In this month’s sponsored Plex video, the spotlight is on a new feature that allows users to write reviews for TV shows and movies and have them viewable by friends on the Plex platform. The reviews show up ahead of the critic reviews that Plex sources from Rotten Tomatoes.
For TV shows you can rate and review entire series, individual seasons, or specific episodes. Currently reviewers have the option to make the reviews visible only to yourself, only to friends, or expand things a bit by allowing friends of friends to see them. For more information on how social features work on Plex, check out my Discover Together video from a little while back.
Plex also allows for spoiler-tagged reviews. When marked, the spoilers are blurred out, protecting other viewers who haven’t seen the content yet. It’s a useful addition for those who want to discuss plot twists or endings without ruining the experience for others.
The new feature should now be enabled across most of the platforms Plex supports. This includes Android mobile and TV, Apple TV and iOS, Roku and Fire TV. If you’re not seeing it enabled be sure to make sure your app version is up to date. More information can be found on this Plex support page.
For those budding reviewers who want a wider audience, Plex is beta-testing a feature that allows select users’ reviews to be seen by the entire Plex community. If you’re interested in contributing as a critic, Plex has an application form up where you can submit your information.
Disclosure: This video was sponsored by Plex, however they did not review or approve it before it was uploaded.
My latest Chromebook review is of the new Lenovo Duet 11, the latest iteration of Lenovo’s detachable tablet. Very shortly a package including the tablet, keyboard and pen will sell for $349 at Best Buy. Check this compensated affiliate link to see if it has dropped.
The device itself is lightweight, clocking in at about 2.41 pounds with everything attached and 1.2 pounds as a standalone tablet. The screen is a 10.95-inch display with a 2K resolution, offering a sharp image for a device at this price point. It’s also powered by a MediaTek Kompanio 838 processor and comes with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage in my review loaner configuration. However, one downside is the lack of an SD card slot, so any storage expansion would need to happen through USB drives.
One thing that stands out is its versatility. The kickstand works in both portrait and landscape orientations, and the pen attaches magnetically to the back of the device. The keyboard, while small, is decent in terms of tactile response, although it does lack backlighting, which could be an issue in low-light settings. Similarly, the device has no biometric login options, so you’ll be typing in a PIN each time you want to unlock it.
Battery life is around 10 hours, which should be enough for most casual use cases, and the performance holds up for general tasks like web browsing and video playback. In terms of connectivity, the Duet 11 includes two full-service USB-C ports, which is a nice feature for a device in this price range. These ports support video, power, and data, but unfortunately, it can only output to one external monitor at a time.
For casual gaming, I tested out Roblox and Minecraft, and both performed surprisingly well, even with a Bluetooth controller connected. The Wi-Fi 6 support ensures stable cloud gaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming, and I didn’t notice any significant issues while streaming games.
On the creative side, the pen input works smoothly, with minimal latency, making it a solid option for note-taking. However, the screen’s slick surface might not provide the best drawing experience for artists. Still, Chrome OS’s built-in handwriting recognition is a nice touch.
The device also runs Android apps through the Google Play Store, allowing users to load up mobile apps alongside Chrome OS applications. This flexibility is a major selling point for anyone looking for a multipurpose device. For productivity, the Chromebook also supports Linux applications, making it capable of running software like LibreOffice for offline use. This versatility is enhanced by the Chrome OS support window, which extends to 2034, giving buyers a full decade of software updates.
Overall, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 is an affordable, flexible device that offers a lot of functionality for the price. It’s not going to compete with higher-end machines, but for casual users, students, or those who want a lightweight, multipurpose device, it’s worth considering
My TV streaming setup is always in a state of continued evolution, but I thought I’d share with you what I’m using now day-to-day. I’m currently using two devices—the Nvidia Shield TV, which I’ve relied on for nearly a decade, and the Apple TV 4K. They both serve different purposes in my home, and I’ve found them indispensable for various reasons. You can see more in my latest video.
Many people ask why one would need a separate streaming box if their smart TV already has built-in apps. In my case, I have an LG OLED C7 from 2017, which, while offering incredible picture quality, has become unreliable for streaming from its built-in apps. Over time, the apps either crash or are no longer supported, making it necessary to add external hardware. That’s where the Nvidia Shield and Apple TV come into play.
For the hardcore media enthusiast in me, the Nvidia Shield TV remains essential. I run a Plex Media Server with high-end media ripped from Blu-ray discs, and the Nvidia Shield is the best device for preserving that same high-quality playback experience. It supports Dolby Vision HDR and lossless audio modes that are crucial for home theater setups, and despite being old hardware, it’s still the only reliable option for this purpose.
But I use the Apple TV 4K for everything else. I opted for the 128GB version with an Ethernet port because I prefer a wired connection for reliability over Wi-Fi. An additional feature of this model is its ability to act as a hub with devices that support Matter standard for home automation.
What really sets Apple TV apart for me is the user interface. Unlike other platforms that bombard you with ads and trailers, Apple has a welcome uncluttered interface. When it loads up you get your apps and that’s it.
I positioned the Apple Photos app in the first app position, and my home screen welcomes me with an automatically rotating selection of family photos from my iCloud Photo library when I turn it on.
The Apple TV 4K’s integration with the broader Apple ecosystem is one of the key reasons it stands out as my daily driver. If you’re already using Apple products, the experience becomes seamless and incredibly intuitive. For instance, when I put in my AirPods, the Apple TV immediately recognizes them and prompts me to connect for private listening.
The integration also extends to my iPhone and iPad. I can use my phone as a remote, which is particularly useful when entering passwords or searching for content. Instead of laboriously typing using the on-screen keyboard and remote, a notification pops up on my phone, allowing me to type quickly and efficiently. This extends to password management as well – when prompted for a password Bitwarden comes up as an option on the phone just like it does in other apps. I can autofill them when required, saving me the trouble of manually entering long, complicated passwords.
Apple TV is about the only streaming box on the market that properly handles 24p content, which is crucial for anyone who wants their movies and shows to play back as the creators intended. Most films and many TV shows are shot at 24 frames per second, and enabling the “match frame rate” setting on the Apple TV ensures that your television switches to this 24p mode whenever you’re watching such content. Apple TV handles this frame rate switching across nearly all apps, making it one of the most reliable streaming devices for those looking to preserve the original look and feel of their media. Compared to other devices, like the Nvidia Shield, which only supports 24p in select apps, Apple TV’s near-universal support is a major advantage for enthusiasts.
While the Apple TV excels in many areas, gaming isn’t one of them. Despite having the hardware capability with its A15 chip, there isn’t a robust selection of console-like games, although limited emulation support for retro games have started to appear. Apple TV’s restrictions on file management also make it less ideal for storing and running these emulators long-term.
All in all, the Apple TV has become my go-to for streaming, particularly because of its reliable 24p support, clean interface, and seamless integration with my Apple devices. While it may not replace the Nvidia Shield for Plex enthusiasts, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and user-friendly streaming box for everything else.
Listen to this article as a podcast (AI generated):
One of the most significant advancements of the 21st century is how easy it has become for us to communicate with each other. With widespread wireless 5G broadband Internet and smartphones, even remote areas have access to video calls and more.
But this communication infrastructure can quickly break down during natural disasters or power outages that go beyond a few hours. In such cases, it becomes challenging to inform loved ones or seek help when necessary. My local area has an inept local electric utility that has been unable to keep the power on even after minor storms.
In my latest video, we take a look at some ways you can communicate with the outside world when all else fails.
One of the most notable developments is in satellite communication, especially with Apple’s implementation of emergency SOS on their iPhone 14 and later models.
Initially, this allowed users to send emergency messages via satellite without any specialized equipment. With recent updates, Apple has expanded this feature to allow users to communicate with others, even when conventional methods are unavailable. Google’s Pixel 9 phone has similar functionality, and T-Mobile has partnered with Starlink to bring direct communication over satellites, an encouraging move for those in remote areas.
Another notable innovation is the Starlink mini (compensated affiliate link), an all-in-one satellite dish and router setup, offering reliable internet access even when other services are down. With up to 200 Mbps download speeds, it’s fast enough for most communication needs. Service can be purchased on a month-to-month basis, so you only have to pay for it when you need it.
Amateur radio also remains a valuable tool when all else fails. Recently, I earned my amateur radio license, allowing me to help organize communications in case of emergency. During natural disasters, amateur radio operators can play a critical role in providing food, water, and checking in on people when other communication lines are down. It’s a proven system that doesn’t rely on external infrastructure and has been successfully used in regions hit by storms.
Amateur operators in North Carolina are working around the clock to help coordinate aid to residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. You can listen in on their communications by clicking here.
One interesting aspect of amateur radio is its ability to send digital messages across vast distances, even without the internet. Using applications like Winlink, licensed operators can send emails to the Internet over radio frequencies, bypassing traditional communication lines. It may not be as fast as modern email, but in emergencies, it can be a lifeline. Regular practice, like “Winlink Wednesdays,” ensures that operators maintain their skills and are ready to help when the need arises.
These innovations—whether through satellite technology or tried-and-true amateur radio—are important pieces of tech to be aware of should disaster strike.
Friends and viewers have asked me to check out Unraid, a home server operating system, for quite awhile now, and in my latest video we take it out for a spin!
Unraid allows users to flexibly combine different types and sizes of storage drives into a single system while protecting data with a parity drive, making it resilient to drive failures. Unraid supports Docker containers and virtual machines, enabling users to host applications, media servers, and other services on their system. It runs on just about any x64 based system like the Healuck NAS I reviewed a few weeks ago. After spending a few hours with Unraid, I’m beginning to appreciate its flexibility.
Setting up Unraid requires a reliable USB drive to serve as the boot device, as the external drive is primary boot drive and will also store your configuration. While this might feel like an unusual approach, it offers a form of physical failover—if your computer hardware dies, you can simply transfer your hard drives to another PC and boot from the USB to get yourself back up and running.
Unraid operates differently than a traditional RAID array. Instead of mirroring data across multiple drives, it uses a parity drive to protect against data loss. I found it relatively simple to configure; the array allows you to add drives (and capacity) gradually without the need to rebuild everything from scratch each time. As long as your parity drive is as large or larger than your largest data drive, you’re covered for potential drive failures.
Like other network attached storage solutions, the system also provides the option to create shares that can be accessed over a network. These shares can be configured with the usual security settings, such as read-only access for guests or hidden shares for more privacy. If you want to speed up access, Unraid supports setting up a cache drive to handle faster writes before moving the data to slower protected volumes.
For those looking to run self-hosted applications, Unraid’s support for Docker containers along with their “Community Applications” plugin make it a very easy solution for deploying docker-based server apps.
During my testing, I installed FreshRSS, an open-source RSS reader, and had it up and running quickly. Unraid’s ability to update Docker containers with a single click was a pleasant surprise, saving me the hassle of manual updates.
While my experience with Unraid is still in its early stages, it’s already clear how powerful and versatile the platform can be, especially for self-hosted solutions. There’s much more to explore, including using Unraid for media servers like Plex, which I plan to dive into soon. This first impression, though, leaves me optimistic that Unraid might become a staple in my home server setup.
Disclosure : The Healuck NAS was provided to the channel free of charge but they did not review or approve this content before it was uploaded.
I’ve been a fan of Apple’s AirPods for years. Next to my phone these are probably my post used gadget. I recently picked up the new AirPods 4 that include active noise cancellation.
The price point for these is $179 (compensated affiliate link), with active noise cancellation, or $129 for the non-noise-canceling version. The charging case for the noise-canceling version also includes a speaker that can help you locate the AirPods if misplaced. Both versions support Apple’s “Find My” feature, but only the pricier model can emit a sound to help you track down the case. Additionally, the noise-canceling model allows wireless charging and can even charge magnetically on an Apple Watch charger.
I do not like in-ear headphones, so the earbud design of the AirPods 4 is much more comfortable for me. In terms of comfort, I found that these AirPods fit well and stay in place when I walk around. They even worked well while watching TV on the Apple TV in bed. Compared to version 3, the design has been slightly tweaked, but I didn’t notice much of a difference in how they fit.
Sound quality is another area where I noticed a big improvement. The bass is deeper and richer compared to previous versions, but without losing clarity in the higher tones. I mostly listen to podcasts, but I tested these with music, and the range of sound (especially bass) is much improved over the prior version.
The active noise cancellation was more effective than I expected. I tested it by running a vacuum cleaner and found that most of the noise was filtered out, though there was still a slight hiss breaking through. It isn’t as effective as over-ear headphones, but it’s impressive for this style of earbud. I’m looking forward to testing it on a plane soon to see how it handles more sustained noise.
Battery life is decent, offering about five hours of playback without noise cancellation and around four hours with it on. The case extends that to about 20 hours with noise cancellation and 30 hours without, which is consistent with previous versions.
Switching between devices, such as my iPhone and Apple TV, is seamless, as expected from Apple’s ecosystem.
For customization, the AirPods offer several options, including turning on noise cancellation or transparency mode, depending on your preferences. I found transparency mode less useful for these earbuds, as they don’t fully isolate outside sounds. There’s also a feature that lets you use head gestures to interact with Siri, though I didn’t find much use for that myself.
For those using non-Apple devices, these work like any other Bluetooth headphones, but pairing is a bit different. Instead of a physical button on the case, you double-tap the front, which puts the AirPods into pairing mode.
In terms of audio quality, these AirPods support lossless audio with Apple’s H2 chipset. Right now the only host device Apple sells with the H2 chipset is the Vision Pro headset, so at the moment no lossless audio will be transmitted from iPhones.
Overall, I’m impressed with the AirPods 4. They offer noticeable improvements in sound quality and noise cancellation, and the added features like wireless charging and the “Find My” speaker in the case are nice perks. If you’re considering an upgrade or a first pair of AirPods, these are definitely worth checking out.
I recently had the chance to test out Google’s latest TV streaming device, which is set to replace their lower-priced Chromecasts. Priced at $99 (compensated affiliate link), this device enters the more premium side of the market without the premium features enthusiasts might be expecting.
The packaging includes a power adapter, a USB power cable, and a remote, but no HDMI cable, which is worth noting for anyone planning to hook it up to a 4K TV. The remote control has a new customizable button that can be programmed to launch apps or switch inputs. I also found it to be very responsive for voice queries.
The Streamer does include gigabit Ethernet offering faster connectivity if you have an ethernet connection nearby.
Surprisingly it does not feature the latest Wi-Fi technology. While lower cost devices now have Wi-Fi 6 onboard, this one is running with the older AC technology. It’ll still work with any Wi-Fi access point, but it may not do as well on busy wireless networks.
The device performs smoothly, and I found its responsiveness to be impressive, especially when navigating apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus. Dolby Vision and Atmos audio worked as expected through those services. However, it still hasn’t solved the 24p playback issue that affects many TV shows and movies shot at 24 frames per second. Netflix handled it, but Prime Video and Disney Plus did not switch properly in my tests. This will likely be a deal-breaker for home theater enthusiasts.
Another deal breaker for enthusiasts is that the device does not passthrough lossless audio or HDR formats from high bit rate Blu-Ray rips.
The box is running Android 14, although I did not notice many differences from prior versions of Android with Google TV. Google is now integrating some AI-powered synopses of show details and audience reviews but these are mostly very brief summaries. But issues with Google TV’s universal watchlist persist – such as not being able to add Netflix shows to it.
One fun addition is the integration of AI-generated screen savers. You can request custom artwork directly, which is a neat feature. The AI-generated images it created, such as a Siberian Husky playing video games, were a whimsical touch but not something to base a purchasing decision on.
The Streamer supports the Matter home automation standard, making it compatible with a growing range of smart home devices, although my experience with Matter devices has been mixed. The one device I have on hand compatible with the standard did not work correctly.
Gaming performance doesn’t match the price point, especially when compared to the almost-ten-year-old Nvidia Shield which absolutely smokes the Streamer in benchmark tests. Even simple games like Crossy Road lag a bit. Game streaming worked fine, however, but I did notice quite a bit of input lag when using a bluetooth game controller.
Overall, the device works well for casual streaming and home automation, but the price feels steep given that other devices offer similar features for less. If you’re invested in Google’s ecosystem or interested in the future of Matter-compatible home devices, it may be worth a look, but budget-conscious consumers will find better value elsewhere.
I recently got my hands on the NotePin by Plaud AI, a compact and wearable voice recorder with a robust set of AI tools attached through its accompanying mobile app. Plaud’s value-add is that they’ve simplified the process of generating transcriptions (complete with speaker detection) along with AI generated summaries.
The NotePin is priced at $169 (compensated affiliate link) with an additional $79 per year subscription for the “Pro Plan” that includes additional monthly transcription minutes and additional summarization templates. You can also find the NotePin at Amazon (compensated affiliate link).
The free plan, however, is still quite functional, offering 300 minutes (5 hours) of transcription per month along with the summaries of those transcriptions. The Pro Plan comes with 1,200 monthly minutes (or 20 hours) of transcription time.
All of its AI magic happens in the cloud. The NotePin itself is just an audio recorder with 64 GB of storage and enough battery life to run for well over 10 hours between charges. It’s small, lightweight, and comes with accessories to wear it on your wrist, neck, or clipped to your clothes.
One of the things I would have liked to see is a clearer indication that the device is recording. The small red light that turns on is easy to miss, especially when it’s placed on a desk. That said, the recording process is straightforward: press down on the center of the NotePine to start and stop recording, with some haptic feedback to confirm the action.
The Plaud App handles all of the file management and transcription. The device connects via Bluetooth, and while that’s functional, transferring files takes time—an hour-long recording might take five to ten minutes to fully transfer. There’s an option to switch to Wi-Fi mode to speed this up, but it’s not on by default. Once a recording is transferred, you can either keep it as an audio file or send it to the cloud for transcription and summarization.
I tested this at a recent school board meeting, where I was surprised at how well it picked up voices across a large room. After uploading the audio to the app, the transcription process was smooth.
It labels the speakers, but you need to manually assign names to the voices in each session. It unfortunately doesn’t retain the voice prints of speakers that have been identified in prior sessions, so speakers need to be labeled every time. The app doesn’t always differentiate between speakers accurately, especially when they’re far from the microphone, but overall, the transcription quality was impressive.
What I found most interesting was the summary feature. The app generates a concise breakdown of the meeting, highlighting key points and action items. You can also adjust the summary format based on the type of meeting. The summary was mostly accurate, though there were a few minor mistakes. But for anyone looking to quickly capture the essence of a discussion without diving deep into the details, I found it to be quite effective. The minutes can be exported into a number of popular formats like Word, PDF and Markdown.
Another useful feature is that you can upload audio from other sources into the app for transcription, meaning you’re not limited to recordings made on the Note Pin itself.
If you don’t exceed the free five hours of transcription per month, I found you won’t need to pay anything extra, though that could change in the future. Many companies I’ve covered in the past discover that a robust set of free server-side features are often hard to sustain over the long term.
If you’re in need of a quick, easy, and compact tool for turning meeting recordings into transcripts and summaries without much hassle, this could be a good fit. It’s not doing anything that you couldn’t do yourself with free transcription tools and services like ChatGPT, but I like the turnkey simplicity that Plaud has put together along with an elegant and simple piece of hardware.
Disclosure: Plaud.AI provided the NotePin to the channel free of charge. They did not review or approve this review before it was posted and all of the opinions express are my own.
I first reviewed Frontier’s Optic Service here in Connecticut two years ago when my Dad had the 500/500 service installed. My mother had the service installed at her place a year later. Recently, I received a lot of comments asking how well the service is holding up. For the most part, it’s been stable, but there are a few key things to watch out for, especially when it comes to billing.
The service itself has been great in terms of bandwidth and reliability, even in challenging areas like my father’s home near the beach, where salty air causes corrosion on traditional coax wires and connectors. Compared to cable services, which often needed repair due to corroded connectors, Frontier’s fiber optic technology has been much more reliable for him.
However, it’s not all good news, particularly when it comes to customer support and billing. When my mom signed up, she encountered multiple issues. Her initial service order was botched, resulting in two accounts being set up, and it took several rounds of customer service calls to sort out.
After a year of service, her bill began to creep up. Initially, her service package cost around $150 per month, but as promotions ended and prices increased, she found herself paying $300 more annually, with no change in the level of service. By mid-2024, her bill had risen to nearly $176, mainly due to increases in the base price for the Internet service, the expiration of promotional discounts for YouTube TV, and a reduction in the autopay discount.
Frontier’s online tools for managing the account were less than helpful. When I attempted to change her service plan, their website crashed. Despite the challenges, it may be worthwhile to switch her to Frontier’s newer, more affordable 200 Mbps symmetrical plan, which didn’t exist when she first signed up.
Frontier now offers higher-end packages with speeds of up to 7 gigabits per second across most of their fiber service area. But, as impressive as that may sound, it’s not necessarily practical, since most online services usually top out at around 2 gigs. Also of note, Comcast’s Gigabit Pro costs about the same as the 7 gig plan with a more robust metro ethernet connection.
The deal still requires shareholder and regulatory approval, and there are concerns within the financial community about whether it will benefit Verizon. In the meantime, Frontier customers should keep an eye on their bills. While the service itself is reliable, navigating customer support and billing issues will sadly be an ongoing challenge.
Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, this device comes with a price tag of $679, although the initial list price is $799, with a coupon currently offering a $120 discount. It’s equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 dual channel memory, upgradeable to 96 GB, and features a 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD, with a 4.0 NVME second slot available for additional storage.
The build quality of the SEi14 looks and feels nice with its aluminum case, a design seemingly inspired by Apple, though the back and bottom are plastic. It doesn’t come with a VESA mount, making it more of a desktop unit.
In terms of connectivity, the SEi14 provides a wide array of ports, including USB Type-C, USB-A, and dual-display output via HDMI and DisplayPort, supporting 4K at 60Hz. It also includes a Thunderbolt 4 port in the pack, capable of handling external GPUs and fast storage. Its ethernet port runs at 2.5 Gbps, but unlike other Mini PCs with two, this one only has a single ethernet port.
The system is quiet even under heavy load. Power consumption, however, hovers around 32 watts at idle which is a bit higher than some of the other Mini PCs we’ve looked at lately. It’ll run at 86 watts under heavy load. The 3DMark Timespy stress test reported that the system can maintain stable performance over time, even when under heavy load.
When it comes to real-world performance, the SEi14 performed adequately across a range of tasks. Web browsing is fast, and it handled 4K 60fps video playback without issues. On the gaming front, it managed to play titles like Red Dead Redemption 2 and No Man’s Sky at 1080p with frame rates around 45-50 frames per second, albeit on the lowest settings. Benchmark tests indicated its performance is consistent with expectations for devices equipped with this Intel Core Ultra processor.
For creators, basic video editing tasks are feasible, and while professional-level 3D rendering or color grading would require external GPU support, everyday editing tasks should be manageable on this machine.
For users preferring Linux, Ubuntu ran with few issues, though the system’s Intel-based Wi-Fi adapter wasn’t immediately recognized, a problem likely solvable with future driver updates. Wired Ethernet worked as expected, and overall performance was smooth.
The SEi14 is a well-rounded, premium Mini PC for those who require more from a compact form factor. Its price might be higher than some alternatives, but its combination of upgradeability, performance, and quiet operation makes it an option worth considering for those in need of a reliable, versatile Mini PC.
I recently got my hands on a device that stands out for its unconventional approach: the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid. At first glance, it looks like your average Lenovo laptop, but there’s a twist. The screen detaches, transforming that portion of the device into an Android tablet while Windows still runs on the keyboard deck.
This hybrid setup is well executed, although it comes with a hefty price tag of around $3,500. For that, you get the laptop, the detachable 14-inch 2.8K OLED touch display, a pen, and a stand. While the package is convenient, it’s worth noting that you could buy separate devices for less, but Lenovo seems to be betting on the appeal of having everything in one.
On the Windows side, the laptop is powered by a Core Ultra 7 155H processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The Android tablet features a Snapdragon 8+ processor, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. The device weighs in at around 3.87 pounds, heavier than other laptops, but considering it doubles as both a laptop and a tablet, it’s understandable.
Both systems run simultaneously, so pulling the screen off the keyboard deck will immediately switch the tablet display from Windows to Android. Windows will continue to run on the keyboard deck but a display will need to be connected to the keyboard deck in order for user interaction.
It’s also possible to switch between Windows and Android when the display is attached with a specialized key on the keyboard. When the key is pressed Windows continues to run but the keyboard, trackpad, webcam and pen all connect to Android.
One of the more unique features of the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is its “hybrid stream” functionality. This allows you to stream the Android tablet’s screen directly to the Windows side. Essentially, you can control the Android interface within a window on the Windows desktop, allowing for a fluid experience when switching between tasks. It’s a handy way to interact with Android apps without having to physically switch back and forth between the two systems. However, the reverse isn’t possible—you can’t control the Windows side from Android. While the stream works smoothly, there’s some minor lag, especially noticeable when using the touch display.
Another cross-system feature is the built-in file syncing between the two operating systems. Lenovo has included a shared folder, which appears as an “A:\” drive on the Windows side. This feature allows you to sync files between the Android and Windows systems. For example, if you save a file in the shared folder, it becomes accessible on both the Windows desktop and the Android tablet. This syncing isn’t live, so you’ll need to ensure you’re not editing the same file on both systems simultaneously to avoid conflicts. It’s not the most seamless integration, but it provides a functional way to share files across the two platforms when working between Android and Windows.
As far as battery life goes, you can get up to 20 hours of use if you switch between operating systems strategically. The Windows component does have a nice large 75wh battery which should get through most of a workday on its own.
Gaming and video editing are possible on both Windows and Android, though the hardware limitations might affect more demanding tasks. The Snapdragon processor handles Android apps and gaming smoothly, while the Intel chip delivers solid performance for Windows tasks with the capability to play some AAA titles at the lowest settings at either 1080p or 720p.
One area that might leave some wanting more is the pen experience. While functional on both systems, there’s noticeable latency, and using the pen on Windows can feel awkward since the display doesn’t lay flat. It’s not ideal for serious drawing or note-taking but works for basic tasks.
While many companies may never have a product like this leave their R&D lab, Lenovo likes to bring their concept ideas to market to see what sticks. It’s possible we may see a lower cost version of this in the future if they see some market interest.
But its high price tag make it more of a niche product. It’s a well-built machine, and if you’re looking for a device that blends Windows and Android as seamlessly as possible, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid delivers on that promise. But for most people, separate devices might still be the more affordable solution.
Disclosure: Lenovo provided this laptop on loan to the channel for this review but did not sponsor this video. They also did not review or approve this post or video before upload. All opinions are my own.
I recently embarked on my first flight lesson, something I’ve wanted to do for many years now. Having spent the better part of 30 years experiencing flight with PC based simulators, I was curious to see how close to the real thing sims can be.
I remember my grandfather, who flew planes in World War II, telling me that to really experience flying you have to “feel it in your butt.” This advice stuck with me over the years, and when I took my first hands-on flying experience it became clear just how important feeling the plane and the air around it is for piloting it successfully.
I trained in a Piper Cherokee 140, which is known to be a good aircraft for beginners. My instructor handled the takeoff, but soon enough, I took control and was responsible for keeping the plane stable and maintaining altitude. Conditions were quite bumpy on this first flight, making it even more challenging. But this turbulence became a valuable part of the lesson, helping me to get accustomed to the controls and feeling how the air interacts with them.
What struck me most about the real flight was how different it felt compared to simulators. Despite decades of flying in virtual worlds, the physical input — how the air interacts with the plane — was something completely new. By the second half of the flight, I started to get more comfortable, even managing to land the plane successfully. My instructor said about 90% of the landing was my own doing! Unlike in the simulator, where I frequently veer off the runway, I managed to keep the real plane on the center line (or at least close enough to it).
One thing that simulators do get right is the visual aspect. I’ve been using the latest version of Microsoft Flight Simulator, and it was amazing to see how closely the simulated environment resembled the real world. Flying over Hartford, Connecticut in the simulator looked very much like the actual experience, from the city skyline to the water reflections. However, the feel of the controls in the real plane was another story. The simulator controls I’ve been using are not even a close representation of the real thing.. In fact I found flying the real plane easier than the simulator!
As I continue my flight training, I’m sure I’ll gain even more insights, and I look forward to sharing them with those interested in aviation. To that end I’ve started a new channel at https://lon.tv/flying where I’ll post diaries of my flight training progress. Right now there’s no content up there but I will be uploading soon. Subscribe so you don’t miss a thing!
I recently got my hands on an intriguing little device from an unknown company called Healuck, designed for anyone looking to roll their own Network Attached Storage (NAS) system. The model I tested is powered by an Intel N100 mini PC and features two or four hot-swappable 3.5″ SATA hard drive bays. At first glance, it looks like a mini PC, but its design clearly positions it more as a DIY NAS solution.
The unit I reviewed was the two-bay configuration, priced around $320, with 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD. If you need more storage, a four-bay version is available for about $100 more. Given the minor price difference, I’d likely go for the four-bay option to provide more flexibility with storage configurations. The internal components are fairly standard for an N100-based device. There’s only one slot for DDR5 RAM, and it comes with an NVMe drive as well. While it’s upgradeable, taking the unit apart is a bit tricky due to the design. The motherboard needs to be held in place as you reassemble the case, which doesn’t exactly inspire confidence.
The unit also features two 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports, both of which performed well during testing, maintaining stable, symmetrical connections.
Setting up the unit is relatively simple. It comes with Open Media Vault (OMV), an open-source Linux-based NAS operating system, preinstalled on the NVME SSD. While it boots from the internal SSD, you’ll need to add your own storage drives for mainline storage.
I was impressed by the tool-less drive trays, which allow for easy hot-swapping without the need for screws. Once the drives are in place, configuring the system is straightforward via OMV’s web-based control panel. Although it’s basic, OMV provides essential NAS functionality like SMB and NFS file sharing, as well as user and folder management.
However, it’s worth noting that the device lacks hardware-based RAID, meaning that RAID management is handled by the operating system, which could result in a bit of CPU overhead.
I set up a Btrfs file system in a RAID 1 configuration for redundancy, similar to what you’d find on more expensive NAS systems. OMV doesn’t come with Plex pre-installed, and getting Plex to run requires setting up Docker first, which could be a bit of a hurdle for those unfamiliar with Linux and containers. Despite this, OMV is well-supported and regularly updated, which is reassuring. But other NAS operating systems like Unraid can be easily installed too. I even managed to boot up the desktop version of Ubuntu on the unit.
When it comes to power consumption, the device draws around 25 watts at idle with two drives spinning.
In terms of performance, the N100 processor holds up well, delivering consistent results comparable to other mini PCs with the same chip.
If you’re looking for something more reliable or mission-critical, I’d recommend considering a more established brand like Synology or QNAP. However, as an inexpensive media server, this could be a fun and functional project. The N100 chip, while modest, is powerful enough to handle basic NAS tasks.
I’m planning to test Unraid on it next to see how it handles Plex and other media server tasks. If you’re interested in a project PC that’s ready to go out of the box, this might be a worthwhile option to explore. I hope to start working on that in the next week or two. Stay tuned!
I’ve been closely following the transition of over-the-air television in the U.S. to the new ATSC 3.0 standard, also known as NextGenTV. Initially, the process appeared smooth, but things started to take a turn. Broadcasters began encrypting channels, making them inaccessible to viewers. Then, the industry was hit with a significant lawsuit that forced LG, one of the largest TV manufacturers, to pull its ATSC 3.0 tuners off the market.
In my latest video, we take a look at how the industry is responding to this lawsuit one year out. Broadcast industry association Pearl TV told the FCC last year that this lawsuit had no impact on the transition to ATSC 3.0, but they told a very different story to an appeals court hearing the case last week.
That lawsuit, filed by Constellation Designs, didn’t seek an astronomical sum—only $1.6 million in damages. But the real issue was the future costs: LG would have to pay a $6.75 royalty per unit for every television equipped with the tuner. This rate was about six times what they were paying to the patent pool for other related patents. LG, understandably, decided to exit the market rather than absorb those costs.
Fast forward to the present, and the broadcasters’ association, Pearl TV, has filed a brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals. They argue that the lawsuit could jeopardize the transition to ATSC 3.0. Their concern is that other patent holders, seeing the success of Constellation Designs, might also opt out of the patent pool, potentially leading to more lawsuits and higher costs for manufacturers. If that happens, they fear other TV manufacturers might follow LG’s lead and exit the market as well.
What’s interesting, though, is that Pearl TV’s message to the FCC last year was quite different. After the lawsuit, they downplayed the issue, saying everything was fine and there was no need for the FCC to intervene. They argued that the patent pools were functioning well and that there was no sign of market failure.
Despite Pearl’s reassurance to the FCC, the market tells a different story. Only a handful of new televisions this year included ATSC 3.0 tuners, and most are found only in high-end televisions that aren’t affordable for everyone. Panasonic’s recent announcement of their return to the U.S. market with TVs featuring ATSC 3.0 tuners adds some hope. However, those tuners won’t be activated until a future firmware update, and there’s no clear timeline for when that will happen.
The broader issue here seems to be that broadcasters are attempting to turn this new standard into a proprietary one. With ATSC 1.0, if a manufacturer’s product meets the FCC’s standards, they can build a tuner and sell it on the market. But under ATSC 3.0, manufacturers must get approval from broadcasters, pay for testing and certifications, and potentially face high royalty fees from DRM, which could make it financially unfeasible for many small hardware and software companies to participate.
The result is that consumers may end up paying more for television access, and options will remain limited – especially as the DRM encryption prevents the use of gateway devices that allow in-home streaming to televisions not connected to an antenna. This is particularly concerning given that broadcasters use public airwaves for free.
I’ve been encouraging viewers to make their voices heard with the FCC regarding these issues. Many have already submitted filings, and the ATSC 3.0 proceeding is now one of the FCC’s top concerns. It’s clear that public dissatisfaction with the transition is growing.
With a U.S. election coming up, followed by a presidential transition, this is a pivotal moment to influence how the FCC approaches the ATSC 3.0 standard. There’s an opportunity to ensure that the new standard benefits consumers, not just broadcasters. The more public feedback that can be submitted now, the better the chances of ensuring a fair and accessible transition.
I spent this past week in Germany attending some events ahead of the IFA consumer electronics trade show. IFA is the European equivalent to CES here in the United States. Lenovo sponsored this trip, covering my travel expenses. No additional compensation was received.
My report consists of things I found of interest at two press events – one sponsored by Showstoppers that showcased products from 80 different companies, and a press event Lenovo held at a very cool industrial venue called Kraftwerks.
Showstoppers had a few cool gadgets on display, including some neat mechanical keyboards from Epomaker, a monstrous looking modular yard maintenance device called the “Yarbo,” and a bunch of other cool gadgets.
Pre-pandemic, IFA was always Lenovo’s huge showcase event. This year was the first time since the pandemic that Lenovo pulled out all the stops for a major IFA presentation. You can see just how extensive the presentation was in my dispatch video.
Lenovo’s presentation did not have any groundbreaking new product announcements, with the exception of a concept PC featuring a lid that automatically opens and tracks the user’s movements. But they did show off some nice PCs including a number of sub $1,000 ARM windows machines running with Snapdragon X Plus processors.
What was interesting was the fact that Intel is no longer the dominant chip platform for PCs – there was equal billing given to AMD and Qualcomm both in the keynote presentation and in product announcements. All three chipmakers now have PCs compatible with the Microsoft Co-Pilot+ AI specification that allows for on-device AI processing.
I was unable to stay for the rest of the IFA show due to the costs I would incur for full coverage. But hopefully this dispatch gives you a taste of what tech companies will be marketing to European users in the months ahead.
If you liked the style of this video I have hours more of it! See my dispatches playlist for coverage of CES, other regional product showcases and more! If you’re curious about what I use to cover these events I’m now using just my iPhone with a Sennheiser AVX microphone attached. You can see my set up in this video.
My next dispatch will likely be at the end of October for Pepcom’s holiday preview show in New York City. Stay tuned!
The 8bitdo Pro 2 has long been my favorite game controller, and now with the introduction of hall effect analog sticks, it has seen a notable upgrade. You can see it in action in my latest review.
Unlike its predecessor, which used Alps-based potentiometers, the hall effect sticks rely on magnetic sensors. This results in a smoother, more precise control with reduced chances of stick drift over time. While the rest of the controller remains largely the same, this improvement is a nice step forward for those looking for durability and accuracy in gameplay.
The hall effect sticks provide a high degree of sensitivity and precision, with very little dead zone by default. This is a step up from the older model, which often experienced stick drift after prolonged use. The vibration motors remain strong, and the d-pad, a staple of the 8bitdo Pro series, continues to impress, especially for retro gaming enthusiasts.
The price point remains around $50, with several color options available, including crystal blue, green, & purple, along with more retro styles like a Game Boy color scheme. Its design remains faithful to the original, featuring a PlayStation-style layout that many users have come to appreciate. A standout feature is its wide compatibility, supporting platforms such as PCs, the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, iOS and ChromeOS. It unfortunately lacks support for PlayStation and Xbox consoles. Its motion controls work well with titles like Mario Odyssey.
One of the controller’s strengths is its configurability. Through 8bitdo’s Ultimate Software, users can remap buttons, set macros, and adjust the sensitivity of both the sticks and triggers.
The controller offers versatility in power options, supporting both an included removable rechargeable battery and standard AA batteries. While Bluetooth is the primary wireless connection, users who prefer a more stable and lower-latency experience may opt to connect via USB.
In terms of gameplay, the hall effect sticks feel smoother and more consistent compared to the older Alps-based sticks. This improvement may seem subtle, but for gamers familiar with the older Pro 2 model, it is a noticeable and welcome improvement. The original was not bad by any means but this just feels better.
Overall, the 8bitdo Pro 2 with hall effect sticks feels like a refined version of an already excellent controller. The improvements in stick precision and durability, combined with its continued versatility, make it a solid recommendation for anyone in need of a high-quality gaming controller. While the changes may not seem drastic at first glance, I would recommend buyers seek out the hall effect version for the best results.
Disclaimer: 8bitdo provided the controller free of charge. However they did not review or approve this content before it was uploaded.
Apple recently sent out invitations for an event on September 9th, likely to announce the iPhone 16. This announcement has sparked discussions on social media about the battery longevity of current iPhones along with dashed hopes of user replaceable batteries. We take a deeper dive in my latest video.
After a year of use, my iPhone 15 Pro Max’s battery capacity has decreased by about 8%, with 278 charging cycles logged. While I’ve noticed a reduction in overall battery life from when I first purchased the phone, it is doing slightly better than where my iPhone 14 Pro was at a year ago. This might be due to the iPhone 14 Pro having a smaller battery and thus more charging cycles. Either way I’m well within the stated performance expectations for Apple’s iPhone batteries.
Apple claims that the iPhone 15 models are designed to retain 80% of their original capacity after 1,000 complete charge cycles, a step up from the 500 cycle claim for the iPhone 14 and earlier models.
This improvement seems to align with a new European Union regulation that mandates user-replaceable batteries, but with a significant loophole if batteries can maintain, you guessed it, 80% capacity after 1,000 charge cycles. If a device can maintain at least 80% capacity after 1,000 full charge cycles and is waterproof, it is exempt from the regulation, meaning Apple can continue producing phones with non-user-replaceable batteries. One might argue that Apple engineered to the spec, or perhaps Apple’s lobbyists helped engineer a law that meets their hardware performance levels.
Apple provides guidelines on maximizing battery lifespan, emphasizing the importance of keeping your phone cool, especially during charging. They recommend avoiding exposure to temperatures above 95°F (35°C), which can permanently damage battery capacity. Many of us, myself included, charge our phones wirelessly or use fast chargers, both of which generate heat and contribute to battery degradation. Apple also suggests that phone cases can trap heat, further accelerating battery wear.
For those considering battery replacement, Apple offers the service for $100, but there’s a catch. If your phone has any other damage, such as a cracked screen, Apple will require you to fix that first, potentially turning a $100 battery replacement into a much more expensive repair. While it’s possible to replace the battery yourself using a guide from iFixit, the process is complicated and requires specialized tools.
Anecdotally, based on comments I’ve seen, it seems people who avoid fully charging their phones every time and opt for slower wired chargers might experience better battery longevity than those of us who use faster, heat-generating charging options.
For this month’s sponsored Plex video we take a look at a few several minor yet useful features for its Plex Pass subscribers that might enhance the overall user experience. While these features may not seem groundbreaking, they can offer a more tailored and convenient viewing experience. Take a look in my latest video.
One of the new features, “Rewind on Resume,” is designed for those moments when you’re interrupted mid-viewing. Instead of resuming exactly where you left off, this feature allows the video to rewind a specified number of seconds, helping you remember what was happening before you paused. This could be particularly useful for those who, like many of us, find themselves frequently interrupted by daily life.
Another feature adds player controls for the “Skip Intro” and “Skip Credits” options that were previously only set at the server level. Users can choose to have intros and credits skipped automatically, manually, or not at all, depending on their preference. This is especially convenient for binge-watchers who want to skip past the end credits of a concluding episode and the intro credits on the subsequent one.
For those who utilize Plex’s DVR feature, there’s an option to automatically skip commercials during playback. However, this only applies to content recorded via the DVR and not to manually added other content. This feature, like the skip intro and credits options, can be customized to the user’s preference, allowing for automatic skipping or manual control.
Of note – the skip features are not yet available on every Plex player. Unfortunately Apple devices do not have these player-level controls at the time of this post.
Another little feature will provide some help for those of us who often fall asleep in front of the TV. Called the “Passout Protection” feature, this setting allows the user to set a time limit after which the playback will stop. This can be set for one to three hours, with a prompt asking if you’re still watching before the playback stops. Alternatively, this prompt can be disabled for those who prefer uninterrupted viewing.
Lastly, Plex has enhanced its music player, Plexamp, with a feature called “Mix Builder.” This allows users to create playlists based on selected artists or albums. Unlike some other Plexamp features that can take you on a musical journey, this feature lets users curate their own listening experience by locking the playlist onto specific artists or albums.
While these features may not revolutionize your Plex experience, they do offer small improvements that can make using the service more enjoyable. For those with a Plex Pass and compatible devices, exploring these options might reveal some valuable enhancements to your media consumption habits.
Disclaimer: This post & video was sponsored by Plex but they did not review or approve the content before it was posted.
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.
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.
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!
