I’m always excited to bring you news of cutting-edge tech that blends innovation with affordability – and today is no exception. If you’re into 3D printing or thinking about diving into the world of filament fabrication, this announcement is for you!
Say hello to the Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo – a machine that promises to be Vibrant, Versatile, and Visionary. Developed with creators in mind, this latest printer from Anycubic is loaded with features that make it perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Introducing the Kobra 3 V2 Combo – A Vibrant New Chapter in 3D Printing! Super Early Bird Pricing Announced
Super Early Bird Price – Just £359!
From 15th to 18th May, you can grab the Kobra 3 V2 Combo at a stunning £110 off the retail price – just £359 instead of £469! But you’ll have to be quick: this Super Early Bird offer is available for a limited time only.
Early adopters aren’t just saving money – they’re unlocking exclusive perks worth over £100, including:
50% OFF all filament packs (PLA Special, PLA Metal, High Speed, and even random bundles)
£10–£30 Gift Cards (500 winners up for grabs!)
FREE 8-Colour Hub – When purchasing the 8-colour kit version (exclusive to the Kobra 3 V2 Combo)
Mystery Box – Who doesn’t love a surprise?
Free Access to Premium Quality Models to kickstart your print library
This makes it one of the best value 3D printer launches we’ve seen all year.
Colourful, Creative and Capable
The Kobra 3 V2 Combo is designed for multicolour printing straight out of the box. With its smart automatic material station and easy-to-use touchscreen interface, it’s a dream machine whether you’re printing functional parts or jaw-dropping figurines.
Combine that with high-speed capabilities and robust build quality, and you’ve got a machine that’s ready to keep up with your creative demands.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re upgrading your current printer or taking your first step into the world of multicolour 3D printing, the Kobra 3 V2 Combo is a no-brainer – especially at the early bird price.
Once upon a time, a phone was just a phone. The exact when of that once-upon-a-time depends on how far back you travel between now and Alexander Graham Bell. For some, it’s when phones were chunks of Bakelite with rotary dials, while for others the cut-off point is when phones started to offer more than calls, text, and playing “snake”. Today, that’s what we’d call a basic phone. And it’s making a comeback.
Rethinking How Smart We Want Our Phones To Be
Dumbing down
Pretty much every mobile phone available today falls into one of three categories: basic, feature and smart.
A basic phone is designed primarily for calling and texting, with very limited or no internet access and minimal extra functions. It usually has a small screen, physical keypad, and lacks apps or an advanced interface.
A feature phone falls between a basic and a smartphone; it often includes some multimedia functions like a basic camera, FM radio, Bluetooth, and sometimes limited internet access. While it may support some apps, it runs on a lightweight operating system and isn’t built for the kind of multitasking or app ecosystems that smartphones offer.
A smartphone can be your office, your library, your entertainment centre and your link to family and friends. It runs on advanced operating systems like Android or iOS and supports full internet access, multitasking, high-resolution touchscreens, downloadable apps from app stores, GPS, and a wide range of sensors and connectivity options. It essentially functions like a handheld computer and is central to modern digital life.
And a pushback against that modern digital life is partly behind a boost in basic sales.
While “dumb” phones represent a small slice of the overall handset market (around 2%), it is a trend mobile phone manufacturers have taken notice of and are responding to; minimalist or feature-free versions of many phones are being developed and promoted to younger generations, especially Gen Z adults (those born between 1997 and 2012).
Interestingly, older members of Gen Z were on the cusp of the transition from basic phones to smartphones, giving them a unique perspective on both types of devices.
And nostalgia does play a role.
The re-release of classic models like the Nokia 3210 in 2024 has tapped into a sense of longing for the past. These updated versions maintain iconic designs while incorporating modern features such as 4G connectivity and USB-C charging, appealing to both those who remember the originals and younger users drawn to retro aesthetics.
Health and safety
Many seek to reduce their screen time and disconnect from the constant smartphone barrage of notifications and social media updates. There is a growing body of research linking increased levels of anxiety, stress and depression to excessive smartphone use; many feel a “hypervigilance” is forced on them because of constant connectivity.
Social media apps have been associated with increased anxiety and depression – social comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), and cyberbullying all play their part in pushing people away from a digital lifestyle. And parents are increasingly opting for basic phones for their children to limit exposure to social media and online content.
In addition to mental health concerns, mobile phone users are becoming increasing alarmed by potential security risks associated with smartphones. A 2022 Deloitte survey revealed that nearly 60% of respondents worry about their devices being vulnerable to security breaches and organisations tracking them through their devices. This distrust is further fuelled by the lack of transparency regarding data collection practices and the increasing complexity of mobile operating systems.
Impact on Mobile Entertainment Services
The return to basic phones inevitably limits access to mobile entertainment services a trade-off that sits at the heart of this trend.
Without app stores or constant connectivity, users are stepping away from on-demand video, social media feeds, and mobile gaming. For many, this is a deliberate move a way to disconnect from digital noise and regain focus.
But beyond the digital detox narrative, this shift could also reignite interest in the early formats of mobile entertainment. Just as the return to physical media (like vinyl records or Polaroid cameras) has found a nostalgic and passionate following, the revival of feature phones could mark the rise of a “vintage mobile entertainment” movement.
In this light, basic phone users may come to represent a new niche of digital consumers almost like the purists of mobile culture. People who value minimalism, intentional usage, and a stripped-back experience. This creates an interesting opportunity for content creators and service providers to revisit simpler formats: downloadable tones, static graphics, or even text-based games entertainment designed for accessibility, light data usage, and offline consumption.
Could this be the next micro-market in mobile a new segment of business shaped by nostalgia, simplicity, and purposeful tech use?
Impact on advertisers
The resurgence of basic phones could significantly reshape how advertisers operate, particularly by shifting the expectations and mechanics of engagement. The main challenge is the loss of data-rich environments that smartphones provide. With fewer users engaging via apps or the web, there’s reduced access to behavioural tracking, precise geolocation, and interactive ad formats like video or programmatic banners. This could erode the effectiveness of digital advertising campaigns. However, it also revives older formats such as SMS marketing. Brands might turn to simpler, more direct communication, which can feel more personal or urgent, especially in markets where basic phone usage is growing rapidly. These campaigns could see higher engagement due to their lower saturation and novelty in a world now dominated by digital noise.
Advertisers will need to rethink not only their platforms but their assumptions about user attention, availability, and intent. Those who adapt to offer meaningful engagement in low-tech contexts—rather than trying to recreate the smartphone experience—stand the best chance of staying relevant.
Summary
The resurgence of basic phones represents a significant trend in the mobile phone market, driven by a complex interplay of factors. This movement highlights a growing awareness of the need for a more balanced and intentional relationship with technology. As consumers seek greater control over their digital lives, basic phones offer a viable alternative, promoting mental well-being, privacy, and a more focused lifestyle.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nicholas Rossman is a Programme Director at The Mobile Ecosystem Forum (MEF), a global trade body established in 2000 and headquartered in the UK with members across the world. As the voice of the mobile ecosystem, it focuses on cross-industry best practices, anti-fraud and monetisation. The Forum, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025, provides its members with global and cross-sector platforms for networking, collaboration and advancing industry solutions.
If you ever dreamed of flying through the trees of Endor like an Imperial Scout Trooper, that dream just took a huge leap toward reality.
On May 1st, 2025, Volonaut officially unveiled their jaw-dropping personal flight machine: the Airbike. Described as a cross between a superbike and a starfighter, the Airbike is a jet-propelled, single-seat hoverbike that looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a sci-fi film—specifically, Star Wars.
Here’s the video below!!
This groundbreaking vehicle is the brainchild of Tomasz Patan, the visionary engineer behind the Jetson ONE. The Airbike, however, ditches propellers in favour of compact jet engines, creating a safer, sleeker, and incredibly futuristic flying experience. It’s built using carbon fibre and 3D-printed parts, making it exceptionally light—seven times lighter than a conventional motorcycle. With speeds topping 200 km/h, it’s no surprise the internet has lit up with excitement.
But Volonaut didn’t stop at just launching a revolutionary vehicle. They’ve timed their big reveal to coincide with the biggest unofficial sci-fi holiday of them all: Star Wars Day.
Over the past few days, Volonaut has been teasing a special video drop scheduled for Sunday, May 4th—Star Wars Day—with a tantalising image of a rider dressed in full Imperial Scout Trooper gear standing next to the Airbike. The promise? A recreation of the unforgettable speeder bike chase from Return of the Jedi, shot through dense woodland, but this time with a real flying machine.
It’s not every day that technology catches up with our childhood imagination, but this might just be one of those times. As a long-time lover of gadgets, sci-fi, and anything that pushes boundaries, I’ll be watching this premiere with popcorn in hand and a big grin on my face.
Video Credit: YouTube / Volonaut
Star Wars Scout Trooper crounching next to the Volonaut Airbike ready for Star Wars Day on May the Forth – Image Credit: LinkedIn / Volonaut
We’ve all been there — that moment when the password box blinks impatiently, waiting for your brain to produce something secure and memorable. But what if I told you that billions of us are still relying on “123456” or “password” to guard our digital front doors?
Researchers at Cybernews have just released a fascinating and somewhat alarming analysis of 19,030,305,929 leaked passwords, and the findings tell a revealing story about human behaviour, pop culture obsessions, and our often lacklustre approach to security.
Only 6% of Passwords Are Unique – Let That Sink In
Out of 19 billion passwords, only 1.1 billion were unique. That means 94% of people are using the same passwords as someone else — and in the world of hacking, that’s music to a cybercriminal’s ears.
The most common passwords? You’ve guessed them:
“password” – used 56 million times
“admin” – 53 million times
“123456” – 338 million times
“1234” – found in nearly 4% of all passwords (that’s 727 million accounts!)
It’s 2025 and we’re still living in a world where “qwerty” and “abc123” are considered acceptable safeguards.
What We Love Shows Up in Our Passwords
The team at Cybernews created themed wordlists to understand what people use in their passwords. The results are both amusing and a little worrying.
Pop Culture Reigns Supreme
Characters like:
Mario (9.6M)
Batman (3.9M)
Joker (3.1M)
Thor (6.2M)
Elsa (2.9M)
Yes, even a magical ice queen made it onto the hacker’s dictionary.
Our Favourite Animals?
Lion (9.8M)
Fox (7.8M)
These majestic creatures might be noble, but they’re not secure.
Love, Tea, and Swear Words
“Love” appears in 87 million passwords.
Tea – our national treasure – is in 36 million!
And surprisingly (or not), words like “ass” (165M), “fuck” (16M), and “shit” (6.5M) are extremely common.
Seems like when people get frustrated with password rules, they get… expressive.
The Human Factor: Names, Cities, and Seasons
We seem to really love personal and familiar things:
Ana is the most-used name (178.8M times).
Rome is the top city (13M).
Summer (3.8M) leads the seasons, while May (28M) and April (5.2M) dominate the months.
Monday is weirdly the most popular weekday (800,000).
And professions like boss, cook, and hunter show up in millions of passwords. Is that confidence or wishful thinking?
Big Brands in Passwords: Not a Great Idea
Believe it or not, some people think referencing tech giants will protect them:
Google – 25.9M passwords
Facebook – 18.7M
Kia – 12.7M (your guess is as good as mine)
Why This Matters (and What You Should Do About It)
With only 6% of passwords being unique, dictionary attacks and credential stuffing become a walk in the park for bad actors. If your password is on one of these lists, your account could be next.
Top Tips for Better Passwords:
Use a Password Manager – Tools like Bitwarden, 1Password or KeePass make strong passwords easy.
Avoid Dictionary Words – Even “FrostyTheSnowman1983” isn’t safe if enough people use it.
Go Long and Complex – At least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols.
Don’t Reuse Passwords – Ever.
Turn On 2FA – Always enable two-factor authentication where possible.
The Bottom Line
Your password is often the only thing standing between your private data and a very bad day. The Cybernews report doesn’t just expose poor habits — it’s a stark reminder that humans are the weakest link in cybersecurity.
So, before you set your next password to “GadgetMan2025”, take a moment. You’re worth a better lock on your digital door.
Matt Porter – The Gadget Man
Have you checked your passwords recently? Would you like me to review any password manager tools for you next?
At The Gadget Man, I’m always on the lookout for tech that genuinely pushes boundaries — and Edifier’s latest release has me seriously impressed. Say hello to the Edifier NeoBuds Planar – a new generation of premium True Wireless earbuds, packed with tech that promises (and delivers!) an incredible listening experience.
Edifier NeoBuds Planar – Planar Magnetic Drivers Bring True Wireless to a Whole New Level!
Why the NeoBuds Planar?
Unmatched Sound with Planar Magnetic Drivers
Most true wireless earbuds use dynamic drivers, but Edifier has taken a different path, packing planar magnetic drivers into the NeoBuds Planar. The result? Absolutely crisp, immersive audio. Whether you’re blasting your favourite playlist, tuning into a podcast, or taking an important call, these earbuds deliver an unbelievably rich and detailed soundstage.
Next-Level Noise Cancelling
Noise cancelling is no longer just a luxury – it’s essential. The NeoBuds Planar feature advanced active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, cutting out distractions whether you’re commuting, working in a noisy office, or just zoning out at home. Simply put, they create a cocoon of beautiful sound around you.
Premium-Quality Wireless Audio
Powered by Qualcomm® QCC5181 Bluetooth® audio SoCs and supporting the full Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite, the NeoBuds Planar are a true audiophile’s dream. They handle a variety of HD codecs including aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ Lossless, Snapdragon Sound™, LDAC, and LHDC – all of which combine to deliver an extraordinary audio experience across any device.
And yes, they come with Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification — meaning they meet the highest standards for wireless audio quality. This isn’t just marketing hype; the difference is tangible.
Edifier NeoBuds Planar – Planar Magnetic Drivers Bring True Wireless to a Whole New Level!
All-Day Power and Crystal-Clear Calls
When it comes to convenience, Edifier hasn’t cut corners. Six high-sensitivity microphones combined with Qualcomm aptX™ Voice technology mean your voice comes through clearly during calls or when speaking to your favourite virtual assistant. And with up to 30 hours of total playtime (including the charging case), they’ll easily keep pace with your busy day.
Smarts to Match the Sound
The EDIFIER ConneX app unlocks a host of smart features, including automatic music pause/play when you take them out or put them back in, and full customisation to tweak your audio to perfection.
Final Thoughts
The Edifier NeoBuds Planar aren’t just another pair of wireless earbuds – they’re a serious step forward in audio technology, offering planar driver performance in a true wireless form factor. If you’re serious about sound — and you want freedom from wires without sacrificing quality — these could well be your next favourite gadget.
It’s official – Disney’s most lovable alien is back! With Lilo & Stitch returning to cinemas on May 23rd, fans old and new are buzzing with excitement. And to mark the occasion, the clever folks at EXG Pro are unleashing a brand-new wave of officially licensed Lilo & Stitch tech accessories that bring all of Stitch’s mischief, madness, and heart right to your desk.
EXG Pro Celebrates Lilo & Stitch’s Return to the Big Screen with a Chaos-Filled Collection of Tech Accessories
From earbuds hugged by Stitch’s tiny blue paws to phone holders that could double as miniature sculptures, this range is as functional as it is collectible. Whether you’re working from home or gaming into the night, Stitch is here to make sure your setup looks cool and stays tidy.
Meet the Line-Up: Functional Meets FUNctional
Stitch Buds Pro – £49.99
Stitch Buds Pro – £49.99
Bluetooth 5.3 earbuds in a custom Stitch case? Yes, please. The Stitch Buds Pro don’t just look adorable – they sound great too. Cradled in Stitch’s arms, this is equal parts pop culture tribute and high-performance audio kit. Available now at EXGPro.com.
Stitch Cable Guys: The Ultimate Desk Companions – £29.99 Each
Hula Stitch
Dressed in a grass skirt and ready to party, Hula Stitch is the perfect tropical tech stand. Whether you need to hold your phone, gaming controller or remote, he’s got your back with island vibes to spare.
Hula Stitch
Smiley Stitch
All grins and good energy, this joyful version of Stitch is a desk cheerleader that just so happens to be brilliant at holding your devices.
Smiley Stitch
Classic Stitch
This is Experiment 626 in his most iconic form – attitude, ears and all. He’s got the stability of a serious tech stand with the flair of a fan-favourite character.
Classic Stitch
Stitch Holdems: Pocket-Sized Personality – £19.99 Each
Loved Up Stitch
Puckered up and packed with love, Loved Up Stitch is a sweet spot for your earbuds or phone. A romantic little helper for anyone who’s soft on Stitch.
Loved Up Stitch
Badness Level Stitch
Wearing chaos like a badge of honour, Badness Level Stitch keeps things fun and functional. The ultimate choice for fans who love their Stitch with a little extra bite.
Badness Level Stitch
Sunset Stitch
Golden hour in a gadget stand. Sunset Stitch glows with tropical vibes and calm energy – ideal for mellowing out your workspace.
Sunset Stitch
Underpants Hero Stitch
Because why wouldn’t Stitch wear underpants over his fur? This hero-themed holder adds a dollop of humour and a whole lot of charm to your setup.
Underpants Hero Stitch
Gadget Man’s Take
This collection is pure joy in accessory form. It’s the kind of licensed merch that gets it right – quirky, useful, and collectible. Whether you’re a Disney devotee, a pop culture junkie, or just someone who wants their earbuds stored by an alien in a grass skirt, EXG Pro’s Lilo & Stitch range is a total win.
As the film makes its big-screen return, there’s never been a better time to invite Stitch into your home – not on the sofa, but on your desk, cradling your tech with chaos and love.
Available now at ExgPro.com – grab yours before Stitch eats them.
Batch cooking just levelled up. If you’re like me and appreciate a neat, efficient kitchen with gadgets that actually make life easier, then the latest innovation from Morphy Richards will be right up your street.
Introducing the brand-new Cordless Food Vacuum Sealer – a game-changing kitchen companion that pairs perfectly with your slow cooker, soup maker, or blender. Whether you’re prepping weekday meals, diving into sous vide cooking, or just trying to reduce waste, this clever little device is the secret to longer-lasting freshness and smarter storage.
Cordless Freedom Meets Powerful Preservation
Forget tangled cables and clunky setups. The Morphy Richards Cordless Food Vacuum Sealer (RRP £79.99) lets you seal anywhere in the kitchen without hunting for a plug socket. It uses vacuum technology to remove air from bags and canisters, locking in freshness and keeping out freezer burn, bacteria, and odours.
Whether you’re freezing homemade soup or sealing marinated chicken for sous vide, the vacuum sealer is packed with features that make it ideal for home chefs who want quality and convenience.
Five Intelligent Sealing Programs:
Dry food – Ideal for grains, nuts and cupboard staples
Moist food – Keeps marinated meats and sauces sealed tight
Pulse mode – Precision control for delicate items
Seal only – Great for custom bag sizes
Canister mode – Vacuum seal larger or awkwardly shaped items
The integrated bag roll storage and cutter means you’ll always get a perfect fit – just unroll, cut, seal, and go.
To complement the vacuum sealer, Morphy Richards has also released a range of vacuum seal bags and rolls (RRP £11.99–£19.99). Choose from:
Pre-cut bags (x50 in small or large sizes) – great for grab-and-go sealing
Bag rolls – trim to your perfect size for zero waste and maximum efficiency
All bags are BPA-free, so you can store everything from leftovers to luxury cuts without worry.
Complete the Setup – Batch Cooking Heroes from Morphy Richards
Clarity Soup Maker – RRP £89.99
Ideal for healthy, hearty meals, the Clarity Soup Maker offers a crystal-clear Tritan body so you can see exactly what’s cooking. With a 1.6L capacity, LED countdown timer, and an automatic cleaning function, this is a no-fuss tool for soup lovers and meal preppers alike.
Total Control Jug Blender – RRP £54.99
This 400W blender handles smoothies, soups, sauces and even ice like a pro. With a 1.5L glass jug and five speed settings (plus pulse), you’ve got precise control over texture and consistency.
10-in-1 Multifunction Food Cooker – RRP £129.99
A kitchen workhorse with a 6.5L capacity and 10 presets including fry, steam, sauté, roast, and both high/low slow cook modes. Comes with a hinged glass lid, steam rack, rice spoon and measuring cup – this cooker is made for busy families and food prep fanatics.
10-in-1 Multifunction Food Cooker – RRP £129.99
I’m a sucker for smart kitchen tech that actually works, and this new collection from Morphy Richards ticks all the right boxes. The Cordless Food Vacuum Sealer is sleek, powerful, and endlessly practical – especially if you’re into meal planning, food preservation or just hate wasting food. Match it up with their soup makers and food cookers and you’ve got yourself a full batch cooking arsenal.
If you’re a parent, you’ll know the daily struggle: soggy sandwiches, leaky bottles, and lunchboxes that barely survive a term. Enter b.box – a smart, kid-focused brand founded by two Australian mums with one mission in mind: to make parenting that little bit easier.
Now available in over 55 countries, b.box is winning over families with their practical, well-designed essentials that combine functionality, independence and fun. And if you’re looking for a better way to keep your child hydrated and well-fed throughout the school day, the b.box Tritan drink bottle and b.box lunchbox are absolute game changers.
The b.box Tritan Drink Bottle – Built for Busy Hands and Busy Days
The b.box Tritan Drink Bottle – Built for Busy Hands and Busy Days – Image courtesy of b.box.
Let’s talk about the b.box Tritan drink bottle (£19.99 from Amazon). First up, it doesn’t just look cool with its triangular design – that shape actually makes it easier for little hands to grip. Whether it’s being hauled around the playground or slotted into a schoolbag, it’s lightweight, durable, and most importantly: leakproof when closed. That means no more puddles in the bottom of the bag!
Key features:
Easy push-button lid and carry handle
Soft silicone straw for easy sipping
Protective base bumper absorbs drops and knocks
Made from ultra-tough Tritan™
Top rack dishwasher safe
It’s the kind of bottle you’ll only need to buy once – unless of course, you want one in every colour!
The b.box Lunchbox – Fresh, Flexible and Fuss-Free
The b.box Lunchbox – Fresh, Flexible and Fuss-Free
Image courtesy of b.box
Say goodbye to squashed sandwiches and hello to a fresh-packed lunch that actually survives the school day. The b.box lunchbox (£19.99 from Amazon) is an absolute revelation – designed with compartments that make sense for real food, not just dry crackers and grapes.
What sets it apart?
Customisable layout with sliding dividers
Room for a whole sandwich, bagel or wrap
Comes with a gel ice pack to keep food fresh
Whole fruit compartment with a flexible silicone lid
Leakproof design for yoghurts and even watermelon
Top rack dishwasher safe
It’s lunch prep made simple – and snack time made joyful.
Both the bottle and the lunchbox are designed with one thing in mind: making life easier for parents and more independent for kids. They’re tough enough to handle a tumble, smart enough to keep food fresh, and stylish enough that your kids will actually want to use them.
At £19.99 each, they’re not the cheapest options on the shelf – but when you factor in the clever design, durability and no-spill peace of mind, b.box products are well worth the investment.
Final Thoughts from The Gadget Man
I love a product that quietly solves a problem without overcomplicating things. The b.box Tritan bottle and lunchbox don’t try to reinvent the wheel – they just make it roll a lot smoother. Whether you’re kitting out your child for school, day trips or picnics in the park, these are two items I can confidently recommend.
Celebrate Star Wars Day in galactic style with these top 10 must-have gifts for fans of the franchise. From the striking Original Stormtrooper 3D Helmet Decanter Set to the futuristic Bluetooth Sound Frame, and iconic character stands like Boba Fett, Ahsoka, and Grogu, these picks combine function, fandom, and design. Whether you’re updating your home bar, desk setup, or kitchen essentials, this curated selection is a stellar way to say “May the 4th be with you.”
Original Stormtrooper 3D Helmet Decanter Set £79.99 from ThumbsUp.com
Bring the Star Wars galaxy home with the Original Stormtrooper 3D Helmet Decanter Set. Officially licensed and crafted by Andrew Ainsworth, this collector’s set includes a 750ml helmet-shaped glass decanter, two coordinating glasses, and a cool black tray with soft grips. A eye-catching centrepiece for any home bar, it blends function and fandom, making it the ideal gift for collectors, film fans, or anyone looking to show-off their drinks cabinet with a touch of sci-fi style.
EXG Pro Star Wars: Boba Fett Cable Guys Controller Holder and Phone Stand £29.99 from ExgPro.com
Clad in signature Mandalorian armour and ready for his next mission, Boba Fett joins the Cable Guys range as a striking display and functional accessory. Standing 8.5″ tall, this legendary bounty hunter is equipped to hold your smartphone, gaming controller, or remote with ease. Whether on your desk or shelf, Boba brings attitude and practicality to your setup. Compatible with controllers and mobile phones, this is the ultimate accessory for any fan of the galaxy’s most feared mercenary.
Original Stormtrooper Sound Frame – Bluetooth Picture Frame Speaker £49.99 from ThumbsUp.com
Experience sound and style with the Original Stormtrooper Sound Frame, a Bluetooth speaker and wall-mounted artwork in one. Officially licensed and designed by Andrew Ainsworth, creator of the original 1976 helmet, it features a bold DJ-themed Stormtrooper design. With crisp audio from a 5W speaker, universal Bluetooth connectivity, and a clutter-free setup. Easy to install and ideal for any room, it’s the ultimate gift for Star Wars fans.
Original Stormtrooper 3D Beer Glass – 1 Pint £24.99 from ThumbsUp.com
Bring the galaxy to your bar collection with the Original Stormtrooper Beer Glass., this pint glass blends authentic design with sci-fi heritage. A standout piece for any home bar, it celebrates the iconic style of the Galactic Empire while offering practical use. Ideal for collectors and Star Wars fans. it’s a unique tribute to cinematic history and classic beer enjoyment.
EXG Pro Star Wars: Ahsoka Cable Guys R.E.S.T Collectible Figure Device Holder £29.99 from ExgPro.com
Ahsoka Tano, warrior, survivor, and symbol of resistance, joins the Cable Guys range in striking form. Known as Fulcrum and featured in The Mandalorian, she stands ready to support your tech essentials, whether it’s a gaming controller, smartphone, or remote. With her dual lightsabers and calm determination, Ahsoka brings balance to any setup. Compatible with most devices, she’s a powerful addition to any fan’s collection, blending functionality with the spirit of a true galactic hero.
Original Stormtrooper Terrarium £39.99 from ThumbsUp.com
Add a touch of galactic greenery to your home with the Original Stormtrooper Terrarium. Created by the man who made the Original Stormtrooper Helmet. This stylish planter merges sci-fi design with natural charm. Durable, green and a mini planet all on it’s own, it’s perfect for creating your own little world. Ideal for fans and collectors, it brings the power of the Empire and a hint of nature into any home.
EXG Pro Star Wars: Darth Vader Cable Guys Controller Holder and Phone Stand £29.99 from ExgPro.com
Serve the Dark Side in style with the Darth Vader Cable Guy. Officially licensed by Lucasfilm, this striking 8.5″ figure captures the iconic villain in full black armour, ready to hold your smartphone, gaming controller, or remote. Compatible with most devices, including PS5 DualSense, Xbox Series S/X, and all iPhones, it’s both functional and collectible. A must-have for Star Wars fans, this powerful display piece brings order, and convenience, to any gaming setup or desk.
Original Stormtrooper Pizza Cutting Board £11.99 from ThumbsUp.com
Add a real topping and galactic twist to your kitchen with the Original Stormtrooper Pizza Cutting Board. Featuring an engraved Stormtrooper helmet design, this wooden board is as practical as it is iconic. Grooved for precision slicing, it ensures perfectly cut pizza slices every time. Durable, easy to clean, and versatile enough for all kinds of food prep, it’s a standout piece for any home. A fun and functional gift for fans and foodies alike.
EXG Pro Star Wars: Grogu ‘Seeing Stone Pose’ Cable Guys R.E.S.T Collectable Figure Device Holder £29.99 from ExgPro.com
Everyone loves Grogu, now you can add him to your setup with this officially licensed Cable Guy stand. Styled from The Mandalorian series, Grogu stands 8.5″ tall atop a Jedi-script plinth in a peaceful seeing-stone pose. Compatible with most smartphones and gaming controllers. including PS5 DualSense, Xbox Series S/X, and all iPhones. It features the patented rotating R.E.S.T. shelf system for versatile use.
EXG Pro Star Wars: Imperial Stormtrooper Cable Guys R.E.S.T Collectable Figure Device Holder £29.99 from ExgPro.com
This loyal soldier of the Empire is ready to secure your smartphone, gaming controller, or remote with unwavering precision. Compatible with a wide range of devices, including PS5 DualSense, Xbox Series S/X, and all iPhones, it’s both a display-worthy collectible and a practical desktop companion for any Star Wars fan.
In the latest episode of The Gadget Man, I joined Lorna Bailey on BBC Radio CWR to explore a topic that’s close to all our smartphones — apps. From checking our health and managing our money, to securing our homes and snapping hundreds of photos we never quite get around to backing up, apps have become the digital wallpaper of our lives.
But here’s the big question: Have we become too reliant on them? And are there risks lurking in our seemingly innocent app folders?
During this episode, we chat candidly about the app overload many of us experience. Whether it’s a dozen different parking apps or a folder full of CCTV apps just for one house (guilty as charged), we’ve all felt the weight of digital clutter and the anxiety of deleting an app in case we “might need it someday.”
We also talk about the very real risks of having so much of our data connected to apps and the internet — and how tech companies benefit from our every tap and swipe. While some of this data helps deliver useful services, like live traffic info, it also opens doors to targeted ads, invasions of privacy, and even scams.
Tips for Staying Safe in an App-Heavy World:
Only download apps from reputable sources like Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon’s App Store.
Avoid sideloading apps from unknown third-party websites — that’s where trouble can start.
Keep apps up to date — security patches are often part of these updates.
Use antivirus apps to scan for threats, especially on Android devices.
Be mindful in public when making payments with your phone — contactless tech can be abused.
Back up your photos and data regularly to avoid heartbreak if your device is lost or damaged.
There’s also a moment of digital self-reflection: Are we hoarding apps the same way we hoard random kitchen gadgets — “just in case”? You’re not alone. I’ve got folders of unused apps, too.
And while we’re talking about clutter, let’s not forget the thousands of photos we store and forget — until it’s too late. If there’s one takeaway from this episode, it’s this: Back. Up. Your. Photos. Whether it’s to iCloud, Google Photos, or any other cloud service, it could save your most precious memories.
Listen to the full episode to hear all the laughs, insights, and a few home truths about our app obsessions — and maybe get inspired to finally sort out your own digital drawers!
Want to chat more about this topic? Drop a comment below or ping me on social media @gadgetmanblog — I’d love to hear about your app habits, fears, and favourites!
