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Amazon India allegedly copied products and promoted its own versions in searches
The company used knockoff goods to bolster its product lines, according to Reuters.
Amazon will reportedly release its own TVs in the US this year
Amazon is planning to launch its own TVs in the US as soon as October, according to Insider.
Bag maker Peak Design calls out Amazon for its copycat ways
Amazon is well-known for its copycat ways, but it's not so often that another company calls it out on it, much less in a way that's funny.
Amazon allegedly used sellers' data to make competing products
Amazon has been accused of using third-party sellers' proprietary data to build rival products.
Wirecutter's best deals: Save $99 on a 55-inch TCL 5 Series 4K TV
This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. Read Wirecutter's continuously updated list of deals here.
The best USB microphone
By Melanie Pinola and Kevin Purdy This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commission. Read the full guide to USB microphones. The built-in microphones on most computers don't do your voice justice—they're likely to pick up too much room tone, add too much fuzz, and miss out on the warm tones of being in the same room as someone. Whether you're on a conference call or recording a podcast, a standalone mic connected over USB will help you sound your best. After testing more than 25 different USB microphones over the past six years with the help of audio professionals, we've found that the Blue Yeti is still the best microphone for most people. The Yeti has been our pick since 2013 and has come out on top during every retest of available microphones. In our latest blind test with two Wirecutter staffers and three professional audio engineers, all five experts ranked Yeti recordings at or near the top of the samples they listened to because it produced clear and rich recordings and preserved our speakers' natural vocal warmth. This is a microphone that both amateurs and professionals turn to for their voice or music work and one that will last for years. If you're looking for a portable mic or one that doesn't hog your desk space, the Shure MV5 is a better option than the Yeti. When using the voice preset, all our experts ranked the audio samples in their top three, with one audio engineer even rating it best. The mic (when unscrewed from its stand) is about the size and shape of a stress ball or pool table eight ball; you'll hardly notice it on your desk more than you would a big paperweight. It can also plug directly into an iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Although it doesn't have the additional sound pickup patterns that the Yeti does, the MV5 is a fine single-voice microphone. The small size makes it much easier to pack in a bag than the Yeti—but that also means you'll have to figure out how to prop it up to match your speaking height. The AmazonBasics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is as no-frills as you can get while delivering surprisingly good audio quality. Basically, you plug it in and start talking, because other than a mute button, there's nothing else to fiddle with. Despite its simplicity and low price, four out of five of our audio experts ranked this in their top three mics, with two of them even choosing it as best (one preferred it for female voices while another chose it for male voices). It doesn't feel as durable as the Yeti and isn't as compact as the Shure MV5, but it's a good compromise if all you want to do is sound better and clearer than how your computer's mic makes you sound.
Cheap, great HDMI cables
By Geoffrey Morrison This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commission. Read the full guide to cheap, great HDMI cables. If I needed an HDMI cable, I'd get the 3-foot AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable. This cable (also available in lengths up to 25 feet) will handle the 18 Gbps (gigabits per second) of data required of Ultra HD 4K video with HDR. It also has a lifetime warranty and free shipping if you're a Prime member. You might be able to find even cheaper HDMI cables, but none have its warranty and easy return policy. The AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable is a no-frills HDMI cable, but with HDMI, frills aren't necessary. The cable is sturdily built and works with any video signal of today (and probably ones into the near future). Both the 3- and 15-foot lengths passed all our tests, including HDR tests. It has a 4.6/5 rating on Amazon from over 15,000 reviews. They sell for about $2 per foot or less, if you have Amazon Prime (free shipping). If you don't have Prime, Amazon lowered the price of their free shipping to orders above $35. Or, if you just don't want to go with Amazon, Monoprice cables work the same and are very close in price. The Monoprice Certified Premium High Speed HDMI Cables work just as well as the AmazonBasics cables but are slightly more expensive when you include shipping. Either way, the prices are very close. Monoprice also has a far greater variety of lengths and thicknesses across a huge number of different series. So if you need a short, skinny cable or very long lengths to make your installation work, Monoprice likely has an inexpensive option that will do the job. For reasons we'll explain, there is no need to spend more on a basic HDMI cable.
The best USB-C cables and adapters
By Sarah Witman This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commission. Read the full guide to USB-C cables and adapters. If you have a device with a USB-C port—like a MacBook or Android phone, or 2018 iPad Pro—you're going to need some cables. Unfortunately, when it comes to USB-C, even cables that look identical can perform very differently. Your MacBook's charging cable, for example, has the exact same connectors at each end as a top-speed Thunderbolt 3 cable, but it's different internally; it transfers data at a snail's pace, and it can't send a video signal. To make sure you get the right cable for your needs, we've tested 36 cables and 16 adapters to find the best ones for charging, data transfer, video, and more.
Amazon’s gadgets don’t have to be pretty so long as they’re cheap
We've reached peak consumerism. At Amazon's event this week, it announced a whopping 70 new features and devices, including three new speakers, a revamped FireTV, an in-car dongle, an updated smart display and ... a microwave. The company is squeezing its Alexa assistant into every appliance imaginable, and doesn't care how the devices look, so long as you want to buy them. And at prices much lower than the competition, Amazon's products are especially compelling for those looking for decent, affordable solutions to short-term problems. You'll probably buy these things for your dorm or rental apartment, then try to sell them on Craigslist when you're ready for a permanent upgrade.
Amazon's Alexa-powered microwave is pretty unnecessary
One of the most surprising announcements from today's Amazon event was a microwave oven, of all things. It's part of the AmazonBasics line of products, and you can use it for reheating food, making popcorn or, you know, using it for whatever a normal microwave would do. Except there's one special thing about it -- it works with Alexa. And while that might sound like a cool thing at first, I can't help but think it's really quite unnecessary.
The best USB-C hubs and docks
By Nick Guy This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commission. Read the full USB-C hubs and docks guide here. After spending 20 hours testing 22 USB-C hubs and five USB-C docks, we think Vava's VA-UC006 USB-C Hub is the best option for connecting older peripherals and external storage devices to a new laptop or MacBook. It has an ideal range of ports that all transfer data at full speed, it's sturdily built, it's small and light enough to throw in a bag, and it's reasonably priced. With three USB-A ports plus HDMI (with 4K support), Ethernet, SD, microSD, and power passthrough, the Vava VA-UC006 offers the connectors most people need most of the time. It's powerful enough to leave at your desk full-time as a docking station but small enough to slip in your laptop bag and use on the go. The only downside is that the Ethernet port hinges open, a design that saves space but is more likely to break than a standard Ethernet port. For about half the price of the Vava, Dodocool's 6-in-1 Multifunction USB-C Hub offers performance similar to that of our top pick as well as an extra USB-A port, but it lacks SD and microSD card readers and an Ethernet port. We think the Vava's more versatile port selection, smaller size, and better build quality are worth paying for, but the Dodocool is a good option if you need something less expensive. If you just need more USB 3.0 ports for flash drives, keyboards, mice, and other low-power accessories, Aukey's USB C to 4-Port USB 3.1 Gen 1 Hub (CB-C64) is the best option we tested, and the least expensive. It's a straightforward plastic adapter with four full-speed USB 3.0 ports. But its lack of passthrough power makes it a poor choice if your computer has only one or two USB-C ports, as the MacBook does. If you need only an Ethernet connection, we like the Cable Matters USB Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter. It delivers full Gigabit speed, it comes from a reputable company, and it's inexpensive. It did get warm when we used it, which is to be expected with USB-C Ethernet adapters, but it reached the same temperature as a more expensive model we tested. Docks are larger and usually equipped with more ports than hubs, and they can provide power on their own, making them a better fit if you're looking for something to set on your desk permanently. Among the five USB-C docks we tested, Dell's D6000 Universal Dock is the best, with four USB-A ports, a USB-C port, HDMI and two DisplayPort video ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5 mm audio connector. It worked equally well with a PC and a Mac in our testing. It also delivers 65 watts—the most charging power of any dock we measured—and it's the least expensive dock option (though it's still more than twice as expensive as the Vava hub).
AmazonBasics power banks recalled over fire hazard concerns
AmazonBasics is great choice for everything from HDMI cables to coathangers and a whole lot more. Apparently "whole lot more" also extends to unintentional fire sources. The shopping juggernaut has recalled a half-dozen power banks sold between December 2014 and July 2017, according to The Verge, over worry that the units would overheat, melt and set themselves ablaze.
The best camera bags
By Erin Lodi, Mike Perlman, and Eric Adams This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter, reviews for the real world. When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. Read the full article here. If you're working with only a single camera and a lens, a good camera strap is all you need. But as soon as you start bringing multiple lenses and a tripod, you'll want a proper camera bag—preferably one that also looks nice enough to use every day. After spending the past two years testing more than 30 camera bags, we've found a number of great bags that cover a wide range of styles and carrying needs. For many photographers, the best choices are the 20-liter Peak Design Everyday Backpack or the 15-inch Everyday Messenger.
The best monitor arms
By Anna Perling This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology. When readers choose to buy The Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. Read the full article here. After researching more than 60 monitor arms and testing 10 over the past two years, we found that the AmazonBasics Single Monitor Display Mounting Arm is the best for most people who want to save space on their desks. It accommodates a wide range of positions and angles to improve workstation ergonomics, and it's adjustable, easy to set up, and unobtrusive. It's also sturdy enough to support heavier monitors.
The best VR headsets and accessories for dorms
We'll be the first to admit that a virtual-reality session isn't terribly conducive to bonding with new friends in the dorm. But, hey, a few of us here at Engadget are introverts, so you don't need to explain to us the value of strapping on a headset and momentarily blocking out the stress of classes and meeting new people. Included in our back-to-school guide are many of the usual suspects, like the Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR and Daydream View. We also recommend the optional Rift and Gear VR controllers, as well as games like Rock Band VR and Farpoint. Enjoy your escape from the real world, but remember to take a social break from time to time.
The best USB battery packs
By Mark Smirniotis This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology. Read the full article here. We brought in almost 50 pounds of batteries and tested them in a specialist lab in Vancouver, British Columbia, to find the best USB battery pack for any situation. If you need a pocketable pack to get through an evening out, we recommend the TravelCard Charger because our previous top pocketable pick, the AmazonBasics Portable Power Bank with Micro USB Cable 2,000 mAh, is inconsistently available. If you need a unit to leave in your bag to keep your device going for a busy day of meetings, pick up the EasyAcc 6000mAh Ultra Slim Power Bank. If you need to charge your phone repeatedly, grab the larger AmazonBasics Portable Power Bank 16,100 mAh, and if you require a pack that can power a bagful of devices for a full day, buy the RAVPower 26800 mAh Xtreme Portable Charger.
The best portable USB battery pack for daily use
This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a list of the best technology to buy. Read the full article below at TheWirecutter.com. Smartphone batteries don't always last through a busy day, but a pocket-size USB battery pack can give your handset enough of a boost to survive the evening. After 40 hours of research and 65 hours of testing, the one we like the most is Anker's 2nd Gen Astro 6400. It fits in any pocket or purse, and it charges phones and small tablets about as fast as any pocket-friendly pack out there. At 6,400 mAh, it has a larger capacity than most, too.
AmazonBasics bluetooth keyboard is highly portable for low price
I am a big advocate of the iPad as a portable computer which can satisfy most of the needs of most computer users most of the time. Combine the iPad with a keyboard, and it becomes even easier to use. The only downside has been the cost. The Apple Wireless Keyboard sells for $69, and is pretty expensive for most people. However, before now, I didn't know of a less expensive alternative that I would recommend to people. The AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard for Apple iPad, iPhone changed that. It is a low-profile keyboard with solid key action. It is almost half the price (currently US$37.30, but I've seen it as low as $29.99), slightly narrower, and feels lighter (it uses two AAA batteries compared to the Apple keyboard's two AA batteries). It does not feel as "solid" as the Apple Keyboard. The top row of function keys have several which are labeled for different features: Spotlight search, play/pause, forward/reverse, volume up/down/mute. One even serves as a "keyboard" button to use to toggle the on-screen keyboard, and there's a Delete key for those who aren't satisfied with Backspace. On the back, there is an on/off switch and a button to initiate pairing with new devices. Speaking of devices, while the item description lists the iPad and iPhone, it will also work with the iPod touch. In fact, it should work with any Bluetooth-enabled device. The iOS-specific elements are (as far as I can tell), just the aforementioned labels on the function keys. The only (potential) drawback is that the keyboard layout is slightly smaller and there are a few layout changes. Apple's Wireless Keyboard is the same configuration and size as a MacBook, which makes it easier to go back and forth between typing on a Mac and an iPad. Obviously this won't be an issue for everyone. You don't need a keyboard for an iPad, but if you decide that you want one, the AmazonBasics Bluetooh Keyboard is light, thin and easy to slip into a bag. The power switch keeps if from activating in your bag, but most importantly, it feels good while typing. All of that for about half of what you'd pay for Apple's Bluetooth keyboard.
AmazonBasics: Bezos and Co. starts private-label consumer electronics line
You had to see this coming. Or not. While Amazon has certainly shown an ability to do well in the consumer electronics space (ahem, Kindle anyone?), we never exactly envisioned the mammoth e-tailer to spark up its own private-label line of consumer electronics. Designed to go mano-a-mano with the likes of Monoprice and other cut-rate accessories providers, AmazonBasics will -- at least initially -- offer consumers AV cables, blank DVD media and other inexpensive doodads for not much cheddar. Everything the outfit sells through this initiative will ship in frustration-free packaging, and Bezos has already committed to expanding the line "in the coming months." As expected, these products will be eligible for free (albeit slow) shipping if you break the $25-per-order mark, and while Americans can begin ordering today, it'll be a tick before these wares trickle out to international portals. So, industry -- are you scared yet?Read - AmazonBasicsRead - Amazon's press release
