

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Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor

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The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor aims to help users keep tabs on the air quality inside their homes, ensuring a healthier living environment.

Key Features

The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor tracks a range of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), humidity, and temperature. It provides real-time updates and alerts through the Alexa app, allowing users to take immediate action if air quality falls below healthy levels.

Integration with Alexa

As expected, the monitor integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s Alexa. Users can ask Alexa about the current air quality or set up routines to automatically adjust other smart home devices based on the monitor’s readings. For example, if the air quality drops, Alexa can trigger an air purifier or fan to improve ventilation.

Easy Setup and Usage

Setting up the Smart Air Quality Monitor is straightforward. Users simply plug in the device, connect it to the Alexa app, and follow the on-screen instructions. The monitor is designed to be user-friendly, providing clear, easy-to-understand insights into your home’s air quality.

Health and Wellness Focus

With increasing awareness about indoor air pollution and its effects on health, the Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor arrives at a critical time. Poor air quality can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. By keeping track of air quality, this device helps users create a healthier home environment.

Pricing and Availability

The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor is available for purchase now, priced at $69.99. It’s a small investment for a significant step towards better health and well-being at home.

For more details and to purchase the device, visit Amazon’s official product page.

Why It Matters

As smart home technology continues to evolve, devices like the Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor highlight the potential of these innovations to improve daily life. By monitoring and improving air quality, Amazon is helping users create safer, healthier living spaces, showcasing the growing importance of health-focused smart home products.

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Sonos Ace Headphones, Yes, Sonos Now Makes Headphones

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Sonos has just dropped its first-ever headphones, the Sonos Ace. These are over-ear Bluetooth headphones packed with features like Snapdragon Sound, aptX Lossless, Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and active noise cancellation. They also support USB-C lossless audio. One notable omission? They don’t support Sonos’ multi-room system.

Many of us thought Sonos would make these headphones integrate seamlessly with their other products, like the Sonos Roam, where music would auto-switch between devices as you move around. Sadly, that’s not the case. Instead, they function like high-end noise-cancelling headphones via Bluetooth. However, they do have one cool Sonos-specific trick.

The Sonos Ace comes with Wi-Fi built-in, allowing them to connect to a Sonos soundbar for TV audio in head-tracked spatial audio. A quick press of a button lets you enjoy your TV’s sound in a virtual home theater setup, perfect for not disturbing others. This feature currently works with the Sonos Arc, with future support coming for the Beam, Beam Gen 2, and Ray.

You can pre-order the Sonos Ace now for $449 / £449 / AU$699, and they’ll ship on June 5, 2024. Yes, it’s a hefty price, but they’re going toe-to-toe with the likes of Bose QuietComfort Ultra and AirPods Max.

In classic Sonos fashion, these headphones come in black or off-white. They feature 40mm dynamic drivers, similar to the older Sony WH-1000XM4 but not the newer XM5 which use 30mm drivers. The Sonos Ace headphones are sleek and don’t stick out much when worn. At 11oz / 312g, they’re not the lightest but also not too heavy. The earpads are replaceable, which is a nice touch.

The package includes a hard case made from recycled materials and a pouch for cables. For connectivity, you get Bluetooth 5.4 with multi-point pairing, Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless, and USB-C for lossless audio. There’s no 3.5mm port, but you do get a USB-C-to-3.5mm cable in the box. The Wi-Fi connection is solely for the soundbar link.

They support Dolby Atmos from any compatible Bluetooth device, including iPhones, with head-tracked spatial audio. Battery life is solid at 30 hours with ANC on, and a quick three-minute charge gives you three hours of playback.

Control is via a ‘Content Key’ on the right earcup for volume and playback, with a separate button for switching between TV audio and Bluetooth. No Sonos app needed for setup, but you will need the companion app for head-tracked spatial audio and EQ adjustments. A ‘TrueCinema’ mode is coming soon, promising to tweak spatial audio to better match your living room setup.

One downside? There’s no Find My support, which would’ve been handy for such a pricey pair of headphones.

The Sonos Ace competes closely with Bose QuietComfort Ultra and AirPods Max. They bring long battery life, broad aptX support, lossless USB-C, and Dolby Atmos spatial audio. From early impressions, sound quality and noise cancellation seem top-notch. However, there are some letdowns, especially for Apple users and deep Sonos ecosystem fans. No wireless lossless audio from iPhone and no multi-room Wi-Fi support are notable gaps.

Sonos is open to customer feedback, and while multi-room support isn’t planned, it might come in the future. Despite some disappointments, the Sonos Ace could attract a lot of interest, especially if you’re okay with the premium price.

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New Device Aims to Reduce Hospital Visits for Cancer Patients

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A revolutionary device designed to minimize hospital visits for cancer patients has received regulatory approval. Known as Liberty, this device enables patients to perform blood tests and upload the results from the comfort of their homes, without needing supervision.

Patient and Clinician Feedback

Users of the Liberty device report that it significantly reduces the need for exhausting hospital trips, while healthcare professionals believe it could enhance NHS efficiency. Following successful trials at the Christie Hospital in Manchester, the device is set to be rolled out at 12 NHS sites.

However, Cancer Research UK cautions that the device has only been tested on a limited number of patients. They emphasize the need for further trials to determine its broader applicability in cancer care.

Simplifying Blood Tests

Cancer treatment often requires frequent blood tests to monitor various health indicators, such as haemoglobin levels and white blood cell counts. Lynn Thompson, a trial patient who has been battling ovarian and bowel cancer since 2017, expressed relief at being able to perform some of these tests at home.

“The device has significantly reduced my stress and anxiety,” said the 52-year-old. “It’s incredibly simple to use, and it freed me from the physically and mentally draining routine of hospital visits, especially with my fear of needles.”

How It Works

The Liberty device, roughly the size of a small printer, allows patients to perform a simple finger-prick blood test. The analysis is then automatically sent to hospital teams. Dr. Sacha Howell, a senior lecturer in medical oncology at the University of Manchester, highlighted the potential benefits: increased patient convenience and cost savings for the NHS.

While The Christie Hospital has implemented local phlebotomy units to bring blood tests closer to patients’ homes, these units still require staffing. The ability for patients to conduct tests at home could lead to significant efficiencies.

Initial Trial Results

Early trials at The Christie Hospital show promising results, although the number of participants has been limited. The home study involved 22 patients, while regulatory approval trials included 470 patients. Cancer Research UK urges caution, noting that more extensive research is necessary to confirm the device’s effectiveness and clinical utility.

Future Prospects

Dr. Toby Basey-Fisher, CEO of Entia, the company behind Liberty, is optimistic about the device’s impact. “This is the world’s first blood count analyzer that patients can use at home,” he said. “By providing insights into patients’ health, it empowers healthcare professionals to address complications preemptively, reducing hospitalizations and treatment interruptions.”

As Liberty begins wider deployment, ongoing research and patient feedback will be crucial in assessing its long-term benefits and integration into standard cancer care practices.

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PPSSPP PSP Emulator Now Available on iOS App Store

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PPSSPP, a popular app for emulating PSP games, has made its debut on the iOS App Store, joining the expanding roster of retro game emulators available for iOS users. Despite being around for nearly 12 years, PPSSPP was previously accessible only through unofficial methods. Developer Henrik Rydgård announced the release, expressing gratitude to Apple for easing its policies to allow retro game console emulators on the store. This change follows Apple’s update to its developer guidelines in early April, which has since seen the approval of emulators for Game Boy, DS, and PS1 games.

Free and Paid Versions

The PPSSPP app is free to download, but Rydgård has mentioned to The Verge that a $5 gold version is in the works. While the paid version on Android includes a few extra features, its primary purpose is to support Rydgård’s continued development of the emulator. The current iOS version does not support the Magic Keyboard for iPad due to initial compatibility being achieved via an undocumented API. Additionally, the Retro Achievements feature is not available yet, but Rydgård plans to reintroduce it in future updates.

Performance and Limitations

Unlike its counterparts on other platforms, the App Store version of PPSSPP does not support the Just-in-time (JIT) compiler, which enhances code execution efficiency. This limitation is due to Apple’s current rules, which, unless changed, will prevent JIT support in the iOS version. However, Rydgård reassures users that most iOS devices are sufficiently powerful to run nearly all PSP games at full speed, so performance differences may be minimal.

Game Availability

As with other emulators, PPSSPP on iOS includes only the emulator software. Users must source their own game files, as Apple prohibits the distribution of games without proper licensing. This means players will need to find their own PSP game files to use with the emulator.

With the launch of PPSSPP on the iOS App Store, fans of retro gaming now have more options for enjoying classic PSP titles on their iPhones and iPads. The continued development and updates promise to enhance the user experience and functionality over time.

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Airbus Unveils Innovative Racer: A Hybrid Aircraft Blending Helicopter and Airplane Features

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Airbus has introduced a groundbreaking new aircraft called the Racer, designed to expedite flight times for emergency responders by combining the best features of helicopters and airplanes. The Racer, which stands for Rapid and Cost-Effective Rotorcraft, features airplane-like wings, forward-facing rotors, and helicopter-style top blades, giving it a unique hybrid appearance.

First Public Demonstration

For the first time, Airbus showcased its one-off working demonstration model of the Racer in Marseille, France. This event follows the release of new flight images and videos earlier in the week, highlighting the Racer’s capabilities. The aircraft demonstrated its ability to take off and land vertically like a helicopter, eliminating the need for a long runway. Notably, the Racer successfully completed its maiden flight in April.

Clean Sky 2 Collaboration

In an email to The Verge, Laurence Petiard, head of external communications at Airbus Helicopters, shared that a special ceremony was held for the company’s partners in the Clean Sky 2 project. This initiative involves collaboration with 40 partners across 13 European countries. Attendees at the event witnessed the Racer in both flight and static display, marking a significant milestone for the project.

Environmental and Performance Goals

The European Union’s Clean Sky 2 program aims to promote the development of low-emission air transport solutions, ensuring the competitiveness of Europe’s aeronautical industry on the global stage. Julien Guitton, head of the Clean Sky 2 project, emphasized the balance between high-speed performance and environmental impact. Simulations indicate that the Racer can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 20% compared to conventional aircraft of similar weight, meeting the stringent requirements of Clean Sky 2.

Hybrid Aircraft Development

The Racer demonstrator – developed as part of the European Clean Sky 2 research programme – has an optimal blend of high performance and reduced operating costs.

Airbus has a history of developing hybrid test aircraft, including the X3 demonstrator from 2010. While Boeing’s V-22 Osprey, equipped with tilt-rotors, achieves higher flight speeds, it is primarily designed for military purposes and is considerably bulkier. Additionally, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft have been in development for years, yet the anticipated era of flying taxis has not yet materialized.

The Racer represents a significant advancement in hybrid aircraft technology, promising faster response times for emergency services while aligning with environmental sustainability goals. As the Racer continues to develop, it may pave the way for new innovations in air travel and transport.

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Apple iPad Pro with M4 Chip Announced, Price and Availability

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Apple has recently introduced the latest iteration of its iPad Pro, featuring substantial upgrades that significantly enhance both performance and visual experience. This announcement, made during Apple’s special event, showcases the introduction of the new M4 chip and two OLED panels, among other impressive enhancements.

Enhanced Performance with the M4 Chip

Central to the new iPad Pro is the M4 chip, which marks a significant advancement in Apple’s hardware technology. This chip is four times faster than the previous M2 chip, offering unprecedented speed and efficiency. This boost in performance makes the iPad Pro more capable than ever for professional-grade tasks, high-end gaming, and intensive multimedia projects.

Revolutionary Display Technology

The new iPad Pro models feature two OLED panels, which are not only thinner than the previous LCD panels but also superior in display quality. These OLED screens provide an exceptional brightness level of 1000 nits for standard HDR content and can peak at 1600 nits for HDR, ensuring vivid, lifelike images under various lighting conditions.

Camera and Connectivity Enhancements

Apple has also upgraded the iPad Pro’s camera system, equipping it with a 12MP front-facing camera that promises improved clarity for video calls and content creation. For connectivity, the new models include 5G capabilities with eSIM technology, offering faster internet speeds and better network performance on the go. The addition of 5G is a game-changer for professionals and creatives who need reliable connectivity wherever they are.

Pricing and Availability

The pricing for the new iPad Pro starts at $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model, both equipped with 256GB of storage. For those requiring mobile connectivity, the 5G cellular models are available for an additional $200, featuring eSIM technology for enhanced connectivity. Go here to preorder today. Units expected to ship May 15, 2024.

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Insta360 X4: A Look at the Future of 360-Degree Action Cameras

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Insta360 has recently launched the X4, its latest entry into the action camera market, and it’s a device that both tech enthusiasts and content creators should take note of. The X4 isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it represents a significant leap in 360-degree video technology, with features that cater to a broad spectrum of users—from professional filmmakers to adventure vloggers. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the X4 ($499.99) a noteworthy addition to the world of action cameras.

8K Video Capability: What Does It Mean for Users?

One of the standout features of the Insta360 X4 is its 8K video resolution. This advancement isn’t just about sharper images; it’s about creating immersive experiences that capture every detail of the environment. The higher resolution allows users to zoom in on specific points of interest in post-production without significant loss of detail, which is a game-changer for post-production editing.

Build and Design: Tailored for Tough Conditions

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The design of the X4 emphasizes durability without compromising on usability. Designed to endure extreme environments, the camera is suited for everything from underwater exploration to high-altitude treks. This ruggedness ensures that the X4 can go wherever the user goes, making it a reliable companion for capturing hard-to-get shots in challenging conditions.

User Experience: Balancing Professional Needs with Simplicity

Insta360 has worked to balance advanced features with user-friendly operations in the X4. The interface is designed to be intuitive, allowing users of all skill levels to operate the camera with ease. This simplicity extends to the connectivity features of the X4, which streamline the process of transferring, editing, and sharing videos. Such features are crucial for professionals who need to quickly turnaround content, as well as for casual users who want to share their experiences without fuss.

The Creative Potential of 360-Degree Content

The X4 isn’t just about capturing video; it’s about redefining what can be done with a camera. The 360-degree capture ability opens up a plethora of creative possibilities. For filmmakers, it means the ability to create interactive video experiences where viewers can choose where they look. For travel bloggers, it offers the chance to immerse their audience in the environment as if they were there.

Conclusion

The Insta360 X4 sets itself apart in the crowded action camera market through its combination of high-resolution video, durable construction, and ease of use. It offers significant value to those looking to push the boundaries of what’s possible with video content. As we continue to see advancements in VR and immersive media, tools like the X4 will become indispensable in creating next-generation content that captivates and engages audiences in new and profound ways.

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ESCORT Has a New Flagship Radar Detector: the MAX 4

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ESCORT, a prominent name in radar and laser detection technology, recently introduced the MAX 4 radar detector, setting a new benchmark in the industry. The MAX 4 is not just an update but a significant upgrade over the previous model, the MAX 3, offering substantial improvements that enhance both the functionality and user experience.

Enhanced False Alert Filtering

One of the standout features of the MAX 4 is its advanced false alert filtering accuracy. Compared to the MAX 3, the MAX 4 offers twice the accuracy in distinguishing between false alarms and genuine threats. This enhancement is critical, as it significantly reduces unnecessary distractions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road without the constant interruptions of misleading alerts.

Superior Detection Range

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The detection range of the MAX 4 has also received a considerable boost, thanks to the integration of Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) technology. This technology enhances the sensitivity of the radar detector, extending its range to detect radar signals earlier and more reliably than the MAX 3. This early detection is crucial for drivers, giving them ample time to adjust their speed and avoid potential tickets.

Drive Smarter® Community Integration

In addition to hardware improvements, the MAX 4 also emphasizes community-driven enhancements through the Drive Smarter® app. This platform allows users to share and receive real-time alerts about road conditions and radar detections. While the MAX 3 was compatible with similar community features, the MAX 4 enhances this connectivity, fostering a more engaged and informed community of drivers.

Streamlined User Experience with Smart Connectivity

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The MAX 4 seamlessly integrates with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, projecting critical alerts directly onto the vehicle’s infotainment system. This integration was also a part of the MAX 3 but has been refined in the MAX 4 to offer a more streamlined and less intrusive user experience, keeping drivers informed without overwhelming them.

Price and Availability

The ESCORT MAX 4 is a significant leap forward from the MAX 3, introducing critical technological advancements that refine and enhance the radar detecting experience. With its superior false alert filtering, extended detection range, and enhanced community features, the MAX 4 stands out as an indispensable tool for drivers aiming to navigate roads more safely and efficiently. Priced at $399.99, it is now available for purchase online and will be in stores nationwide by summer.

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iRobot Roomba Combo Essential Robot Vacuum and Mop is the Budget Combo You Need

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What it is

The Roomba Combo Essential is a robot vacuum and mop that offers a 4-stage cleaning system to clean hard floors in one sweep. It features a V-shaped multi-surface brush, an Edge-Sweeping Brush, and a pump-fed microfiber mop pad. With 18 times more suction power than its predecessors, it provides customizable cleaning with three power levels, allowing users to choose between a quieter cleaning mode or a more powerful vacuum. The battery can last up to 120 minutes, and it can automatically return to its charging station to recharge. It is available for $274.99 (currently on sale for $219.99).

Who it’s targeted at

The Roomba Combo Essential is designed for individuals seeking a convenient and affordable solution for automated floor cleaning. In short, until recently combo vacuum and mops were very expensive.

Similar products

Similar products in the market include other robot vacuums with mopping capabilities, such as the iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ and the Roomba Combo j9+ (though those are more expensive). These offer similar cleaning systems with additional features like automatic dirt disposal, smart mapping, and more advanced controls through the iRobot mobile app.

Things to consider

  • Cleaning efficiency: Consider your cleaning needs and whether the Roomba Combo Essential’s combination of vacuuming and mopping will meet them.
  • Navigation and mapping: The robot’s ability to navigate around obstacles and under furniture can vary. Ensure it meets your home’s requirements.
  • Battery life: With 120 minutes of battery life, the robot should suit most households, but larger spaces might need additional recharges.
  • Control options: The iRobot Home app allows you to control the robot and schedule cleaning sessions, while voice commands with Amazon Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant add convenience.
  • Price: The Roomba Combo Essential is priced competitively, but compare it with other models to ensure it meets your needs and budget.

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