Geekazine

Hive is the UK’s largest smart home provider, and they launched in the states last year. Their latest offering is the Hive View, which lets you keep on eye on all of the goings on in your home. This is not only a stylish indoor camera, but it also comes packed with some very cool features like HD live streaming and person detection. You can also set it to ignore your pets, making it all the more handy. It will live stream to your Hive app in 1080p HD, or playback videos from the last 24 hours if you need to review something.

About Hive View

The Hive View starts recording when it detects motion or sound, and sends a notification to your smartphone so you can check it out. Was it just a family member coming home unexpectedly or do you have an intruder? It has a handy magnetic arm that is also a charger. You can remove the cube camera and put it somewhere else should the need arise. This is great for keeping an eye on the kids in the other room. When you are done, just attach the cube to the arm again. You can have it away from the magnetic arm for as long as an home and a half at a time and it will record the area you want, just as long as it is in Wi-Fi range.

Combine the Hive View with Hive’s ecosystem of smart home products – thermostats, smart plug converters, and sensors that can tell lights to turn on/off – and your home is going to be a genius. We talk with Hive at CES 2018 to learn more about this product.

More information is at HiveHome.com

D-Link is showing off their latest wares at CES 2018 and has announced several new networking and connected home solutions, including a new router in partnership with McAfee that automatically protects connected devices on your home network. The D-Link AC2600 Wi-Fi Router is an all-in-one solution that includes D-Link’s high-performance dual-band 802.11ac router with MU-MIMO technology. This enhances network capacity and efficiency for users, while McAfee Secure Home Platform protects your devices connected to the network. On board is Intel’s Home Wi-Fi Chipset WAV500 Series, which will deliver amazing Wi-Fi connectivity to many devices at the same time, running a range of high-bandwidth applications. This router will protect you whether you are using it at home or for business and it will keep you safe.

The company also announced two new wireless indoor/outdoor camera kits for home surveillance. The LTE Full HD Indoor/Outdoor Camera (DCS-1820LH), and the Wire-Free Full HD Indoor/Outdoor Camera (DCS-2802KT) pack in some great new features like rechargeable batteries, IP65 rating, and the ability to record locally or to the cloud. They can be used anywhere in the home, even in places that don’t have Wi-Fi or electrical power, so they give you added flexibility and freedom. They also boast an impressive battery life of over 11 months.

Next up are two next generation Covr whole home Wi-Fi solutions: the 3-pack Dual-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (COVR-C1203) and the 2-pack Tri-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (COVR-2202). The Covr Wi-Fi systems are simple, intelligent solutions that feature a scalable mesh wireless network for ultra-fast speeds and seamless coverage of your home. Both models offer Smart Roaming and Smart Steering to guide devices to the best wireless band.

The Tri-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (COVR-2202) blankets your entire home with ultra-fast AC2200 Wi-Fi and offers tri-band connectivity, faster downloads and lag-free 4K streaming, and high-power amplifiers that will cover up to 6,000 sq. ft. with ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi. The Dual-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (COVR-C1203) stretches AC1200 wireless signal throughout your home with its 2×3 antenna configuration for maximum range and connectivity. It will deliver coverage up to 5,000 sq. ft. with three Covr points.

As you can see, D-Link has your whole home covered with some impressive new gear.

This year, CES may have had a blackout, but they couldn’t keep the monitor technology down. At LG, we got to see some of the best screens yet. From the “LG Cavern” – a room with curved monitors showing different scenes, making it look like you were walking through a cave, forrest, and more – to their flattest TV yet – the Signature OLED W8 TV.

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I talked with Matthew on this new technology, and got to see the TV’s and monitors myself. With a large viewing angle, 600 nits of light, and DCI-P3 technology, these monitors were crisp, and showed so much detail that I will start to notice from older monitor technology.

The 32UK950 monitor is also a Thunderbolt 3 connected device, so you can daisy chain multiple monitors for a bigger and better view. It’s hardware calibration ready, and also contains 5Wx2 speakers for your audio needs.

This monitor will be out in a couple months. Check out LG’s CES page on new monitors.

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Sometimes you come across a good idea and a young entrepreneur that is thinking outside the box. Step in Julius from Mitipi, and his roommate, Kevin.

What is Kevin?

Kevin is a theft deterrent. Most thieves don’t want to bother a home if they think someone is inside. Kevin allows you to simulate that with a simple device that sits on your table.

You control Kevin with your smartphone to simulate lights, a TV running, and more. Add in sounds like people talking in the kitchen, doors closing, footsteps, and more to the speaker making it sound like people are home.

This crowdfund will start soon. For more information, check out Mitipi.com

I guess we will have a magic mirror in our homes soon. The bathroom mirror is a central point during your day. It only makes sense that it should also become your personal assistant. Kohler is adding Alexa to the mirror so you can get your day started the right way.

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I talked with Kohler at CES Unveiled about this new smart mirror. The Kohler Konnect is a series of smart devices in the bathroom and kitchen. Use Alexa, or use your phone app to start the shower, turn on the lights, and even start the coffeemaker. All from the one place you start at during the day – your bathroom mirror.

The app also shows you stats so you are not wasting water. The app will be connected on the Kohler Cloud, which is powered by Microsoft Azure.

The Konnect Verdera Smart Mirror will start at $999 and will be available in March.

At my first CES, I had a small budget, but needed to try and get as much interview content as possible. As the years progressed, I worked on better cameras, microphones, lights, and more. Nine years later, I have the most powerful video system that I’ve ever taken with me. I can’t wait to start recording some of the events for you – this year going full 4k. Here is the gear I am using. You can find it all at Geekazine.com/ces18gear

Sony AX700 4K Camera

I have been going back and forth between Prosumer and DSLR cameras. While I was happy with last year’s videos, I needed something that could work with less effort than a DSLR. Therefore I went back to the Sony brand of video cameras.

The Handycam FDR-AX700 is the latest 4k video camera. It has a 1″ CMOS sensor, Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T” 12x optical zoom lens w/ 29mm angle, and a fast hybrid focus system to keep the subject in shot.

I have been using it during Build Day Live events as the primary camera. I love the fact it can do multiple face detection, but not show those silly squares up on the screen. And although it doesn’t have the Stabili-eye fearture my previous camera had, it does a great job with the digital stabilization.

The camera also works wireless, and I can go hands-free with the remote control that is included.

SanDisk Extreme Pro 512 GB SDXC Cards

The camera also allows for 2 cards. I chose the SanDisk Extreme Pro 512 GB SDXC UHS-I cards because these cards have never failed me. I can record around 35 hours without cleaning out the cards. Moving from one interview to the next will never be an issue.

Sony URXP03D 2-Channel Portable Receiver

A good wireless microphone is also important in getting the shot. The P03D has so many great features to it, including the ability to use up to 4 microphones at once. The main 2 wireless, and an input for a single mic, or chain to more microphones. It only records 2 tracks, but I can set the primary voice to the left channel, and all others to the right.

The URX-P03D can also charge batteries via the USB adapter. Better yet, the additional shoe mount for Sony cameras will not only bypass the batteries for power, but also send the audio signal right to the camera. Now I can use the mic option as an additional source (which you have to set up).

My hand-held Microphone is the Audio-Technica Omnidirectional Dynamic with long handle for getting close to those being interviewed.

Neewer CN-160 LED Lighting

I have been a big fan of these LED lights for years. You can get your subject lit up, and filter the light so it’s not so harsh. They work on many different types of batteries, including 6-AA in a pinch. Most important, I have found on a full charge these lights will continue on up to 90 minutes.

The Neewer CN-160 is lightweight, and tough.

One of my top ten videos that still gets watched several times a day, the throwdown of Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon is still the most popular of my videos. What’s more amazing is that people still ask “Which one should I get”? Lots of changes since I first did this review, so I thought it was time to update it and see what these services have to offer!

 

What Platforms Can Access Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime?

Before we go forward, let’s get this out of the way – All three services can be used on laptop, desktop, Roku, XBox One, PS4, Fire TV, and finally, Apple TV. You can get all three services on certain Smart TV systems, but keep in mind, this can change at any time depending on contractual agreements.

The Good and Bad of Netflix

Since 2014, Netflix service has not really changed too much, well, except for their prices. You can still watch movies, TV shows, and Netflix originals. Of course, this is a simple subscription service. Content will come and go, and the only thing you can do is watch what’s on the service.

There have been a lot more originals added to the lineup, from reboot shows like Fuller House, to new originals such as Stranger Things. Netflix also has beefed up original movies like “Bright”, Naked, iBoy, Pee Wee’s Big Holiday, XOXO, and more. They have also beefed up their comedian specials, and a series called “The Standups”, which highlight new comedians.

Netflix does have an offline option on your iOS or Android app. This is perfect for long flights where there is no in-flight entertainment.

Prices start at $7.99 a month for a simple SD video feed, and $10.99 for HD video. Since I have own a 4K TV, I look toward the premium, which is $13.99 a month, but I can watch up to 4 screens at a time.

If you have the T-Mobile service, basic Netflix is a perk for you. You can also use Netflix through your Dish TV DVR service – although you still have to pay for it.

Now back in 2014, I was stymied as to why Netflix didn’t have a “Buy it now” feature, or other ways to bring extra revenues to the service. I still think Netflix is missing on this boat, and need to find a way to bring people in for more. The reality is, if they lose a majority of studio labels, the only thing they can do is counter with powerful originals and buy up older movies.

The Good and Bad of Amazon Prime

Let’s look at Amazon’s offerings since 2014. They also let you subscribe to HBO and Showtime. You can also get Starz, Britbox – which is a range of TV shows from BBC and ITV in England (Including the first 25 seasons of Doctor Who), PBS, Sundance, and a lot more.

You have new original TV like Red Oaks, Mozart in the Jungle, Goliath, the Grand Tour, and Transparent. Original movies like the Big Sick, the Lost City of Z, Crown Heights, and more coming soon.

Amazon Prime also has 2-day shipping, Whole Foods discounts, unlimited video streaming, the ability to download to phone or tablet to watch offline, some music streaming, unlimited photo storage, Amazon Elements for new parents – a series of baby products that meet many standards.

Not done just yet. You also get Dash buttons, one e-book a month, free books and magazines, audio books, ad-free Twitch – the video gaming channel, and a ton of other stuff.

And there is still more. There have been rumors that Amazon is poising to compete with YouTube on original VLOGS and content like the Geekazine channel. It makes sense, since they have Fire TV and their popular Kindle tablets.

Add in the Echo line of hardware, you can control your content through simple voice commands.

Prime is charged yearly at $99 – or $8.25 a month. Be on the lookout for possible Prime discount subscription days where in years past you can get the service for $20 less.

I still use a desktop, so I need a mouse. I also use a laptop and sometimes could use a mouse over the trackpad. The Contour Unimouse is an Ergonomic mouse that I can use wired or wireless, so I can move between computers without issue.

About the Contour Unimouse WL

This is an ergonomic mouse that can adjust to your hand for more comfort. 6 programmable buttons allow for whatever you need – gaming, video editing, or something else. The 2.4 GHz wireless mouse has a battery life of 3 months (although I haven’t had it that long to test), but does recharge within 2 hours.

The Pros of the Unimouse WL

Not only is it comfortable, it adjusts quickly for your need. It’s got a smooth movement to it, and it works well with more than one computer. I use it wirelessly (with the dongle) on my laptop, while I plug into my desktop to use wired.

The Neutral of the Unimouse WL

The mouse has the Pixart PMW 3330 sensor – a mid-grade mouse sensor. While it does a great job, it might not work best if you need a mouse to give you more precise movement.

The DPI indicator will let you know speeds so you can adjust in the settings.

In The Video

I go into more detail about the Unimouse. Check it out!

Price and Purchase the Unimouse

The price ranges from $89 for a wired version, to $125 for a wired/wireless version. You can get the Contour Unimouse here.

What do you desire in a Smartphone? Better camera, more storage for apps, or simply a device that makes phone calls? Smartphones are getting more sophisticated and more expensive. You might just want a phone that can do the job, but not break the bank.

The Google Pixel 2 is a great Android upgrade at a more down to earth price. Right now, you can get either the Verizon version with payment plans, or pay full pricce for the unlocked phone for your carrier.

About the Pixel 2

This is the Pixel 2 XL, which means a slightly larger display, better resolution screen at 2880 x 1440, and 3520 mAh battery. The Pixel has a 1920×1080 screen, 2700 mAh battery, and is smaller.

Weight is a 1.19 ounce difference. Pixel 2 at 5.01, and 2XL at 6.2 oz.

Of course, there is also a $200 difference in price – $649 for the base Pixel 2, as opposed to $849 for the base Pixel 2 XL.

Both models have dual-front speakers – which work best when you watch video horizontally. Both models also have the same camera – 12 MP with 1.8 f-stop rear camera, and a 8 MP front face. They are IP67 water resistant, and come in 64 and 128 GB models.

Real World Use

I took this phone with me to California, and used it alongside my iPhone 8 Plus. As a phone, it functions as expected. I can make and recieve calls, send texts, and fill my friends boxes with as many emojis that I can think of.

Apps on the Google Play App store are no issue with this device. I was playing Clash of Clans, and Walking Dead within minutes.

On the back of the phone is the fingerprint reader. I am not a fan of this position, but it does work fine. You can also type in your PIN for access.

I am also not a fan of bevelled phones, although this one is a lot better than the Samsung S8 Edge. I do have to admit, it fits better in my hand over a larger device.

No Headphone Jack?

Missing from the device is a headphone jack. But in the grand scheme of devices, this feature will be gone anyway for Bluetooth, and WiFi audio. It also allows the device to be more water resistant, and the audio to be digital, rather than analog.

The Google Assistant is there for you as well. Not only can you say “OK Google” to call it up, there is a new feature where you squeeze the bottom of the phone to bring it into play.

Processor inside is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 at 2.35 GHz. This is a 64-bit CPU based on ARM Cortex technology. Graphics is the Adreno 540, and RAM is 4 GB LPDDR4x.

You also have the 1 Gigabit Class X16 LTE modem, which works on 802.11ad signals. Finally, the processor allows for 32MP photos using the Spectra 180 ISP. This helps in shutter lag, smooth zoom, and quick auto focus.

Coming Soon – Google Lens

Google Lens is another feature of the Pixel, but it’s not out yet. This is an augmented reality feature – point the camera at certian items – like a movie poster, or a food box, and it can tell you more about that item.

In all tests, I found this to be a very sufficiant phone. The battery drain/charge test went without issue – I even started a slow-test. This includes using a charger like this, which is conciderably slower than what you get in the box. The USB-C connector charged the device to 15% within about 20 minutes.

The one big difference in upgrading to Oreo was the camera software. It improved features dramatically. I can take video, slo motion, panoramas, and 360 shots without issue.

So if you’re looking for a good Android phone, the Pixel 2 and 2 XL won’t disappoint. Like I said, it’s available on Verizon networks right now, and could be a great holiday gift for that special someone.

Get the

On a recent trip to Sunnyvale, CA, we stayed at the Avatar Hotel – a themed hotel that screams geek. But was it geeky? Was it even a hotel?

Hotel vs. Motel – What’s the Difference?

According to the dictionary, a Motel (or Motor Hotel) is a place where the room doors face to the outside. A Hotel is where rooms are down a hallway. Now while the Avatar has doors going outside, the whole area is enclosed in a security gated area. While the security is better than a Motel, and the Avatar has more amenities, it still falls under that classification. But you make your own judgement.

What Makes the Avatar Hotel Geeky?

When you walk into the lobby, you are greeted with little wind-up toy robots. One even has a look of a certain orange-ish faced president. All the robots are in glass cases, and they are lining the fireplace, and comfy chairs.

But that is really where the geek stops. The rest is simply a place to shower, sleep, and maybe take a swim.

A Higher End Motel Hotel

While not satisfying my geeky factor, the Avatar is a decent place to stay. A simple bed – bathroom setup allows you to get rested for that meeting or fun day that you might have planned.

It is close to Levi Stadium, and Great America, for weekend plans. It also has a good workout facility, a large lounge with coffee always available, pool, and hot tub to soak your cares away.

Don’t Stay for the Food

Adjoining the Avatar is an iHop. In some cases, you will get a voucher for breakfast, but you may pass it up simply because you have to compete with the general public. Wait times can get pretty hectic, especially if there is a Football game that day.

Happy hour is also really not that happy. You go to the front desk to get a beer or wine. You may have to wait for that drink if others are checking into the hotel.

Overall Review

It’s a good place to stay, only misleading. I did not spend much time there, but I felt safe, and got a good night’s sleep, thanks to the privacy shades in the room. I also liked the dimmable alarm clock, since I enjoy no lights while I sleep.