Jon Turi
Articles by Jon Turi
Engadget giveaway: Win a set of refinished AirPods courtesy of BlackPods!
AirPods have been around for a while, so many of us have gotten over the slightly weird look of them (with at least one notable exception). While Apple still has yet to expand the options beyond plain white, BlackPods has stepped in to fill a need. The company offers three-phase military-spec refinishing services for these buds, letting you transform the look with Stealth (matte black), Classic (high gloss black) and Aero (space gray). If you already have a set of AirPods, you can mail them in for refinishing, or simply buy a new pair through BlackPods directly. Since you'll be walking around with these hanging out of your ears, this seems like an upgrade worth its salt, just like a nice pair of specs. This week, BlackPods has provided us with a set of Stealth and Classic models for two lucky readers. They even threw in a pair of silicon protective cases (again, in black) so you can go into stealth mode with a bit of added protection. Just head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to five chances at winning a less glaringly obvious pair of AirPods courtesy of BlackPods. Winners: Congratulations to Bob R. of Broadview Heights, OH and Joe W. of Mounds View, MN!
Boosted's 2018 line includes faster and shorter electric skateboards
Boosted has been running some pretty sweet discounts on its line of electric skateboards lately, but those are days coming to a close with today's new product launch for 2018. There are four models this time around, and two versions are even smaller than your standard skateboard deck. That's the Mini, which will arrive in both standard (S) and extended range (X), along with two updated versions of the popular longboard model. Those are the Plus, which comes with extended range as a standard, and a premium Stealth version which comes with a speed boost and grey-toned color scheme. That grey will be the indicator for Boosted's premium versions, which also includes the upcoming Mini X. We're looking forward to testing these out in the coming weeks and will fill you in on the details then. For now, let's take a look at the specs and what's new for Boosted and its business outlook for 2018.
Engadget giveaway: Win a Molekule air purifier!
Breathing is a pretty important aspect of life and when poor air quality or allergens get in the way, it can make for a miserable time. Molekule has a new tool in the battle against air pollutants with its PECO-based air purifier. The Photo Electrochemical Oxidation (PECO) process breaks down particles using light and helps eliminate pollutants 1000x smaller than those captured by standard HEPA filter devices. The Molekule handles allergens, mold, bacteria, viruses and airborne chemicals, which all get eliminated rather than stored in a filter, providing you with a clean air environment in rooms up to 600 square feet. This week, Molekule has given us one if its silver pylons of purity for one lucky reader, so they can breathe easier even in the midst of allergy season. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this Molekule air purification system. Winner: Congratulations to Sreejesh U. of Hoboken, NJ -- TBC
Engadget giveaway: Win an outdoors package with goTenna and more!
As we shake off the shackles of winter and ease into the more clement weather of spring and summer, it's time for travel plans to take shape. Enjoying the outdoors doesn't mean you have to ditch all the mod cons, though. This week, we have a trio of outdoors items for two winners that will let you keep the tech while you head off-the-grid. The goTenna Mesh communicator lets you stay in touch with others without a cell signal by sending texts and GPS details over radio waves. The radius of communication is a few miles when you're in the sticks, but can expand when there are more devices around. BioLite's Charge 20 is a rugged portable battery to help keep your phone and other devices topped up. And if you're out capturing footage with a camera, the GNARBOX storage unit and mobile editing software can turn some of those quiet hours in the outdoors into casual productivity without needing a laptop (iOS / Android). It even supports editing of 4K video and RAW photos. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to five chances at winning one of these outdoors tech packages including the goTenna Mesh, BioLite Charge 20 and GNARBOX editing set up. Good luck! Winners: Congratulations to Arin W. of West Lafayette, IN and Francis K. of Depew, NY!
Engadget giveaway: Win a Logitech Harmony Elite and Google Home Mini!
Universal remote controls have been around for a while, but with a product like the Logitech Harmony Elite, simplicity and future-proofing go hand-in-hand. The Elite's Hub system lets you control IR, Bluetooth and even network-based products beyond your home entertainment system. Not only can you condense your media remotes into one easy-to-set-up package, but your power extends to connected home products like Philips Hue lights or Nest thermostats. That power goes one step further when you link a smart speaker like Google Home Mini to the Hub. Now that single remote can get a little dusty as you turn on your TV and navigate to preset channels using your voice alone. Logitech has provided us with its Harmony Elite and a Google Home Mini for two winners this week, so they can sample they joys of smart home controls and deepen that groove in the couch cushion. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this Logitech Harmony Elite universal remote and smart speaker combo. Good luck! Winners: Congratulations to David F. of Parsippany, NJ and Carlos L. of Boynton Beach, FL!
Engadget giveaway: Win a Samsung Galaxy S9 courtesy of Speck!
Samsung's recently released Galaxy S9 smartphones have received a good amount of praise, often listed among the best Android devices you can buy. The camera performs well in low light and you get speedy overall performance packed into a sleek design. These features do come at a premium price and anyone making the investment should know that a case is a wise move. That's why this week, Speck has offered a Samsung Galaxy S9 in midnight black along with its own Presidio Folio Leather case (also black) for one lucky reader. This is the company's first 10-foot drop protective folio case, so it should keep your handset safe in most daily scenarios. It also includes a hidden slot for three cards, helping your phone double as wallet and portable computer. (The case will also be available for the iPhone X, if Android's not your thing.) You have up to three chances at winning a Samsung Galaxy S9 and Speck Presidio Folio Leather case when you hit up the Rafflecopter widget below. Good luck! Winner: Congratulations (TBC) to Atif S. of Great Falls, VA!
Engadget giveaway: Win a pair of Sonos One speakers courtesy of TurboTax!
It's that time of year again: Tax season! But don't fret, with all the intelligent services being offered now, there's less to worry about than ever. The Intuit TurboTax app and web interface let you complete your taxes without even leaving the house -- but you can if you use the mobile app and can even finish later on your PC. The household name in e-filing services has also launched its TurboTax Live feature this year. Now you can get virtual assistance from a network of certified tax preparers, just in case you hit a snag or really want to get the most out of your refund. There's even an Alexa Skill to check the status of your refund. So this week, TurboTax has provided us with a set of Sonos One smart speakers so you can keep track of that money just by asking. Plus, there's a gift card for TurboTax Live support which can give you some assistance maximizing your refund while minimizing any potential issues. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this speaker and tax preparation combo -- along with some peace of mind! Winner: Congratulations to Michael M. of Fort Collins, CO!
Engadget giveaway: Win a limited edition Essential PH-1 smartphone!
Andy Rubin's company Essential has steered around the rat race of Android handset manufacturers, instead focusing on smaller runs with a more handcrafted approach. This latest batch of Essential PH-1 smartphones is emblematic of those goals. This trio of new limited edition colors was sourced from a single experienced Japanese vendor with an eye on quality control and consistency. The Ocean Depths, Copper Black and Stellar Gray exteriors offer beautiful design touches to parallel the edge-to-edge QHD display. In addition to looks, you get a clean version of Android, 128GB of storage, a 13-megapixel rear camera and plenty of other high-end features. All this comes at an approachable price of just $499 ($599 for limited edition colors while they last). This week, three lucky winners will each get a PH-1 in one of the three new colorways. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning one of these special edition Essential PH-1 smartphones. Winners: Congratulations to Scott E. of Owasso, OK; Howard Y. of Mountain View, CA and Danial A. of Kanata ON, Canada!
Engadget giveaway: Win a pro controller package from Scuf Gaming!
Edge. That's what helps elevate pro gamers to the next level and Scuf Gaming offers a lot of it in its competitive controllers. The company has beefed-up versions for both PlayStation and Xbox, so you can focus on natural moves with custom settings that work for you. This week, Scuf has provided us with a B.O.T.G bundle along with a second Impact controller (both for PlayStation / PC). As always, these are built to spec at Scuf workshops in the US and UK. The bundle provides limited edition swag, a custom B.O.T.G. Impact controller, cabling and thumbstick and ring & lock kits. Plus, there's the additional Impact controller so you don't have to roll solo. These competitive units offer on-the-fly interchangeable thumbsticks, adjustable trigger mechanisms and four paddles for improved reach. You can play via Bluetooth or a wired set-up with improved cable retention to avoid accidental breaks in the action. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below to give your gaming a professional boost. You'll have up to three chances at winning all the edge you'll need for your next mission! Winner: Congratulations to Geo W. of Kittery, ME!
Engadget giveaway: Win an HD Pan & Tilt camera courtesy of VTech!
Once you leave the house, there's no looking back, at least not unless you've outfitted your crib with a remote monitoring system. VTech offers a an easy-to-use solution with its HD Pan & Tilt camera, which provides live streaming video and two-way talk via the MyVTech Cams app. This Wi-Fi device offers in-app gesture controls to pan and zoom, giving you a clear view of your at-home surroundings, even in the dark. Along with the peace of mind that video provides, you can also have a two-way chat with any person or pet in the room (comprehension is up to you). You can also get motion alerts while you're away, for in-home security. This week, VTech has provided us with one of its VC931 HD Pan & Tilt cameras for one lucky reader. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning some extra peace of mind with this VTech monitoring camera. Winner: Congratulations to Chris Z. of Milton, WA!
Engadget giveaway: Win an Anki Cozmo robot and Overdrive racing set!
When the holiday season rolls around, it's always a good excuse to get in a little play time. Picking up a few items for yourself or guaranteeing second-hand fun after you gift them is a win-win scenario. This week, smart-gadget maker Anki has passed along some top "toys" for two lucky readers. There's a liquid-metal Cozmo Collector's edition robot, which can be an entertaining companion as well as a platform to limber up your coding skills. When you're feeling a bit brawnier and competitive, there's the Fast & Furious Edition Anki Overdrive racing set. Just connect your mobile device (iOS / Android) to control one of these special edition vehicles, each with special tools, tricks and tactics available to help battle the competition. Anki has provided both a Cozmo Collector's Edition robot and Fast & Furious Edition Overdrive racing set for two winners. Just head down to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning a set of smart Anki products. Winners: Congratulations to Charles B. of Comstock Park, MI and David G. of Indianapolis, IN!
Soundboks 2 is the massive Bluetooth boombox to rule them all
In February 2016, a new kind of Bluetooth speaker arrived on Kickstarter and easily met its goal. It was called Soundboks, a massive portable battery-powered unit that was built to rock a party and survive the experience with its metal grille and roadie case-style edges. A few months ago, the Soundboks 2 was launched with a series of improvements, including an audio boost up to 122 dB. This speaker has a rock-solid build and owes its beefy output to two 10-inch woofers, a soft dome tweeter and three amplifiers with boost converters to help maximize sound and efficiency. This thing is a monster, but in a good way and I just had to try it out. It's definitely a powerful sound system, but it doesn't come cheap at $899. This speaker wasn't made for everyone, though. It's eminently useful for things like street side busking, flashmob parties, mobile DJing and beach bonfire bashes, while it may be overkill for listening to NPR podcasts in the kitchen. Modern-day Radio Raheems will enjoy the freshly redesigned LiFePO4 battery, which is rated for about eight hours on a charge at full volume and 40 (or more) hours if you're keeping it chill.
Algoriddim's djay Pro 2 adds AI for DJ cruise control
Algoriddim has been improving its DJ software consistently over the past few years for both mobile and desktop, with its most recent foray breaking ground on Microsoft's turf. Today, the company announced another step forward with an update to its Mac desktop app called djay Pro 2 (macOS 10.11 or higher). This is still a high-functioning hybrid with both music and video mixing capabilities, but new features along with various tweaks to the look and feel are welcome changes. The standout feature here is Automix AI, which leverages machine learning as part of its improved functionality. It may seem like a slight against practiced human ability, but as long as you're not trying to Paris Hilton your way through gigs, it's actually quite useful. You can let this feature take the reigns both selecting and blending tracks at small gatherings or house parties, while still being able to jump in for some mixes and giving it a nudge in the right musical direction.
Engadget giveaway: Win a DiskStation DS418 courtesy of Synology!
After a quick setup and you could be running your own private cloud server with one of Synology's NAS drives like the DiskStation DS418. This device can handle a variety of tasks while providing more storage space at an ultimately more affordable price than third-party online services. You can schedule backups of your personal computer and mobile data, synchronize data across all your devices and access files from anywhere with either a mobile device or PC. If you're into 4K movies, the DS418 provides online transcoding via Video Station and DS video allowing high-res content to playback on devices that don't even support UHD. With Surveillance Station software installed, you can also record and monitor video from connected security cameras. This week, Synology has provided us with one of its DiskStation DS418 4-bay models so that one lucky reader can expand their world of storage, streaming and capture. Just head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this NAS from Synology. Winner: Congratulations to Brad S.
Engadget giveaway: Win an LG V30 smartphone!
With smartphones becoming the center of portable media capture, LG's V30 feature set positions it near the top of available options. Plus if you're an Android user and have been eyeballing all the tall OLED displays out there, now's your chance. On the back, you've got a dual camera setup with both 16-megapixel f/1.6 aperture and 13-megapixel wide-angle lenses set to capture the world. If video is your thing, the V30 has a powerful set of features, including point-zoom and color presets that provide a professional touch to your content. Audio quality on this handset is also notable with strong speakers and a built-in Hi-Fi DAC to pass natural sounding audio to your headphones. The V30 is also a sleek and comfortable handset to hold, so if you'd like a chance to take one for a spin, you're in luck. This week, LG has provided us with an unlocked 64GB V30 for one lucky reader. Just head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this LG V30 smartphone!
Biolite's SolarHome 620 provides power for everyday essentials
BioLite has been leading a dual existence. While the Brooklyn-based company's been delivering off-the-grid accessories to your average camper, hiker and explorer, it's also been serving emerging markets where power may be scarce and clean cooking tools are life-saving essentials. Now, for the first time, the company is releasing a product for both markets at once following on-the-ground research in India and Sub-Saharan Africa. The BioLite SolarHome 620 provides power for lights, device charging, radio and music by harnessing the sun's rays. For some regions, this may be a game changer, but it's not without its uses in developed areas, either as an energy-saving alternative or a backup plan in case of power failures. The $150 product is being released today in limited quantities for the holidays, with a proper rollout planned for Spring/Summer 2018.
Engadget giveaway: Win a V-Moda Remix speaker or Crossfade II wireless headphones!
V-Moda has long been known to provide great sound quality along with a unique and customizable designs. This year the company launched its updated Crossfade II wireless headphones, letting you roam free for up to 14 hours of listening (or unlimited when tethered). These also include the company's VAMP tech (a combo amplifier and DAC) for high-quality sound. If you like to personalize your gear, you can order 3D printable or laser engraveable Shield Kits to emblazon each ear piece, too. For the company's REMIX Bluetooth speaker, V-Moda includes the same VAMP technology along with a highly customizable exterior. It includes REMIXrings for a bit of flare, but also allows you to create 3D-printed panels to deck out the exterior. The REMIX can also be used as an amplifier for any quality headphones you plug in to it. This week, the company has provided one of each of these items as prizes for two lucky winners. Just head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning a pair of V-Moda Crossfade II wireless headphones or its customizable REMIX hi-fi Bluetooth speaker! Winners: Congratulations to John O. of Tucson, AZ and Eric W. of Versailles, KY!
Engadget giveaway: Win a set of goTenna Mesh off-the-grid communicators!
Communications have always been a sticky issue when traveling off the grid, either in remote rural or forested areas, exploring other countries or when networks fail. goTenna Mesh fills this gap with its Bluetooth-connectable radio antennas. Pair your mobile device with one and you can send private or broadcast messages and GPS coordinates to anyone in the 1-4 mile range with another goTenna Mesh -- no mobile connection required. If others in the area have a device, they help create an ad-hoc mesh network expanding the range of communication. The goTenna Mesh can also help you stay in touch with friends and family at crowded events where mobile networks are jammed up. They work with a variety of international radio spectrums, too, making it a great backup to roaming mobile options when abroad. This week, goTenna has provided us with two of its Family 4-packs for a couple of lucky readers. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning this off-the-grid communication solution. Winners: Congratulations to Ed N. of Milwaukee WI and Pavan A. of Atlanta, GA!
Engadget giveaway: Win a Fluance Fi50 Bluetooth speaker!
Speakers don't always need to fit in a backpack or provide a lot of chatter, but you do want them to offer big sound and quality audio output at a decent price. Fluance's $200 Fi50 Bluetooth speaker is a great example of those core basics. This speaker is powered by a 40-watt amplifier, with aptX support, dual tweeters and 5-inch woofers for a loud, warm sound. The Fi50 is enclosed in a hand-built MDF wood cabinet with convenient backlit touch controls on top. You can pair via Bluetooth or connect via a 3.5mm audio jack. Plus, there's a USB port to help keep mobile devices charged. Fluance has provided us with three of its Fi50 speakers for a trio of lucky readers this week. Just head down to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning. Winners: Congratulations to Anthony A. of Melville, NY; Liviu H. of Jamaica, NY and Philip C. of Victoria BC!
UE's Blast and Megablast join the Alexa smart speaker family
These days, the launch of yet more speakers with Alexa onboard isn't the most exciting announcement. However, these aren't stout smart home speakers or a mere software update, but an entirely new line for Ultimate Ears -- a long-standing favorite for its speakers' audio output and resilience. Today, the company introduces the Blast and Megablast, the network-capable and Alexa-enabled siblings of UE's Boom 2 and Megaboom. This new line was built explicitly for the Amazon Alexa ecosystem of apps and features, and along with the Power Up charging base, offers always-on functionality to cater to your verbal demands. Unlike many other options though, this one also includes an on-board battery for portability.