Category Archives: Gadget Man

The Gadget Man – Episode 179 – Navigating the Murky Waters of Jailbroken Streaming Devices: A Cautionary Tale

Today I had the pleasure of chatting with Trish Adudu on her drivetime show on BBC Radio CWR about Jailbroken Streaming Devices.

In the golden era of television, our choices were simple, defined by the limited channels available through traditional broadcast. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has dramatically shifted. The digital revolution has ushered in an age where streaming platforms are king, offering a cornucopia of content that was once unimaginable. Yet, with this abundance comes a new set of challenges for consumers navigating the costs and legalities of accessing their favorite shows and movies.

Enter the controversial world of jailbroken or “dodgy” fire sticks. These modified devices promise a world of free content, bypassing the subscription fees of mainstream streaming services. At first glance, the allure is undeniable. Who wouldn’t want access to endless entertainment without the hefty price tag? But as we peel back the layers, the darker implications of these devices come to light.

The Legal Grey Zone

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge the elephant in the room: jailbroken fire sticks are illegal. Despite their widespread availability and the somewhat cavalier attitude some may have towards using them, they pose significant legal risks to users. Beyond the risk of fines or legal action, there’s a deeper issue at play here—the ethics of content consumption. In our quest for convenience and cost-saving, we must ask ourselves: at what price does this come to the creators and distributors of the content we consume?

The Cost of Convenience

The debate over streaming platforms’ pricing structures is valid, especially in a world grappling with rising living costs. However, turning to illegal alternatives like jailbroken fire sticks isn’t a victimless crime. It undermines the very industry that entertains us, potentially stifling the creation of new content. Moreover, the risks extend beyond legal ramifications. Using these devices can expose users to cybersecurity threats, including theft of personal and financial information. Trusting one’s digital safety to the hands of unknown, potentially criminal entities is a gamble few should be willing to take.

A Fragmented Marketplace

The current streaming landscape is indeed fragmented, with exclusive content spread across numerous platforms. This exclusivity can lead to subscription fatigue, as consumers find themselves subscribing to multiple services to access all the content they desire—a costly endeavor. This fragmentation fuels the temptation to seek out illegal alternatives. Yet, it also calls for a discussion on the sustainability of the current model and the need for more consumer-friendly solutions.

Looking Forward

As we navigate the evolving world of digital content consumption, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. While the allure of free content is undeniable, the risks and ethical implications of jailbroken streaming devices cannot be overlooked. It’s a reminder of the need for a balanced approach that respects the rights of content creators while also considering the affordability and accessibility for consumers. Perhaps the future will bring more innovative solutions to this dilemma, but until then, the debate rages on.

The gadget world is vast and ever-changing, but as we venture into its depths, let’s tread carefully, mindful of the legal and ethical boundaries that govern our digital playground.

Sitpack announces the availability of the Campster 2 lightweight and ultra-portable chair with a five second unfold for everyone, everywhere

Following a hugely successful crowdfunding campaign of the Danish designed Campster 2 portable chair in 2023, where over fourteen thousand backers brought the product to life, Sitpack is thrilled to announce the official availability of the hit product.   The Campster 2 is available to buy now in orange or black from the Sitpack website for £89/$110.

Sitpack announces the availability of the Campster 2 lightweight and ultra-portable chair with a five second unfold for everyone, everywhere
Sitpack announces the availability of the Campster 2 lightweight and ultra-portable chair with a five second unfold for everyone, everywhere

In the realm of outdoor seating innovation, the Sitpack Campster 2 emerges as the ultimate portable chair, ready to redefine comfort and convenience for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing in at a mere 3.3 lbs and boasting a 5-second setup time, the Campster 2 is a testament to minimalist Danish design at its finest. Crafted with a sturdy aluminium frame, the chair supports up to 300 lbs and features an embracing seat design with a comfortable 12″ seating height. Whether embarking on a camping trip, heading to the beach, or enjoying an RV adventure, the Campster 2 is the go-to choice.

Sitpack announces the availability of the Campster 2 lightweight and ultra-portable chair with a five second unfold for everyone, everywhere

The chair’s one-piece design folds down to the size of a 1.5-liter bottle and includes a shoulder strap carrying case and a S-carabiner, making it effortlessly portable, unfolding with ease, thanks to its unique grab-n-pull system and quad-supported legs, providing stability on various terrains. Designed based on valuable feedback from Campster 1 users, this iteration combines lightweight portability with ergonomic comfort, ensuring an enjoyable seating experience anywhere on the go.

For those who relish the great outdoors, the Campster 2 is not just a chair; it’s a lifestyle accessory. With a redesigned frame for enhanced stability, it remains solid on grass, sand, or gravel. The chair’s versatility extends to its compatibility with a range of accessories, from micro-fiber towels to seat warmers and bottle holders, allowing users to customize their experience.

Temperature regulation is a priority, with a large mesh area on the backrest and thighs for warmer environments. Additionally, optional windproof and insulated covers cater to colder days, ensuring year-round comfort. The ground sheet accessory ensures a consistent sitting height on any surface, from sandy beaches to solid ground.

Sitpack takes pride in its team of experienced professionals working across the US, EU, and Asia, ensuring cost-effective production without compromising quality. The Campster 2, a culmination of years of product development, represents a commitment to delivering the best in outdoor seating solutions. As the latest addition to Sitpack’s lineup, the Campster 2, with its sleek design and durability, continues the brand’s legacy of creating innovative and comfortable seating options for all adventurers.

Additional Extra – Seat warmers

Following feedback from users, Sitpack has also introduced seat warmers as an add-on feature for Sitpack Campster. The internet has voiced that seat warmers increase comfort, provide warmth in cooler weather, and create a cozy seating experience, making them a must-have add-on for travelers who seek all-year comfort.

The Sitpack Campster 2 is available from the Sitpack website for £89/$110.

For more information visit Sitpack’s website or learn more on the Facebook page or via Twitter

The Gadget Man – Episode 178: Rice, Phones, and Chili Con Carne: Debunking Tech Myths with Malcolm Boyden

In this latest episode of The Gadget Man, Matt unravels the long-standing myth about using rice to dry out wet mobile phones.

Despite its popularity, this method is debunked as ineffective and potentially harmful.

The Gadget Man - Episode 178: Rice, Phones, and Chili Con Carne: Debunking Tech Myths with Malcolm Boyden
The Gadget Man – Episode 178: Rice, Phones, and Chili Con Carne: Debunking Tech Myths with Malcolm Boyden

Apple itself has issued guidance against it, warning that rice grains can damage the device by blocking ports and causing corrosion. Instead,

Matt suggests allowing the phone to dry out naturally in a dry, airy place, highlighting modern phones’ water resistance capabilities and the importance of gentle care in case of water exposure.

Rice can damage devices
Rice can damage devices

The conversation takes a lighter turn with a humorous suggestion for the best use of rice: making chili-con-carne, adding a flavourful twist to the tech discussion.

Dropping your phone in water is now not the disaster it used to be
Dropping your phone in water is now not the disaster it used to be

This episode not only clears up a common misconception but also serves up a side of humour, making it a must-listen for tech enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and share!

See you next time!

 

Mowasalat Teams Up with AEMOB to Revolutionize the Future of e-Mobility

In what could be a game-changer for the world of autonomous e-mobility, Mowasalat (Karwa), Qatar’s premier transportation company, has officially partnered with the Autonomous e-Mobility Forum (AEMOB). This groundbreaking collaboration is set to pave the way for cutting-edge, sustainable transport solutions that are as smart as they are eco-friendly.

The Drive Towards a Sustainable Future

The AEMOB, which is gaining momentum in the global e-mobility conversation, is hosting its next big event in Doha, Qatar, from April 30 to May 2, 2024, under the patronage of His Excellency Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transport. With the Ministry of Transport at the helm as a strategic partner, the forum is expected to be nothing short of a hotbed for innovation.

A Partnership of Progressive Minds

Mowasalat’s entry into this partnership is not just a step but a giant leap towards intelligent transport solutions that are tailor-made for Qatar’s needs while contributing to the global e-mobility landscape. Ahmad Hassan Al-Obaidly, COO of Mowasalat, couldn’t hide his excitement: “This isn’t just about being at the forefront of technology; it’s about being responsible stewards of the environment. We’re ready to drive the future of e-mobility, not just in Qatar, but globally.”

On the Road to Qatar National Vision 2030

This collaboration aligns perfectly with the Qatar National Vision 2030, propelling the nation towards a future where driverless e-mobility is not just a concept, but a reality. The 2024 AEMOB Forum is set to be a cornerstone event that brings together the brightest minds from government, industry, academia, and the media.

Join the Movement

Interested in being part of the e-mobility revolution? Tickets for the AEMOB Forum are up for grabs! Visit www.aemobforum.com to secure your spot among policymakers, tech gurus, and industry leaders. And for a deep dive into Mowasalat’s world of transport innovations, head over to www.mowasalat.com.

For all the tech enthusiasts and sustainable transport advocates out there, stay tuned to The Gadget Man for more updates on this exciting partnership!

Upgrade Your Gaming Setup For Maximum Enjoyment

If you are a gamer, you know what it means to truly immerse yourself in the game. You learn about the characters, their unique backstories, and become invested in the ultimate quest to defeat evil, or sometimes just get from Point A to Point B whilst accomplishing gratifying challenges. Regardless of the games you play or your end goals, you could probably benefit from a gaming setup refresh. Keep reading for some simple yet attainable ideas to invigorate your gaming experience.

Invest in a New Gaming System

As an experienced gamer, you already know what it means to have the latest technology. Not only is it just fun and exciting to open up a new gaming setup, it means you will not succumb to the dreaded lag. When your system is out-of-date and old, you experience glitches and unwanted lag time. When the unwanted freeze on the screen comes back to life, you may find that your character has fallen into a chasm of doom or worse – has been annihilated by the enemy. Nobody wants that. 

Save your character, stats, and your cred by investing in a new gaming PC bundle. A better processor means more speed and many more hours of fun. This applies not only to you but the people you play with online. If your partner needs backup and your screen is frozen, you will not have their back. Be a better teammate and upgrade for a better experience for everyone. Improved graphics cards, processors, and enhancements will provide more enjoyment.

Attend to the Details

There are a lot of little things that go into making your gaming setup and space functional. Everything from where to corral your cords to how you place your monitor will all make a difference in how it looks and what you experience. If you are someone who appreciates order and tidiness, you can still have that within your gaming area. 

Here are some things to attend to before sitting down to play.

  • Dedicate a place for drinks or snacks so you do not inadvertently spill on your tech. A side table next to the desk or couch works well. This is especially important if you are using VR tech.
  • Organize your cords and power strips before playing to limit unsightly distractions and make your area safer. (See the video below for tips.)
  • Have chargers or backup battery packs and cords accessible. House them in a TV stand, cupboard, or desk drawer to keep distractions at bay.
  • Ensure your seating is comfortable. No one wants to sit down for a gaming marathon and wind up with an aching back. Try out chairs in person or check out reviews online to find the best fit for your height and preferences.

Watch this video to learn 10 easy tips you can use to enhance your gaming setup.

Enhance the Lighting

As a gamer, you are focused on the screen before you and want to reduce distractions in the space around you. Lights that are too bright or harsh can cause you to lose the focal point of your game. You want to be able to pay attention to the amazing graphics on your new system instead of being concerned that the overhead fluorescents are causing you to strain your eyes.

You can fix your lighting problem in a few different ways. 

  • Install New LightsIf you rent this might not be an option. However, if you can, consider installing new lights that are dimmable and have smart technology features. Some light bulbs have colour-changing options that you can manipulate from an app on your phone or a voice command to your digital assistant.
  • Add Targeted LightingTargeted lights, such as table lamps, are perfect for gaming spaces as you can turn off the overhead lights and only use these to illuminate your room with minimal brightness to not distract from the game. This is a good option for renters.
  • Show Some Personality – You can have a lot of fun with lighting. Hang a neon game controller sign on the wall above the TV or couch. Use removable tape to hang LED colour-changing rope lights along the tops of the walls in the room. Many of these have remote controls to change the colour settings for more fun.

It is time to elevate your gaming tech to get to the next level. By following these easy tips, you will have more fun, guaranteed. Whether you achieve your next goal is up to you. No matter what, with new gaming gear you will have fun trying.

The Gadget Man, Episode 177 – My Incredible Journey into Text-to-Speech and Cloning My Voice with AI Magic.

Note: Listening to the attached Podcast is a must for this article.

*UPDATE* Correct link updated!

Hello, fellow gadget lovers and tech enthusiasts! It’s me again, your friendly neighbourhood Gadget Man, diving into another thrilling tech adventure. Today, I’m stepping into the futuristic realm of text-to-speech technology. But hold onto your hats, because this isn’t just any text-to-speech; we’re talking about cloning your own voice using the latest AI systems!

Remember those sci-fi movies where characters would replicate their voices using high-tech gadgets? Well, guess what? That future is now, and I’ve just had a mind-blowing experience with it. Imagine creating audio that sounds almost 100% identical to your real voice. Sounds like something out of a dream, right? But it’s real, and I’ve done it!

I used a cutting-edge tool from Eleven Labs – yes, the name already sounds like it’s straight out of a sci-fi novel. This technology is so advanced that it can capture the unique nuances of your voice, and then, using AI, it replicates it to create eerily accurate audio. The result? A voice clone that sounds just like me!

Now, you might be wondering, “Is he pulling our leg? Is this for real?” Well, to prove it, the audio you’re hearing in this blog post was created using this very technology. That’s right, you’re not actually hearing me but my digital voice twin! Amazing, isn’t it?

But here’s the kicker – if you’re as excited about this as I am and want to clone your own voice, you can do it too. And here’s how: through our unique affiliate link. That’s right, we’ve teamed up with Eleven Labs to bring you this fantastic opportunity. By using our link, you can jump straight into creating your voice clone.

A little heads-up, though. If you decide to sign up for their paid subscription, we may earn a small commission. But hey, that’s just a small part of supporting our journey to bring you the coolest, most cutting-edge tech insights.

So, why would you want to clone your voice? Well, the applications are endless. From personalizing your digital assistant to creating your podcast episodes, even when you’re too busy to record – the sky’s the limit! And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to do it. The process is user-friendly and quite intuitive.

In conclusion, stepping into the world of AI voice cloning has been an absolute thrill. It’s not just about the fun or the novelty; it’s about embracing a technology that’s reshaping how we interact with our digital world. Voice cloning might sound like a small step, but believe me, it’s a giant leap in the realm of personal digital expression.

So, what are you waiting for? Click on our affiliate link and start your voice cloning adventure. Who knows, maybe your AI clone will be writing the next blog post for you!

Until next time, this is the Gadget Man, signing off – or should I say, my digital twin is signing off!

For more information, click or scan the QR Code below or simply visit https://revw.uk/elevenlabs

https://revw.uk/elevenlabs
https://revw.uk/elevenlabs

livetrains.uk – A Gadget Man Experiment

LiveTrains UK – My ‘Go-To’ for Real-Time Train Info

Ever found yourself rushing to catch a train, only to find out it’s been delayed? We’ve all been there. That’s exactly why I started LiveTrains UK. It’s a nifty little site that gives you live train times right at your fingertips. Think of it as your personal train time checker – but cooler.

Real-Time Updates Because Who Likes Waiting?

We’re all about making your train travel easier. With LiveTrains UK, you get the latest scoop on train times without the headache. Whether you’re commuting, heading out for a day trip, or just curious, we’ve got you covered. No more guessing games; just quick, accurate info to help plan your journey better.

Easy Peasy to Use

We’ve made sure our site is super easy to use. No complicated stuff – just hop on, find your train times, and you’re good to go. We’re big on keeping things straightforward because, let’s face it, who has the time for complicated?

Still Tweaking Things – Yep, We’re in Beta!

Just a heads-up, LiveTrains UK is still in beta. That means we’re still testing and tweaking things. The idea came from my own itch to find up-to-date train times without the hassle. So, while we’re smoothing out the edges, we’d love for you to give it a whirl and see how it makes your train travels a bit less of a bother.

Visit Live Trains UK at https://livetrains.uk

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

Having recently adopted the Wavo Boom Arm into my streaming and podcasting setup, it’s hard to envision a time without it. This piece of equipment truly stands as a testament to Joby’s commitment to professional-grade products for the modern content creator.

Right off the bat, the arm is seamlessly tailored for the Wavo Pod Microphone. It boasts a steady, high-quality construction, ensuring that your microphone is held securely and remains in prime position throughout your recording or streaming sessions. With its impressive payload of up to 1kg, you have the flexibility to integrate various microphones, accommodating even the weightier ones with ease.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

Aesthetically, the Wavo Boom Arm is a masterpiece. The multicoloured stripes ingeniously hide cables, lending to a clean and contemporary appearance that’s often missing in other boom arms. The matte black shell not only offers a chic look but also provides an added safety feature, shielding users from accidental pinches. Furthermore, the option to personalise the arm with red or black solid rubber covers allows users to maintain a tidy desk space, particularly useful for those like myself who can’t stand a cluttered workspace.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

The universal attachment is yet another feather in its cap. It effortlessly supports both microphones and cameras, making it perfect for versatile content creation needs. Whether you’re streaming a podcast, or setting up for a top-down tech review, this boom arm is up to the task.

The innovative clamp design is a genuine game-changer. With rubber protections on both top and bottom, there’s no fretting over potential desk damage. It affixes firmly to any surface, ensuring the arm remains steady throughout its range of motion. Plus, the addition of a desk grommet option offers flexibility in setup, catering to individual workspace preferences.

Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators
Joby Wavo Boom Arm Review: The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

But the pièce de résistance has to be the unique JOBY design integrating both a cup and headphones holder. It’s this sort of practical thinking that genuinely showcases the brand’s understanding of its user base. No more scrambling around for headphones or risking liquid mishaps; everything is neatly organised, optimising the entire content creation experience.

Priced at £86.95, it might appear as a hefty investment to some. But given its impeccable design, multifunctionality, and the sheer quality of material used – primarily aluminium – it’s worth every penny.

Really impressed with the build quality and ease of use. This is a really good addition to my setup and I love using it for sound recording.

The Relics of Technology: A Stroll Down Memory Lane

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, it’s easy to forget the gadgets and gizmos that once dominated our lives. Today, we’ll take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the tech tools that have faded into the annals of history.

  1. Floppy Disks and CD-ROMs:
    Once, the clunky floppy disks and shimmering CD-ROMs were our only recourse to data storage and transfer. They have now gracefully bowed out, making way for sleek USB drives, capacious external hard drives, and the omnipresent cloud storage that promises accessibility from every corner of the globe.
  2. VHS Tapes and VCRs:
    The ritual of rewinding VHS tapes and the magic of VCRs bringing images to life on screen are chapters from a bygone era. They’ve been overshadowed by the crisp clarity of DVDs, Blu-rays, and the instant gratification delivered by streaming services.
  3. Fax Machines:
    The whirring and buzzing of fax machines, once music to the ears of office-goers have been replaced by the silent, instantaneous delivery of emails and other digital communication channels.
  4. BlackBerry:
    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.

    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
    Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
  5. The Pager:
    The humble pager, a precursor to the mobile revolution, once clipped to belts, has quietly retreated to the shadows as smartphones dominate the communication landscape with various features unimaginable back in the day.
  6. Film Cameras:
    The instant gratification of digital photography has replaced the thrill of loading film and the patience of development. Though a niche of enthusiasts still cherishes the craft of film photography, digital cameras and smartphones have become our lenses to the world.
  7. CRT Monitors:
    The bulky CRT monitors that once occupied desks were replaced by sleek LCD and LED monitors, marking a significant leap in aesthetics and technology.
  8. Cassette Tapes and Players:
    The tactile joy of flipping a cassette tape is a forgotten pleasure. Digital audio and streaming services have ensnared the auditory senses with a promise of endless playlists.
  9. Typewriters:
    The rhythmic clacking of typewriter keys is a sound from a bygone era, replaced by the soft tapping on modern-day keyboards as computers and word-processing software took over.
  10. Rotary Phones:
    The nostalgic spin of the rotary dial has been replaced by the swift taps on touch-tone and mobile phones, making communication faster and smoother.

Each piece of outdated technology carries with it stories and memories that shaped the era they belonged to. As we embrace the new, it’s a sweet reminiscence to look back at the tech relics that paved the path for today’s digital wonderland.

You can also listen in to my chat with Steve Ladner on BBC Radio Kent by clicking on the play button at the top of the post

Truth in Ratings: How to Protect Your Business and Yourself from Fake Reviews

Fake reviews can significantly impact both businesses and consumers, distorting the perception of products, services, and brands. They can artificially inflate or deflate ratings and can mislead potential buyers. Here are some strategies that both businesses and consumers can use to protect themselves:

Truth in Ratings: How to Protect Your Business and Yourself from Fake Reviews
Truth in Ratings: How to Protect Your Business and Yourself from Fake Reviews

For Businesses:

1. Monitor Reviews Actively: Regularly monitor and analyse reviews for patterns that may indicate fraudulent activity, such as a sudden influx of positive or negative reviews.

2. Utilise Review Verification Services: There are third-party services designed to verify the authenticity of reviews. They can help in filtering out suspicious or inauthentic feedback.

3. Encourage Genuine Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave a review by providing easy-to-follow instructions or even offering incentives. Make sure to follow ethical guidelines in doing so.

4. Implement a Review Policy: Have a clear and transparent review policy that defines what is allowed and not allowed. Make it accessible to customers.

5. Report Fake Reviews: Major review sites often have mechanisms for reporting suspicious reviews. Be sure to make use of these systems when you notice suspicious activity.

6. Engage with Reviews: By actively responding to reviews, both positive and negative, you can often build trust with customers. If you suspect a review is fake, respond professionally, indicating your concern and how you plan to investigate.

7. Educate Your Customers: Let your customers know the importance of genuine reviews and how they can make sure their reviews are counted.

Truth in Ratings: How to Protect Your Business and Yourself from Fake Reviews
Truth in Ratings: How to Protect Your Business and Yourself from Fake Reviews

For Consumers:

1. Check Multiple Sources: Don’t rely on reviews from just one website. Look at different platforms to get a more comprehensive view.

2. Look for Verified Purchasers: Some platforms label reviews from verified purchasers. These are typically more trustworthy.

3. Analyze Review Patterns: If you see a large number of reviews with the same wording or all posted around the same time, they might be fake.

4. Be Skeptical of Extremes: Extremely positive or negative reviews might be fake, especially if they lack specific details about the product or service.

5. Use Review Analysis Tools: Some online tools can analyse reviews and provide a summary or even flag potentially fake reviews.

6. Read Both Positive and Negative Reviews: By reading a mix of positive and negative reviews, you can often get a more balanced view of a product or service.

7. Trust Your Instinct: If something doesn’t feel right, or if a review seems too good to be true, it probably is.

8. Consider Professional Reviews: If possible, look for professional, in-depth reviews from reputable sources.

9. Engage with the Community: Ask questions on forums or social media to get real opinions from real users.

By being proactive and aware, both businesses and consumers can significantly reduce the impact of fake reviews. It requires a combination of vigilance, utilizing available tools and services, and fostering a culture of authenticity and transparency.