Unboxing and Setting up an MSI Cubi N Barebones Mini PC

I recently got my hands on the MSI Cubi N100 barebones Mini PC, and I decided to document the entire unboxing and setup process as a livestream. As someone who enjoys tinkering with new tech, I was eager to see how quickly I could get this little machine up and running with a Linux OS.

You can check out the stream here on my Amazon page. I purchased the kit from the new social shopping site Flip for an upcoming review I’ll be posting there.

The first thing I did was unbox the Mini PC, and I was impressed with its build quality versus some of the other low cost MiniPCs I’ve looked at recently.

The N100 version featured in the video doesn’t come with RAM, storage, or an operating system, so its $189 entry cost will quickly escalate when adding the necessary parts to get it all working. By comparison an N100 powered GMKTek G3 can be found for significantly less (compensated affiliate link) with RAM, storage and a Windows 11 Pro license. You can see my review of the GMKTec PC here.

After popping open the case, I installed the RAM and storage, and within minutes, I had everything assembled and ready to go. Booting up the system was a breeze, and I chose to install Ubuntu as the operating system. The installation process was quick, and before I knew it, the Mini PC was fully operational. From start to finish it was about 30 minutes to get everything installed and operating.

I ran a few tests to check hardware detection and performance, and the Cubi performed as expected and on par with other N100 based systems.

So what’s the value proposition here if competing units sell fully configured for less? Less risk. MSI is a multinational corporation that can provide domestic support throughout most of the markets they serve. The super cheap PCs generally come from China and lack long term support that might be necessary for businesses using these PCs in a production environment.

Another Amazon Gadget Haul!

I recently explored a new batch of tech gadgets from Amazon, and the results were mixed. While some items stood out as practical and innovative, others fell short of expectations.

You can watch the full video here and see all of the gadgets on Amazon here. (compensated affiliate link)

First on the list was the Minis Forum S100 Mini PC. It’s a compact device that can be powered directly through an Ethernet cable when connected to a POE (power over ethernet switch), which initially seemed like a convenient feature.

However, the performance significantly lagged when using Ethernet for power, with benchmark scores notably lower compared to when it was powered via USB-C. This performance disparity made it hard to recommend the device, especially since its primary selling point—Ethernet-based power—didn’t deliver as expected. It could still be useful for lightweight server tasks or digital signage, but its limitations were disappointing.

I did check with Minisforum and their response was “POE is only used as an auxiliary power supply, if you need a higher performance, it is recommended to use type c power supply.”

Next, I checked out the 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller, which now comes in an atomic purple case with upgraded hall effect sticks. These sticks offer better precision and durability compared to traditional ALPS based sticks. While the controller lacks some customization options available in higher-end models, its improved build quality and responsive controls make it a solid choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Another interesting gadget was the ProtoArc Hub Mouse. At first glance, it looks like a standard mouse, but it includes a built-in dongle that functions as a mini docking station, offering HDMI, USB, and power pass-through. It’s a versatile tool for those who need to connect multiple devices on the go. However, the HDMI output is limited to 4K at 30 frames per second, and the buttons on the mouse didn’t have a satisfying click, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

The Wavlink Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a more affordable option for expanding Thunderbolt ports on laptops. It performed well, delivering 90 watts of power and supporting multiple high-resolution displays. It’s a practical solution for those needing additional connectivity without breaking the bank, though the bulky power adapter was a slight downside.

The ProtoArc Foldable Keyboard was another product I was eager to try. It’s a full-sized, backlit keyboard that folds up for easy portability. Unfortunately, mine arrived with a defective D key, which made it challenging to use. Despite this flaw, the keyboard shows promise, offering convenience for those who work on the go.

Anker’s Fusion 10k charger stood out for its unique design. It features a wrist strap that doubles as a charging cable and supports dual charging with a 10,000mAh battery. It’s a clever, portable option for keeping devices charged, though it’s not the most powerful charger on the market.

For those needing more robust charging capabilities, Anker’s 100W 9-in-1 desktop charger provides multiple USB ports and regular outlets, offering more flexibility for charging several devices simultaneously.

Finally, I looked at the AGPtek MP3 player, which turned out to be a disappointment. The device boasts a sleek design reminiscent of an old iPod, with modern features like Bluetooth and video playback, and even supports lossless audio files. It even has an FM radio. However, the poor audio quality due to a subpar digital-to-analog converter severely undermined its potential. It’s a missed opportunity, as the player had the potential to be a solid alternative for those looking to move away from smartphones for media consumption.

All in this was another fun Amazon haul. It’s nice to see that there are still some obscure gadgets out there that I can share with all of you! Stay tuned for the next one!

FTC Cracks Down on Fake Reviews and Fake Social Media Followers

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has introduced a set of stringent rules aimed at curbing the spread of fake reviews and fake followers, set to take effect in October. In my latest video we dive into what the FTC claims they will now be enforcing.

These rules are intended to close the loopholes left by a recent Supreme Court decision, which limited the FTC’s ability to seek civil damages without specific regulations in place. With these new rules, the FTC aims to expand the scope of what is deemed illegal, allowing them to take civil action against violators.

One of the central elements of the new regulations is the prohibition of paid reviews. Businesses are now explicitly banned from creating or selling fake reviews or testimonials. This rule also covers the practice of paying for negative reviews, a tactic some companies have used against competitors. The FTC’s stance on this matter is clear: reviews should be authentic and based on real experiences, not monetary exchanges.

In light of these regulations, it’s worth examining the practices of some notable companies. For instance, Canon Corporation’s approach to influencer marketing raises questions about the authenticity of reviews. The company recently reached out to me, offering their V10 vlogging camera for review. However, the terms of their agreement were troubling. Canon required pre-approval of all content before publication, with the right to demand revisions. This pre-review requirement undermines the integrity of the review process, making it less about honest opinions and more about corporate approval.

Another example involves Google’s Team Pixel program, which has come under scrutiny for its recent shift in policies. Previously, the program involved sending phones to tech enthusiasts and reviewers without any obligations. However, with the release of the Pixel 9, creators were asked to agree not to feature competitor devices in their content or speak favorably about competing phones in comparison to the Pixel.

Google says that the goal of Teampixel was “is to get Pixel devices into the hands of content creators, not press and tech reviewers.” However this is just flat-out false. In my communications with the marketing company operating Teampixel they knew I was a product reviewer from day 1. Many of their communications referred to creators making reviews too.

The FTC’s new rules also target companies that set up biased review websites, where competing products receive unfavorable reviews, while the company’s own products are praised. This type of astroturfing is now explicitly banned. Moreover, businesses are no longer allowed to suppress negative reviews through intimidation or legal threats, a practice that has been reported in various industries. Additionally, if a company has a review section of their e-commerce site they cannot cherry pick positive reviews while excluding the negative ones.

I personally encountered review suppression when I tried to post a critical review on Channel Master’s website. As I noted in my review video, the player did not work as advertised with encrypted over the air content without an Internet connection. My review was never published but there are plenty of glowing ones visible on their product page. The new FTC regulations make it illegal for businesses to misrepresent the reviews on their websites, ensuring that all genuine feedback, whether positive or negative, is accounted for.

Lastly, the FTC’s crackdown extends to the purchase or sale of fake social media influence, including followers and views generated by bots or hijacked accounts. Paying for legitimate ads on social media platforms remains legal, but these platforms are now under greater pressure to ensure that the engagement they sell is genuine.

The big question now is what if any enforcement might we see from the FTC moving forward. I’ve had off the record conversations with FTC officials in the past and it was clear they lacked the resources to go after the many offenders out there. It is likely they will try to make an example out of a few big violators in the hopes that it encourages others to fall into compliance. Stay tuned!

Boox 7 Go Color E-ink Reader Review

I recently had the opportunity to test out the Boox 7 Go Color E-Ink Android E-Reader, a device that promises to bring the benefits of E-Ink technology to a color display. You can check it out in my latest review.

This e-reader is part of the Boox lineup, which includes other devices like the Boox Palma, a smaller, phone-sized e-reader. Both devices run Android and allow just about any Android app to run (although some work better than others on the -eink display). However, the Boox 7 Go Color distinguishes itself by offering a larger, seven-inch color E-Ink display.

At a price point of $249 (compensated affiliate link), this device is slightly more affordable than the Boox Palma. The display itself is what sets this e-reader apart—while it is in color, it operates using E-Ink technology, meaning the screen only updates when something changes on it. This design is ideal for reading and other activities that don’t require frequent screen updates which greatly extends batter life. However, the trade-off is a display that is less responsive, less vibrant and dimmer than the typical smartphone or tablet screen. Users will likely find themselves relying on the sidelight, which can be adjusted for color temperature to reduce blue light exposure at night.

The resolution of the display is 1680 by 1264 pixels, with a density of 300 DPI for black-and-white content and 150 DPI for color. The color is comparable to the color quality of a printed newspaper.

One drawback of the color E-Ink display is the noticeable ghosting that occurs when scrolling or interacting with the screen. This issue is less pronounced on black-and-white E-Ink displays but is quite evident here and the display will update more frequently as a result. However, the upside is exceptional battery life, which can be measured in days rather than hours, depending on usage. Reading consumes minimal power, but running Android apps, especially those requiring background processes, might drain the battery more quickly. The device also includes some clever power management features, such as shutting down completely after a few minutes of inactivity to preserve battery life and disabling apps from running in the background.

In terms of hardware, the device is lightweight, weighing just under seven ounces, and features a USB Type-C port for charging, a microSD card slot for additional storage, and front-facing buttons that can be reprogrammed for different functions. The device also supports Bluetooth, allowing users to connect headphones for audio playback, although the built-in speaker is adequate for audiobooks or podcasts.

Running on Android 12, the Boox 7 Go Color comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. However, security is a concern. The device does not require a password by default, even after a Google account is linked, and while a password can be set up, entering it on the somewhat laggy touch screen can be cumbersome.

The reading experience on the Boox 7 Go Color is solid for text-based content, although the backlight is necessary for comfortable reading due to the dim nature of the screen. The color display allows for viewing graphic novels or color PDFs, albeit with lower resolution and less vibrant colors compared to traditional screens. For games, only simple word or puzzle games like Wordle are suitable, as the display struggles with anything requiring animation or quick response times.

The device also offers good PDF support, with a simple method for transferring files via Wi-Fi using the built-in Boox Drop app, which spins up a web server that runs on device and is accessible on the local network. This feature is easy to use but again raises security concerns due to the lack of password protection. Despite these concerns, large PDF files load relatively quickly and are easily navigable, making the Boox 7 Go Color a competent device for those needing a color E-Ink reader for document viewing.

Overall, while the Boox 7 Go Color E-Ink reader has its flaws, particularly in terms of security and display brightness, it remains an interesting option for those looking for a compact, versatile e-reader that can handle a variety of content types. Its ability to run any Android reader app is a significant advantage over a Kindle, even if the color display isn’t perfect. For users who don’t require color, a black-and-white E-Ink display might be a better choice, offering sharper text and a brighter screen.

Disclosure : I paid for the Boox 7 Go with my own funds.

Check out The Lon Report!

Inspired by Dave Winer (the father of RSS) I have been “link blogging” for the last three years. My links get posted to links.lon.tv which is powered by the open source tool “Shaarli.”

I chose Shaarli because it’s a very low impact PHP app that can run on my shared webhost. It also provides an RSS feed of my links. From that RSS feed I then push out individual posts to X, BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Mastodon and a few others too. I use Zapier to automate the process and Buffer to space out my posts so I’m not too “noisy” when I dump a bunch of links into the linkblog.

But I’ve never been happy with the way Shaarli looks.. It’s just blah.. Shaarli does have a neat daily digest output but I wanted to have something that could consolidate multiple days of links on a single page. Enter the “Lon Report!”

Yes this looks a lot like the “Drudge Report” but as far as linkblogs go the Drudge style is the gold standard. Unlike Drudge’s site which is largely edited by hand, mine is totally dynamically generated from the Shaarli RSS feed.

It takes the first link and makes that the main headline, pulling the thumbnail image from the article. Once a new link gets posted the headline position will switch to the new link and the prior headline will become the first link on the left hand column. Each new link pushes everything down. The last link on the third column is the last link in the RSS feed.

I also have it pull thumbnails for the middle links on the left and right hand columns along with the first link in the center column.

When you visit the LonReport you’ll notice that the page loads incredible fast. That’s because it’s running off a single HTML file that gets rendered via a Python script. The images are not stored on my server but pulled from the source.

I initially tried to have it all run in PHP but it was pretty sluggish and I didn’t want to add the complexity of coding in a caching system. So instead I have a script that runs on my Synology NAS every 15 minutes and uploads the HTML file to my web host.

The craziest part? The Python code was whipped up in an afternoon via Google’s Gemini Advance. It actually worked on the first execution! Google’s AI is very good at coding and it was pretty amazing to see how quickly this thing came together. Even more amazing is that I gave it a screenshot of the Drudge report and asked it to build the site around that image.

I don’t plan to spend much time on this but I finally have a linkblog that I’m happy with (for now). I’ll probably tweak things every so often so stay tuned!

From My Basement to the White House! My Experience at the Creator Economy Conference.

I recently had the opportunity to attend the first-ever White House Creator Economy Conference. Held in the historic Indian Treaty Room of the Old Executive Office Building, the conference brought together a small and diverse group of content creators, industry leaders, policy makers and even President Joe Biden for a day of discussions on issues impacting the creator community.

You can see more in my latest video!

This was not a campaign event but rather a policy discussion. I paid for my own travel expenses and even my dry cleaning!

The day began with a discussion on mental health, focusing on how algorithms on social media platforms can drive negative content toward creators, significantly impacting their well-being. This session set the tone for the day, as many of the discussions that followed returned to the theme of algorithms and their influence on what content is seen and how it is consumed.

A particularly interesting panel explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and copyright law. The conversation delved into the complexities of AI-generated content and the challenges artists face when their work is used without compensation.

But one question raised by Dr. Arati Prabhakar, Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, was what exactly are these AI models being trained on? The actual work or just patterns? It was clear that this is an area where the law has not yet caught up with technology, leaving many creators vulnerable – and few can actually afford lawyers to fight it out in court.

Another notable moment came when President Biden made a surprise appearance. His remarks touched on the shifting landscape of media consumption, with his grandchildren relying on independent creators for information, a stark contrast to how previous generations, including his own, consumed news. He also addressed the dangers of people seeking out information that reinforces their existing beliefs, a problem exacerbated by the very algorithms that were a recurring theme throughout the day. He also spoke to the responsibility creators with large audiences have to present their views accurately and honestly.

Following his address, the President took a few questions, offering insight into his perspectives on social media and its influence. His responses reflected a deep interest in how younger generations are engaging with content, although it was clearn to me that he doesn’t spend much time on social media himself.

The breakout sessions that followed allowed smaller groups of attendees to discuss specific issues in more detail. These sessions were a highlight for me, as they provided a chance to engage directly with other creators and White House staff on topics that are often overlooked. However, one significant absence from the conference was representatives of the platforms themselves. Their presence could have added a valuable perspective, especially in discussions about algorithmic transparency and fair pay for creators.

As the day wound down, the conversation shifted to the future of platforms like TikTok, especially in light of recent legislation requiring the company to divest from its Chinese ownership or leave the U.S. market. The potential implications for creators who rely on these platforms for their livelihood were a major concern. Another topic of interest was the Federal Trade Commission’s guidelines on disclosing brand deals, with some creators expressing frustration over having to make disclosures. But from that discussion it was clear that some standardization about how disclosures are made could help both viewers and creators.

The conference was a rare opportunity for creators like myself to engage directly with policymakers. It was evident that this White House was interested in understanding the challenges faced by smaller creators and was open to hearing our concerns. The event was well-organized and left me feeling optimistic about the future of the creator economy.

Sadly the comment section in the video reflects a lot of the division currently in society. I respect the office of the President of the United States no matter who occupies it. When you’re asked to represent your industry at an important policy event at the White House you go.

Expanding my Footprint to Threads & Bluesky

I have a pretty extensive behind-the-scenes automation system set up for posting my YouTube videos and Linkblog to a number of popular social media platforms like X, Facebook and Mastodon. I am now adding Threads and Bluesky.

I’m adding these two new platforms because they are now supported on Buffer which is one of the ways I automate the process of distributing my links. I use Zapier to grab my RSS feeds and the magic happens from there.

GMKTec M6 Review – The mid-range of the low cost Mini PC market

The GMKTec M6 Mini PC offers a balanced mix of performance and value, making it a noteworthy option for those looking for a capable yet affordable mini PC. Priced at $299 for the base configuration with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, the M6 positions itself between the lower-end models that often struggle with performance and the higher-end ones that come with a hefty price tag.

You can find out more in my latest review.

The unit is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 6600H processor, featuring six cores and twelve threads. The RAM can be upgraded up to 64GB, and there’s an additional NVMe slot available for further storage expansion.

In terms of ports, the GMKTec M6 is reasonably equipped. The front of the unit houses a USB 4 port, although it doesn’t deliver the full 40Gbps speed typical of such ports. It also features two USB 3.0 ports and an audio jack. The rear of the unit includes two display outputs (HDMI and DisplayPort), two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port, and an additional USB 3 port. Running three 4K displays is possible by utilizing the two display outputs along with the USB-C

Power consumption is modest, with the device drawing 16-18 watts at idle and up to 84 watts under load, making it relatively energy-efficient for its performance class.

The M6 performs well in everyday tasks such as web browsing and media consumption. Basic video editing tasks are handled with ease. However, it’s in gaming that the M6 shows its low-cost limitations. While older games like GTA V run smoothly at 1080p with high frame rates, more demanding titles like Red Dead Redemption 2 struggle, achieving only 30-40 frames per second at low settings. Mini PCs running the current generation of Intel and AMD processors can often achieve playable, north of 30fps performance in modern games.

The fan noise, while more noticeable than in other models, remains tolerable and does not detract significantly from the overall experience.

The M6 also supports Linux well, with Ubuntu running smoothly and all hardware components being detected correctly. This makes it a viable option for those interested in dual-boot setups, allowing users to switch between Linux and the pre-installed Windows 11 Pro seamlessly.

Overall, the GMKTec M6 is a good choice for users who need more power than budget mini PCs offer but are not ready to invest in a high-end model. It’s a versatile machine that can handle a wide range of tasks, from general desktop computing to light gaming and server duties, without demanding a premium price.

Google Killed the Chromecast .. Four years ago!

Google has officially declared the Chromecast hardware as we once knew it to be dead, but in reality, the Chromecast hardware as we knew it was discontinued four years ago. I take a look back (and forward) at Google’s TV streaming devices in my latest video.

Chromecast was first introduced in 2013, and it was a game-changer at the time. For just $35, users could stream content from their phones to their televisions, an especially valuable feature in a time when most TVs were not smart and streaming boxes were expensive.

The Chromecast wasn’t just a device that mirrored content from a phone; it established a direct connection with streaming services, making the experience smoother and more reliable. The affordable price point and the functionality it offered made Chromecast a hit.

As the years passed, Google made several updates to Chromecast. In 2015, they redesigned the device, making it more user-friendly by turning it into a dongle, which was easier to connect to a television. They also introduced a Chromecast Audio device, which allowed users to stream audio to any speaker system. In 2016, the Chromecast Ultra was released, offering support for 4K streaming. Two years later Google released a third generation 1080p Chromecast.

Competing streamers, like Roku and Amazon’s Fire TV, fired back by releasing devices at or around the Chromecast price point. These offered a greater value proposition as they did not require a phone to use and had a full TV interface with remote controls.

In 2020, Google made a significant shift with the introduction of the Chromecast with Google TV. This device was more akin to an Android TV device than a traditional Chromecast. Like its low cost competitors, It came with a remote and an interface, eliminating the need to use a phone to control the device but still offered that as an option. While it still retained the Chromecast name, the core experience had changed, marking the end of Chromecast as it was originally known.

For Google, maintaining the infrastructure for these inexpensive devices became less viable, especially when other companies were willing to produce similar hardware. Devices like Walmart’s Onn boxes are examples of this shift, where Google incurs no overhead costs but still benefits from licensing fees. Additionally, many modern televisions now come with Google TV built-in, further reducing the need for a separate Chromecast device.

Despite the discontinuation of the original Chromecast hardware, the casting protocol itself is far from dead. Users can still cast content from their phones to various devices, including Google TV and other Android-based streaming boxes and smart TVs. This functionality remains a key part of the Android ecosystem, and it is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

Google’s latest streaming device, the more premium Google TV Streamer (affiliate link), will soon be their only streaming box offering. It will offer better performance than the 2020 4k Chromecast dongle along with more storage and RAM. But it will still be outclassed by the the Nvidia Shield, which remains the gold standard for Android TV devices since its 2015 release.

In essence, while the Chromecast name may have been added to the list of Google’s discontinued products, the technology and principles behind it are still very much alive. Google’s strategy seems to be shifting towards licensing and partnering with other manufacturers rather than producing the hardware themselves.

I got invited to the White House! Seriously!

I am excited to announce that I’ve been invited to attend a policy conference at the White House that will focus on the state of the “Creator Economy.” This upcoming event will bring together industry professionals, policy experts and content creators like myself to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the independent content landscape. It’s an exciting opportunity to be in the room where government and industry representatives will address issues that directly impact our work as creators.

The conference is set to take place at the Executive Office Building, next to the White House, and will cover a wide range of topics, including fair pay, artificial intelligence, mental health, and likely other issues that will come up throughout the day.

As part of the application process for the conference, I highlighted several concerns, including the potential risks of overregulation in emerging sectors like the Creator Economy. While regulation can address certain issues, there’s always the danger of unintended consequences that could stifle innovation and growth. This is particularly relevant in our field, where the landscape is still evolving.

But there are areas that need some attention. A significant issue I plan to bring up is the industry trend to not fairly compensate creators for the value they bring to these platforms. For example, YouTube has implemented a different model for its Shorts platform that pays fractions of pennies on the dollar vs. long term views. YouTube has also made it more difficult for creators to earn from other sources as they now restrict offsite linking on Short content.

Another key topic I intend to discuss is the growing influence of AI in content recommendation and its impact on creators and society at large. Algorithms increasingly dictate what content is shown to viewers (irrespective of who they are subscribed to), often steering them towards popular trends rather than diverse, high-quality content.

This has led to a decline in content quality and a narrowing of the types of content that reach audiences. It’s a self-perpetuating cycle where the algorithms reinforce trends, making it harder for creators to break through with original ideas. And in matters of public policy there’s a limited diversity of opinion presented to viewers.

I’m also concerned about the use of creator content that is being used to train AI models without adequate compensation. Value is being extracted from creators without a fair return, which is something both the industry and potentially government should address.

The conference will also likely touch on broader issues, such as the recent law requiring TikTok to divest its Chinese ownership.

As I prepare for this event, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to share these concerns and hear from others about their experiences. While there’s still much work to be done to improve the Creator Economy, it’s encouraging to see these conversations happening at such a high level. After the conference, I plan to provide a detailed account of the discussions and share my observations.

Stay tuned!

Vibe is a Free Cross Platform Transcription App

I recently stumbled across an intriguing tool called Vibe, an open-source, cross-platform transcription utility that offers a straightforward solution for converting audio and video files into text. This tool is available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, making it accessible to a broad range of users. You can see it in action in my latest review.

Vibe utilizes the open-source Whisper engine from OpenAI for its transcriptions. The setup process is quite simple, and the software runs directly on your device, which means that none of your data is sent to the cloud.

For my test, I used an interview I had conducted with Tom Persky from FloppyDisk.com, which was about 14 minutes long. I selected the file in Vibe and initiated the transcription process. The application worked through the file rapidly, producing a very accurate transcript.

Vibe offers several output formats, including plain text, HTML, PDF, and SRT files for closed captions. The SRT functionality is particularly useful for those looking to add captions to videos for Plex. However, I noticed that the captions were somewhat bunched together in the initial 30 seconds of the file. After some adjustments, specifically by altering the timestamp settings and sentence length options, I was able to produce a more viewer-friendly SRT file, with captions displayed more evenly across the video.

The tool also supports various transcription models, allowing users to switch between them depending on their needs. The default model worked well for me, but for those requiring different levels of detail or handling more complex audio, alternative models are easily accessible through the settings.

While Vibe is still a work in progress with limited features, it’s a promising start. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for anyone needing quick and reliable transcriptions. I particularly appreciate that it’s an open-source project, inviting community contributions that could enhance its functionality in the future.

Boox Palma Review – Phone-sized Android Tablet with an E-Ink Display

The Boox Palma is an intriguing device that merges the functionality of an Android tablet with the familiar experience of an e-ink display, commonly associated with e-readers like the Kindle. You can see it in action in my latest review.

At first glance, it might be mistaken for a smartphone due to its compact size and form factor, but its real purpose becomes apparent upon closer inspection of its unique display. It’s pricey at $279 (compensated affiliate link) so the audience here may be a bit limited.

The Palma has a 6.13-inch e-ink display with a resolution of 824 by 1648 and a 300 DPI dot pitch, mimicking the display quality of a typical laser printer or printed book. Like the Kindle, it includes a side light that evenly illuminates the screen with an adjustable color temperature. Despite the screen being smaller than the average Kindle, the size and weight—170 grams—make it an option for those who travel frequently and prefer a lightweight, portable reading device.

It also includes a 16-megapixel rear camera, which, while adequate for basic photography, is more suited for document scanning with the included app, which also offers optical character recognition. In fact Boox doesn’t even include a default camera app for photos so you’ll need to get one from the Google Play store. The absence of a front-facing camera and a headphone jack might be a drawback for some users, although Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity are available.

The Palma’s build quality, while predominantly plastic, doesn’t feel cheap. The back of the device features a textured finish that feels like pulpy paper.

One of the Palma’s standout features is its ability to run any Android app, including popular reading apps like Kindle and Nook. The device allows users to adjust the refresh mode settings, optimizing the display performance for different types of content. It should be noted that the high performance modes will degrade the battery life as it must update the screen more frequently.

The battery life is impressive, particularly when used for reading without the side light, offering up to 12-13 hours of usage when using more typical android apps and longer with reading apps that don’t tax its processor.

The Palma also supports basic web browsing, and although it can play videos on apps like YouTube, the experience is suboptimal due to the limitations of the e-ink display. Additionally, while the device is capable of handling emails and simple tasks, the latency in the touch response, particularly when typing, can be frustrating.

In terms of performance, the Palma is powered by an unspecified processor, accompanied by 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, expandable via an SD card slot. While it isn’t designed for gaming or intensive tasks, it handles its primary functions—reading and light app usage—adequately.

One notable limitation is the lack of support for a dedicated stylus, which might have enhanced its appeal for note-taking or drawing.

The device runs on Android 11, and while it’s not the latest version, the company has committed to providing updates for at least three years. However, the latest update provided security patches only up to January of 2024.

The Boox Palma stands out as a versatile e-reader that offers much more flexibility than traditional devices in its category. Its Android foundation allows users to access a wide range of reading apps and customize their experience, making it an appealing option for avid readers who seek more control over their digital library. While it may not replace a smartphone or a more robust tablet, its niche appeal lies in its ability to bridge the gap between a dedicated e-reader and an Android tablet.

Lenovo Yoga 7 16″ Review (16AHP9)

I recently spent some time with Lenovo’s 16-inch Yoga 7 laptop, a machine that sits in an intriguing spot in the market, especially considering its current sale price of $549 at Best Buy (affiliate link). As the back-to-school season approaches, this model might catch the eye of students and budget-conscious consumers alike. You can see more in my latest review.

The Lenovo Yoga 7 is part of the Yoga line, known for its flexible design. This 16-inch laptop can be used as a traditional laptop or folded back into tablet mode, making use of its touch display. Although the pen is optional and wasn’t included with my review unit, the ability to draw and interact directly with the screen adds another layer of functionality.

The 16-inch display is a touch screen that offers a decent experience, though it’s not tailored for professional use. With a resolution of 1920×1200 and a 16:10 aspect ratio, it provides a bit more vertical space compared to standard 16:9 screens, which is useful for productivity tasks. However, its 300 nits brightness and limited color accuracy may leave photographers and video editors wanting more.

Under the hood, the Yoga 7 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 8640HS processor, paired with 8GB of RAM. While the processor is capable, the limited RAM is a bottleneck for more demanding tasks, especially since it’s not upgradeable. The laptop handles basic tasks like web browsing and video streaming without issue, but newer AAA games and more intensive applications like video editing might struggle due to the RAM constraint. The built-in 512GB NVMe storage is upgradeable, providing some flexibility for those needing more space.

Weighing in at 4.39 pounds, the Yoga 7 is not the lightest option out there, but its solid build quality justifies the weight. The all-metal chassis and thick glass display contribute to its sturdy feel, making it a device that can withstand regular use. The keyboard is comfortable to type on, with well-spaced keys and a backlight, though the number pad’s smaller keys may take some getting used to. The touchpad performs well, with a reliable physical click throughout most of its surface, and the fingerprint reader adds a convenient way to log in quickly.

The laptop also comes with a decent selection of ports, including two USB-C ports that support power delivery and video output, a full-sized HDMI port, and a microSD card slot. However, the placement of the power button on the side can be a nuisance, as it’s easy to hit accidentally when handling the laptop. The 1080p webcam performs adequately for video calls, and the built-in shutter provides a simple way to ensure privacy.

In terms of performance, the Yoga 7 handles basic tasks with ease. Web browsing, video streaming, and light multitasking are smooth and responsive. Basic 4k video editing in DaVinci Resolve was a little better than expected, but more demanding projects will be hindered by the limited RAM. While older games like GTA V ran well, more recent titles struggled, particularly those that require more memory. Benchmark tests also revealed a bit of thermal throttling under heavy sustained load that might impact performance when running games or other demanding tasks.

Despite these drawbacks, the Yoga 7 does have some redeeming qualities. Its battery life is impressive, thanks to the large 71Wh battery, providing around 10 hours of use under light workloads. Additionally, the laptop runs relatively quietly, even under load, which could be a selling point for those who prioritize a quiet working environment.

The Yoga 7 also supports Linux, and my experience running Ubuntu was smooth, with all hardware components being detected and functioning properly.

Overall, the Lenovo Yoga 7 is a solid option for those needing a reliable laptop for everyday tasks. Its build quality and design are standout features, and while its performance is hampered by limited RAM, it remains a decent value, especially at its current sale price.

ATSC 3 Update: Broadcasters say we are the “Super, super, super sub minority”

I’ve been receiving numerous inquiries about new developments with the NextGenTV ATSC 3.0 over the air television standard. Unfortunately, there isn’t much news to report beyond some markets experimenting with streaming Internet-based channels that initiate their connections based on a URL passed over the air. You can see which markets support this new feature over at Rabbitears.info.

The other bit of news is that the industry refuses to budge on their desire to encrypt the public airwaves and make it more difficult for consumers to watch television in their own homes. In a recent interview, an industry spokesperson said those opposed to encryption are a “super, super, super sub minority” of the overall population. I disagree, and my latest video looks at why more people care than the industry’s tunnel vision suggests.

The interview was conducted by Dylan Ross of WNY Over The Air with David Arland of Arland Communications, who represents several industry players in the ATSC 3.0 rollout including the A3SA, the group responsible for the encryption.

Arland touched on gateway devices like the HDHomerun that bring a TV signal into one device and distribute over a local network to other devices. Arland said in the interview that gateway devices that support ATSC 3 encryption are coming, a claim that has been made since stations started locking their signals down a year ago. To date none of the certified ATSC 3 tuners allow gateway functions.

While the industry maintains this use case is minimal, a quick search of Amazon for “tv tuners” reveals that four of the top five best selling tuner products are in fact gateway devices: a few different SKUs of the 4th generation Tablo and the HDHomerun Flex 4k.

Arland also said claims that I and others have made that encryption is a tactic to steer consumers to subscription services is “bogus.” But if encryption is allowed by the FCC, that will be the only way for consumers to consume local tv stations in more than one room off of a single connection.

Despite the industry’s stance, consumer demand for flexible viewing options persists. Companies providing gateway hardware and software solutions for ATSC 1.0 continue to thrive, suggesting a substantial market interest. The future of DRM encryption will likely be decided by the FCC or Congress, influenced by the upcoming election and subsequent appointments to the FCC.

If you care about this issue, I encourage you to file a comment with the FCC. There are already over thousands of filings from other concerned viewers. The ongoing debate over DRM encryption is crucial, and your voice can make a difference.

The New Crossbows & Catapults Disappoints..

As a child of the ’80s, one of my favorite board games was “Crossbows and Catapults.” It was a fun battle game where players built a castle with lego-like blocks and then fired plastic pucks back and forth to knock down the opponent’s castle. The game included rubber-band powered crossbows and catapults to fire off the pucks.

For some reason the game popped in my head the other day and upon searching I happened on the rebooted version that was just released this week at retail! You can see it in action in my latest video.

The new version of “Crossbows and Catapults,” priced at $34.99 (affiliate link), comes with a variety of pieces designed to capture the essence of the original game but in far fewer quantities than the original. Part of the appeal of the original game was having enough wall bricks to come up with some unique and creative build strategies. In this new version players are mostly restricted to a singular castle design.

The new spring-loaded catapult feels close in power to the rubber-band powered original with the added bonus of an angle adjustment that was lacking before. But the new crossbow is a serious miss. It fires by squeezing it together (like a pair of tweezers) to force the puck out. The pucks don’t have much velocity out of the crossbow and I found it was hard for my 8 year old to operate.

They likely moved away from rubber bands due to how easy it was to “hack” the original weapons to be significantly more powerful (and dangerous) by adding more bands. That of course made the game even more fun !

Gameplay itself is straightforward and reminiscent of the original. Players take turns launching pucks at each other’s castles, aiming to knock down their opponent’s structures and soldiers. I did find this new version sturdier than the original (perhaps due to the reduced velocity of the weapons) so each game took much longer to play.

Overall, the new iteration of “Crossbows and Catapults” is a mixed bag. It makes an attempt at bringing back a beloved classic, but falls short due to the lack of creative build options and significantly weakened crossbow weapon. The game would have benefited from being reissued vs. reimagined.

Moving Plex Docker Containers is Easy! Here’s how. (sponsored post)

Last year, I demonstrated how straightforward it is to set up a Plex server on a Synology NAS using Docker. In my latest monthly sponsored Plex video, we explore moving that container off the Synology NAS and onto a Mini PC running Ubuntu Linux.

First, I had to install Docker on the Mini PC, which is running Ubuntu. Installing the Docker Engine was straightforward—just copying and pasting commands into the terminal, as detailed on Docker’s official website. With Docker set up, I moved the Plex container’s files from the Synology NAS, where it had been operating with a small library that included a movie and some TV episodes.

Before transferring, I changed some metadata on the NAS, such as updating a thumbnail for a TV show episode, as a test to ensure that all data will transfer correctly. I stopped the Plex container on the NAS, copied all necessary files—including the Docker compose file, the media files and the folders containing Plex Metadata over to the Mini PC. I then adjusted the Docker compose file to reflect the new file locations on the Mini PC.

With the files in place, I issued a command to spin up the container. Everything started up without a hitch, and all metadata and media were intact and accessible. The flexibility of Docker makes such transitions smooth and reliable. As far as my Plex clients were concerned nothing changed at all!

Next, I wanted to add an external hard drive to the Plex server. I stopped the Plex container, identified the drive’s location on the system, and edited the Docker compose file to include the new media directory from the external drive. After restarting the container, the new media was seamlessly integrated into Plex.

Upgrading the Plex server within Docker is also straightforward. A simple pull command is all that is needed to upgrade to the latest version of the Plex Media Server.

Docker’s portability and ease of use (once you understand how it works of course) make it an excellent choice for self-hosting applications like Plex. Whether starting on a NAS or a Mini PC, Docker allows for straightforward setup, backup, and migration.

You can see some other self hosted projects I’ve played with recently here.

Disclosure: This was a paid sponsorship from Plex however they did not review or approve this content before it was uploaded.