NEWS FLASH!

New disc can hold up to a petabyte of information which is more than 220,000 times the capacity of a DVD. https://www.newsweek.com/dvd-storage-millions-movies-tech-1872746

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW 2024 ~ Highlights Of Some Unusual Showings …. BOB SKIDMORE (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) CORRESPONDENT © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED At the beginning of each year manufacturers, distributors, retailers and the media get together in Las Vegas for the annual Consumer Electronics Show, World’s largest exhibition of new technology that may show up at your local stores. CES, as it’s better known, is an opportunity for inventors to test prototype ideas and for manufacturers to show “soon to be available” new gadgets and products to resellers and the media. 2024 certainly had its share of innovative products. Some 130,000+ attendees and 4000+ exhibits enjoyed this most unusual and fun filled event. I’ll list just a very few of the most unusual and perhaps practical items in this column.

The GYROGLOVE, A/K/A GyroGear, works to help those with hand tremors. This wearable glove is intended to help stabilize the hands of those with tremors. GyroGear, a medical technology startup, debuted this hand-stabilizing glove in hopes that it will assist people to regain control of their lives. In a demonstration an individual with a right hand that shook slipped on the black glove, then their right hand relaxed, and they were able to hold a pen and write their name. It’s too early to know if insurance, or Medicare will cover any, or all of the $5,899.00 cost, but certainly this could give back a piece of a person’s prebious life when they have the glove on…. LG displayed their LG OLED T, a wireless, 77” transparent TV. The front panel is transparent, with an opaque contrast screen behind it. By raising or lowering the contrast screen, you can make the screen look more or less transparent. LG showed off visuals that made it look like a 3D fish tank with the transparent screen, and then raised the opaque panels to show off how the TV functions more normally. Price TBA soon.

GE introduced their PROFILE SMOKER, a countertop smoker that uses wood pellets, just like an outdoor smoker, but turns the wood smoke into warm air. It has 6 preset food settings (brisket, pork ribs, pork butt, wings, chicken and salmon) and can connect to the GE Profile Connect App for more features. GE claims it can fit 3 racks of ribs cut in half, a full chicken, or a 14 pound pork butt. $999.

The WITHINGS BEAMO is a thermometer, stethoscope, pulse oximeter & EKG in one device. This device with the Withings Health Mate app when connected to Wi-Fi and is USB-C rechargeable. Available late June after FDA approval. $249.95.

Clicks keyboard case for iPhone comes with a built-in physical QWERTY KEYBOARD CASE that you can use with your iPhone. The best part is that the virtual keyboard won’t appear unless you force it to, so you get back that screen real estate as you type. It does add some height to the phone. It has backlit keys & supports Mac & iPad keyboard shortcuts. Only available for the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. $139 with shipping starting in February. Graphic credits: CES & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

MAGIC TAP DRINK DISPENSER ~ No Spill Liquid Container Dispenser

THE MAGIC LIQUID DISPENSER TAP No-Spill Drink Container Dispenser …. BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Pouring liquids from a container can sometimes be messy, especially where children, or seniors are involved. The MAGIC TAP DISPENSER may just be an easy to use and inexpensive solution. Just press your cup, or bowl against the blue trigger, and enjoy! The MAGIC TAP DISPENSER is a battery powered pump that quickly attaches to most liquid containers. It’s powered by two AA easily replaceable batteries contained in the head of the tap. (I’ve had batteries to last over a year with daily use) The tap’s head easily snaps on to most container’s openings since it requires no threads and is made of a very flexible plastic. A 10.5-inch flexible plastic tube/pump slips into the container. Its flexibility permits the tube to curve and easily adjust for the depth of most containers. At the end of the hose is a pump that gains its power via a liquid-proof cable that’s contained in the tube and is attached to the Tap’s batteries and circuitry located in the head. Attaching to your container is easy too. Simply place the tube portion into the opening of your beverage container. If the beverage container is too full, insert the tip of the tube/pump slightly into the container and tap a glass against the blue trigger to dispense some liquid thus making room for full insertion of the tube/pump. Now gently pull the tabs on the top portion of the dispenser over and around the container’s opening to complete a secure fit. When moving, or to re-position the container do not grab the Tap’s top since it’s a slip-on, not threaded attachment, but rather grab the container itself. Once installed and operational just be sure to release the lock located to the left of the blue trigger by sliding to the left, then press the glass against the trigger and continue so till you’ve filled the glass to the desired amount. TIP: Have a secure grip during the container being filled as it will become much heavier during the filling process. To avoid accidental pouring be sure to re-lock the tap by now sliding the lock to the right so it’s behind the blue trigger when you’ve completed filling all your containers. A red dot left of the lock should now be visible indicating it’s safely locked.

To clean the MAGIC TAP DISPENSER, mix a half-gallon of warm water with one tablespoon of powered dishwasher detergent. Dispense the cleaning solution through the tap as though it were a drink. Repeat as needed, and then dispense at least a half-gallon of warm water through the MAGIC TAP. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth paying particular attention to the connector. The TAP is not dishwasher friendly. The MAGIC TAP DISPENSER works very well with most liquids while preventing spillage and can remain in the fridge when dispensing liquids. It is not recommended for dispensing carbonated beverages, beverages containing pulp, or Sarsaparilla emulating flavors such as root beer. Beverages with 40%, or more alcohol, or beverages beyond their stated expiration date should be avoided. It is ideal for milk, juice, water, sports drinks, iced tea, and hot drinks. GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ MSRP: $21.00 Available from many on-line resellers For more information go to: https://amzn.to/42mDbeu Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Shellbox Apple Watch Shockproof case with watch band

EZANMULL SHELLBOX SHOCK PROOF CASE FOR APPLE WATCH ~ Damage Protection For Apple Watches …. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) How do you protect your expensive Apple Watch from shocks, dirt, water and snow? This is always a concern for most watch wearers. Daily use will inevitably result in an accidental bump, scrape, drop or even worse a bodily fall that can result in expensive damage to the case, or inner workings of the Apple Watch. The SHELLBOX from EZANMULL and distributed exclusively by Amazon may just be the perfect solution. The design exceeds MIL-STD 810G military standards for shocks and drops up to 6.6’ (2 meters) for up to a thousand times. Its waterproof design easily lends itself for protection while swimming, hiking, climbing, skiing, fishing, camping and much more outdoor activity. A 2019 newly designed, IP68 certified, waterproof case for Apple Watch allows the submersion to over 6.6’/2m deep for one-hour. Naturally, the soft watch band and connected case are washable.

Furthermore, an additional single long-length band is included should the wearer have exceptionally wide wrists. This band could also serve as a potential replacement should the band with the slots ever need replacement. A tool to easily remove and replace the band is also included. Unfortunately, additional watch band replacements are not available from the manufacturer, or from other vendors, but then the cost of an entire replacement is very affordable. My long term tests did reveal that the soft watch bands supplied are not too durable over several months of normal use that’ not even submersed in water. They tend to slowly break apart. The break starts with a slight visible tear, a warning to stop wearing the watch with this band. The additional band supplied can be a possible replacement, beyond that there are no replacement bands available. The SHELLBOX is a possible tool to keep your Apple Watch investment safe and well protected. All functions such as Bluetooth, fall notification, heart rate monitor, speaker and microphone are easily accessible as is the seamless control access of all buttons, sensors, including the signature rotating crown dial and tactical side button. A limited “peace of mind” accessory, at a very affordable price!!! MSRP: $25.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/41eLVCl Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at: bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

SHOCKFLO TIRE INFLATOR

ShockFlo Tire Inflator ~ A Portable Air Compressor for Cars, Bikes and Inflatables…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Inevitably all of us has a need to top off the air pressure in our automobile and bike tires, or other inflatables. Sounds easy, but quite often can become a chore, or the need arises when you’re no where near an air compressor as in a breakdown. My condo association even provides access to a free stationary air compressor which was certainly convenient for cars, but nothing else. Recently they changed out the hose/nozzle connector with something that is very flimsy and useless. This caused me to research for inexpensive, reliable alternatives. The ShockFlo Tire Inflator is a portable air compressor, 12 volt DC air pump for vehicle tires up to 150psi. It features a digital pressure gauge, emergency light, LED touch screen and 5 preset modes for car, bikes and inflatable balls. It easily plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter with its’ ten foot cord. Useful accessory purchase might be the Sparking 10’ fused DC extension cord, bit.ly/3CzInQb, and the Greenco folding step stool that minimizes getting on your knees to access the tire’s nozzle, bit.ly/3NizJe9. This extension cord should make it possible to use the ShockFlo on larger vehicles and non-auto related items outside the vehicle’s perimeter. Also useful might be a universal AC to DC car cigarette lighter socket adapter (inverter) such as the iSaddle SZ-003 https://amzn.to/3twIFGv. ($6.99) This allows you to plug into 115V AC to power the unit in place of the car’s cigarette lighter.

A great feature I really like is the capability of presetting the PSI you wish to inflate. No need to constantly monitor the amount of air being added. The ShockFlo is such a powerful device in a small package that it manages to inflate a tire (195/60/R16) from 0 to 35 PSI in just 4.5 minutes, and from 25 to 35 PSI in only 1 minute. It features an easy to read LED panel that displays real-time tire pressure with an automatically stop inflating. The emergency light has a built-in LED light with 3 modes; emergency, warning, and SOS strobe. The ShockFlo comes with the air nozzle as well as a ball needle and even includes a storage bag and spare fuse. The ShockFlo Tire Inflator is without a doubt a must have device for SUV’s, motorcycles, bikes, balls, swimming rings and much, much more. MSRP: $49.99 (inflator) $10.69 (DC 10’ extension) $13.79 (folding step. Stool) $6.99 (AC ~ DC power inverter) GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: bit.ly/3CG4rso Here’s a quick step-by-step user guide for car tire inflation to cut out and keep in your wallet:

SIMPLE AND ELEGANT ~ A Smart Watch That Tracks Numerous Vitals, Or Does It???

SIMPLE AND ELEGANT ~ A Smart Watch That Tracks Numerous Vitals, Or Does It? © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Have you been awaiting a smart watch that can do more than the current series of Apple watches? Well SIMPLE AND ELEGANT and other offshore manufacturers think they have the answer. We recently obtained the SIMPLE AND ELEGANT model and put it to the test. This watch claims such features as: accurate blood sugar readings; heart rate monitoring; blood pressure; calorie counting; sleep monitoring; pedometer; distance – just to mention a few of the claimed benefits. Probably the most desirable and most asked for feature would be the ability to accurately measure Glucose, “blood sugar” reading stats at a moment’s notice. The popularity of having such a benefit would be the elimination of having to prick your finger to obtain a blood sample, not to mention eliminating the on-going high cost of supplies required to perform this test. Unfortunately, this watch uses a measurement standard known as MMOI/L. The American market does not use this measurement standard, but rather uses the MG/DI standard. This makes it difficult using this watch for users in the USA to obtain an understandable reading. Yes, one can obtain a conversion chart to aid in interpreting the reading by conversion, but this is certainly not convenient for most users since the concept is to supply measurements on the go to cope with ones busy lifestyles. Furthermore, we noted that the readings were quite often not accurate when compared to the finger prick method. These issues were presented to the manufacturer via one of the suppliers and the reply was that this is what we offer with no changes in the offing. Certainly the USA market would be their largest and should therefore warrant addressing the measurement standard issue not to mention the inconsistent accuracy that is a vital concern for diabetic users. How difficult would it be to make a model for the American market? Other vital sign features lacked consistent accuracy as well, thus making this a questionable product at best. Available in men’s and women’s styles that work with Android & iPhones via Alexa and Bluetooth for answering and making calls. Perhaps this is why Apple still has an Apple version under development? Other features include: smart notification; 24/7 all-around health tracking; 60+ sports modes; IP68 waterproof; O2 % measurement; magnetic charging with their supplied magnetic cable, just to mention a few. An Apple Watch Clone? Is it, or isn’t it? Perhaps it’s best to wait for Apple after all??? Available from: Amazon, Cosmor Tumblr PTE, LTD and other suppliers. MSRP: Amazon $99.00 List – Discounts vary as low as $59.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★ For more information go to: https://bit.ly/3rhvfNL Graphic credits: Google Images; Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com , or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

SCAMS, HACKING & MORE ~ What To Look Out For & How To Protect yourself… © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) I’ve written about email scams and hacking in previous columns, but it’s becoming more prevalent, so here’s a bit of an update. Above, you’ll see an email that I received recently. As shown, it looks pretty official and even includes an iCloud logo. I happened to be in Beverly Hills next to an Apple store in the Beverly Centre Mall when I received it. I knew it was bogus after having *checked the available memory on my iPhone, but just to be certain I checked with Apple. Sure enough, I was told that this has become a regular scheme with scammers and to disregard and trash it at once! Since receiving this one I’ve received several others similar in content, but minus the iCloud image logo. If you complied with their instructions you would soon be hacked and could have serious complications with using your iphone and other devices thus requiring re-establishing your account with Apple and maybe even infecting your various other accounts, files and contact information, not to mention giving them access to this info. To *check your available memory on an iPhone simply: Click on SETTINGS> GENERAL> iPHONE STORAGE. This will display how much memory you have used and how much iCloud memory you still have remaining. Android owners, let this be a warning too as you can be just as easily hacked and vulnerable! Other scams to watch for: Shipment being held by USPS, UPS & FedEx, wanting you to contact them immediately to provide info possibly including credit card information; Purchases with a stated dollar amount having been successfully made and asking you to respond to a number, or email link if this is not your purchase. This includes phony merchants claiming to have charged purchases to your PayPal account; Bit coin purchases with a stated dollar amount asking for you to contact them to dispute the transaction if incorrect; The discontinuance of your Amazon Prime Account due to numerous attempts to charge your credit card for PRIME benefits and failing; McAfee subscription late renewal; FaceBook “MESSENGER” ~ Be on the lookout for messenges supposedly sent by friends asking how you are followed by directing you to a link where you can get some sort of financial benefit they claim they received. Simply replying to the message is enough to allow access to your device, and clicking on the link opens the possibilities even further. When hacked on FaceBook, or Messenger you will need to change your password immediately. If you’re unsure how to accomplish this on a specific device, Google for instructions listing specifics such as device type. (You’ll now need to update the new password on other devices that feature FaceBook) When in doubt with requests from merchants, etc., always contact the merchant directly and only use a phone number, or email link that you know is valid & legitimately published. Never use phone numbers, or links included in the suspected email that you received! This is what they want you to do and may result in becoming a hack victim costing you time, money and the sharing of your device’s information. Lastly, delete all such emails immediately! You can remove the displayed MESSENGER APP from your iPhone screen, however it’s not possible to remove the MESSENGER APP itself from it or your other devices. Your iPhone will still show that you have messages in the top upper right corner of the FaceBook screen. If you click on this indicator it will open up MESSENGER, something you do not want to do. Good luck, and always STAY CYBER SAFE! Graphic credits: Amazon & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: http://twitter.com/bskidmore