Latest news with #smartphoneapp
National Post
16-07-2025
- National Post
The best beard trimmers, tried and approved
Article content I can vividly imagine how the OneBlade 360 was invented. Picture a boardroom meeting with people in suits. The presenter is standing, palms sweaty. 'Manual razor companies make money from the blades they sell, not from the razor itself. Why can't we do this with an electric one?' The board erupts in applause. Article content Despite my initial skepticism, I was pleasantly surprised by the OneBlade 360. It's more akin to an electric shaver than a beard trimmer, but it includes an adjustable comb for beard trimming. The shave without a guard was closer than expected. My skin is too sensitive for shaving against the grain with a manual razor, but I can comfortably do it with the OneBlade 360. Touching my skin afterward, I can't tell the difference between this and a manual shave. Article content I also liked the accompanying smartphone app, which guides you through different beard styles and uses augmented reality to preview how styles such as chinstrap, horseshoe, stiletto or chevron might look. Article content Article content I tested the face and body kit, priced at $70. If you're only trimming your beard, the standard $50 OneBlade 360 kit is sufficient. Keep in mind that, like manual razors, you'll need to replace the blades every four months (at $20 each). The board didn't applaud for nothing. Article content Price: $70 Article content I debated including the Peanut in this guide. While there's still a case for corded trimmers in barbershops, battery-powered models are much more convenient at home. However, if you want gear that will last decades, the time-tested, corded Wahl Peanut is a solid choice. It's compact, powerful and durable. Article content My biggest issue is that it comes with only four guards. If you're looking for a funky beard, you should probably look elsewhere. Officially priced at $107, I usually see it selling for around $70. Article content Article content Length settings: 5 Shortest trim: 0,45 mm (3 mm with a guard) Ear and nose trimmer: No Body trimmer: No Guards: Fixed Article content Price: $107 Article content Where to buy: Amazon | Wahl Article content
Forbes
09-07-2025
- Forbes
OneOdio Focus A6 Wireless ANC Headphones With Spatial Audio Built In
There so much choice on the market if you are looking for wireless headphones with active noise ... More cancellation. The OneOdio Focus A6 are the latest headphones from the budget brand and offer plenty of features. It's a great time for anyone looking to buy a pair of noise-canceling wireless headphones because there are so many on the market and the quality is now so good it's hard to buy a bad pair. All buyers need to do is decide what kind of features they want and how much they'd like to spend. The Focus A6 headphones from OneOdio are a budget pair of wireless noise-canceling headphones with a circumaural or over-the-ear wearing style. Consumers can choose between two colorways: Midnight Black and Ivory Blush. New Smartphone App These new headphones are the first from the brand that enjoy the support of a dedicated smartphone app, which can be used for controlling the music and customizing settings. The app lets users personalize their listening experience by selecting custom modes and preset EQs. The app updates firmware and keeps tabs on the headphones' whereabouts. There are four ANC settings available with the Focus A6. Users can choose between regular noise cancellation, transparency, normal and wind-noise reduction modes. At the heart of the Focus A6 is a system of advanced hybrid ANC, which can reduce unwanted sound by up to -48dB. The new Focus A6 headphones from OneOdio include 3D Spatial Sound for a cinematic effect. The ANC system is powered by a dual-microphone system that pairs feedforward and feedback mics to intelligently block out unwanted ambient sounds. For making calls in noisy environments, there is an Environmental Noise Cancellation function that's powered by an AI-enhanced smart call algorithm for clear calls, even on windy days. The Focus A6 uses Bluetooth 6.0 and has an Isochronous Adaptation Layer, which is part of the latest Bluetooth standard and reduces latency and is particularly useful when watching movies or gaming. The Focus A6 support the high-quality LDAC Bluetooth audio codec and have received Hi-Res Audio Certification for high-quality digital audio. Multipoint Connectivity The use of Bluetooth 6 means these headphones also support Multipoint Connectivity so that two devices can be connected at the same time and switched between with ease. The wide sound field of these new headphones is produced by large 40mm dynamic drivers. The Focus A6 headphones from OneOdio are a budget pair of wireless headphones with a circumaural or ... More over-the-ear wearing style. The headphones have 40mm dynamic drivers and are shown here in Midnight Black finish. For those who like to listen to music all through the day, the Focus A6 have a built-in rechargeable battery that can provide non-stop audio for up to 75 hours. A quick 10-minute charge of the battery can deliver up to 10 hours of playback time. One other feature with the Focus A6 is the inclusion of 3D Spatial Audio. This feature is unlocked using the OneOdio smartphone app, enabling listeners to experience cinema sound and toggle immersive sound effects. With access to three professional-grade EQ presets and three customizable EQ profiles, users can tailor the audio to suit any genre or mood. The new OneOdio Focus A6 ANC wireless headphones are available now in a choice of Midnight Black and Ivory Blush colorways. The price of the headphones is $69.99 / £65.99 / €75,99. Forbes readers can get a15% discount by visiting the OneOdio website and quoting FORBES15. The offer is valid from July 7 to September 30. A 15% discount is available from Amazon by quoting U8ST8U3Q and is valid from July 12 to August 30.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Adobe Launches Firefly AI Image Generation App for iOS and Android
Adobe has released its first AI smartphone app, Firefly, for iOS and Android devices. The app will feature Adobe's own AI model along with models from partner firms such as OpenAI and Google, so users will have quite a few tools for generating images and videos. Adobe says the app lets subscribers generate unlimited basic images using Adobe's models, with extra charges for access to premium models and those from partners. Firefly also gets models from Ideogram, Luma AI, Pika, and Runway. You can access these through Firefly Boards, which is part of the Firefly web app. The subscription cost is the same as the web version and starts at $10 per month, as reported by Reuters. Adobe has not disclosed how much it pays partner model providers for use in the Firefly app. The company says its AI model is trained only on material it has a legal right to use, and it gives users protection against copyright claims. Ely Greenfield, Adobe's chief technology officer for digital media, says that the company's approach to commercial safety and transparency in AI training is an important point for many customers. "Even for many of our individual customers, that promise of the commercial safety and the story about how Firefly is trained continues to be a really important differentiator," Greenfield told Reuters.
Fox News
31-05-2025
- General
- Fox News
Keep your swimming pool clean with these pool vacuum cleaners
A swimming pool can be a fun and valuable addition to your home and property, but maintaining it and keeping its water clean is essential. Pool cleaners and vacuums play a pivotal role in achieving this by efficiently removing debris, algae and other harmful bacteria and contaminants that can compromise water quality. This proactive approach to pool maintenance ensures a safer swimming environment, clear blue water and extends the overall lifespan of the pool and its equipment. Many pool cleaners now cater to different water types, preferences and maintenance needs. Each cleaner offers unique features designed to optimize cleaning efficiency and user convenience, from manual options to sophisticated robotic systems. Here are 10 to consider before you take the first dip this summer. This Dolphin Nautilus robotic pool cleaner is equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to remotely schedule and control cleaning cycles via the smartphone app. Its dual scrubbing brushes go to work as it climbs up and down the pool walls, giving it the most thorough clean possible. The top-load filter cartridges are easy to access and clean, making maintenance straightforward. Its intelligent navigation system ensures comprehensive coverage, avoiding obstacles and optimizing cleaning paths. Don't forget to give your pool the best start possible at the beginning of the season by opening it with the proper chemicals. This kit makes it easy and eliminates any guesswork! If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. The Aiper Scuba S1 cordless robotic pool cleaner works for both in-ground and above-ground pools up to 1,600-square-feet. It features a 150-minute battery life and innovative navigation technology, allowing it to efficiently clean pool floors, walls and waterlines. Its cordless design eliminates the hassle of tangled cables, making it easier to use and store! If this one is outside your budget, check out the Seauto Crab instead. The Hayward Poolvergnuegen at Walmart is a suction-side pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools. Available in two-wheel and four-wheel models, it efficiently cleans pool floors and walls by connecting to the pool's existing filtration system. Its self-adjusting turbine vanes and adjustable roller skirts allow it to navigate various pool surfaces and obstacles and can even reach the deep end with ease. This Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 pressure-side pool cleaner operates by connecting to a dedicated pressure line, using water pressure to propel itself and collect debris into an attached filter bag. Its dual-jet system provides powerful vacuuming and sweeping action for pool floors and walls. Don't forget the replacement parts to have on hand in case you need them in a pinch! If you're looking for an affordable option for a pool robot, the Aiper Seagull 1000 is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed for pools up to 861-square-feet for under $200. With a 90-minute battery life, it cleans pool floors using dual suction vents and a rotating scrubbing brush. Its self-parking technology ensures easy retrieval after cleaning sessions. Chlorine pellets can also be helpful to keep on hand after you host large amounts of swimmers or a long rainstorm. Kind of like a dustbuster but for your pool, the handheld Water Tech Pool Blaster Max is a cordless, battery-operated pool vacuum that can deliver a quick and efficient cleaning. Its easy-grip handle makes cleaning steps and stairs easy, while its rechargeable battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime without the need for hoses or cords. The vacuum's high-flow pump and reusable filter bag effectively capture various types of debris. Erase hard-to-reach stains and debris with the brand's Grit Gitter tool. If you don't mind applying a little elbow grease, this Mainstays manual spa vac at Walmart is an affordable choice for small pools and spas. Its 360-degree flexible sides allow for easy maneuverability, enabling you to reach tight corners and clean various surfaces effectively. Another spa vacuum option on Amazon uses water pressure from the garden hose to blast away dirt and grime on pool surfaces. This Hayward Diaphragm disc pool suction cleaner at Home Depot connects directly to your pool's filtration system. Equipped with three intake ports, it quietly removes debris from various pool surfaces. It's a low-maintenance option because it only has one moving part. In this case, it can pay to shop around—the same vac is currently on sale on Amazon for nearly half the price. This Lienuis model robotic pool cleaner at Wayfair is specifically designed for above-ground pools up to 850-square-feet. It operates independently of your pool's filtration system, using its own built-in motor to navigate and clean the pool floor. Its compact and lightweight design allows for easy handling and storage. Don't forget the solar cover, which helps keep pool water clean and free of debris when not in use. For more deals, visit A great option for under $100, the XtremepowerUS automatic vacuum at Wayfair is a versatile pool sweeper that connects to your existing filtration system, acting as a mobile drain to channel water through efficiently. Designed to fit seamlessly into your current setup, it enhances the circulation and cleanliness of your pool water. Before vacuuming your pool, you'll always want to skim it to pick up any large leaves or surface debris.
Daily Mail
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
Is paying to park about to get easier? Universal smartphone app arrives - but most drivers prefer cash
Drivers will be able to use a new 'universal' smartphone app that is designed to make paying at different car parks easier than before. The Department for Transport has announced a new 'one-app-fits-all' smartphone platform has been developed - at no cost to the taxpayer - by members of the British Parking Association. This follows a series of government-backed trials to help motorists pay to park with ease and avoid QR-code scams that have been swindling drivers in recent years. Lilian Greenwood, minister for the future of roads, welcomed the development, saying the Government is 'on the side of drivers and dedicated to giving everyone simpler, more flexible parking'. However, for two in five motorists, it's not the method of parking payment they want to use. Two-fifths of drivers recently polled by the AA said paying with cash is still their preferred option - and older motorists in particular say they will avoid car parks that don't have provisions for coin payments. Drivers will be able to use a new 'universal' smartphone app that is designed to make paying at different car parks a whole lot easier than before. But most drivers would prefer to use cash... How drivers would prefer to pay to park (all respondents) Cash: 40% Contactless: 28% Pay via app: 14% Chip & Pin: 12% Pay by phone: 2% QR code: 1% Other: 1% Source: AA poll of 13,700 drivers in Feb 2025 The 'National Parking Platform' allows users to pay to leave their car at sites operated by the country's biggest providers. This includes RingGo, JustPark and PayByPhone, which each have their own dedicated apps, forcing drivers to download multiple applications to their phones and repeatedly uploading the same billing information. The move to a single app-based payment system will help drivers to avoid 'inconsistent parking rules, clunky user experiences and unnecessary barriers to something that should be simple', the DfT said. The platform will be developed and run by private parking companies, in partnership with councils, on a not-for-profit basis. The DfT promised that it will 'operate under clear terms to ensure transparency, sustainability, and public value', though caveated that the government will monitor the platform to ensure compliance. The application has already been rolled out to 10 local authorities and has proven successful, handling more than 500,000 transactions per month. The DfT is yet to confirm when it will provide nationwide coverage. Greenwood said: 'I'm delighted that this fantastic project is being taken on by the parking sector with no extra cost to taxpayers. 'This is public infrastructure done right: built by government, shaped with councils, and now delivered by the sector that knows it best, at a time when we're investing a record £1.6billion through our Plan for Change, to mend our pothole-ridden roads which damage cars, and £4.8billion to deliver new road infrastructure that will better connect people.' Most drivers still want to pay to park with coins While the National Parking Platform will streamline the payment process using a smartphone, just 14 per cent of drivers polled by the AA say apps are their preferred method. The majority of Britons (40 per cent) would prefer to use cash but face the reality that councils are rapidly phasing-out traditional coin payment machines. A number of authorities have already converted all of their car parks to cashless sites, and more local councils are looking into the option in an effort to slash administrative costs. The AA's recent survey of more than 13,700 drivers found a huge age divide in terms of ideal payment methods. Just one in 10 (12 per cent) of drivers aged 18 to 24 would pick coins and notes as their preferred choice. Some 37 per cent of young drivers would ideally choose contactless payment with a card or through mobile payment (e.g. Apple Pay), whereas 35 per cent would choose payment by app in a major swing towards technology. Contactless payments are the top choice among all drivers up to the age of 44, though thereafter it is cash that remains king. A majority 46 per cent of over 65s - those likely less well versed with smartphone applications - say they would rather pay to park with coins. Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: 'With the high street already under strain, it seems counterintuitive for car parks to refuse a customer willing to pay. 'Allowing parking to be paid by a multitude of options seems the best solution for both car parks and drivers, but those opting to pay by app should take note that doing so could be more expensive as administration costs are added to the rates.'
