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Of course EE's hyping wireless chargers on new iPhone day
EE all but confirming new iPhone features before Apple's had a chance to announce them is turning into a bit of a yearly tradition. This morning, the carrier announced it's now selling Belkin's Qi Wireless Charging Pad for £30 (this is the standard retail price, by the way). Also, EE says other chargers and accessories will, in the coming weeks, be joining the provider's Add to Plan scheme. This lets customers on two-year handset contracts buy accessories and spread the cost over several months by adding a few quid to their monthly bill. Rumor has long had it that wireless charging would make its debut on this year's iPhones, so EE's announcement is no coincidence.
Microsoft's Surface app shows accessory battery levels
Microsoft's Surface ecosystem now includes a lot of Bluetooth peripherals, including the Surface Keyboard, Surface Mouse, Surface Pen, Surface Dial, Surface Arc Mouse and others. Most of those are powered by rechargeable batteries, and so far, there's been no easy to way to track the power levels. Luckily, the latest version of the Surface App, dedicated software for Surface devices, now shows the "Battery level for Surface accessories" so you can tell whether you need to juice up soon or not.
Glittery iPhone cases recalled after reports of chemical burns
Smartphone cases are normally as harmless as can be, but that sadly isn't always true. MixBin has recalled 263,000 iPhone cases after 24 reports of skin irritation and chemical burns when the cases broke, leaking glitter and liquid everywhere. And these aren't obscure cases, either. They've been sold at retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom Rack, Tory Burch and Victoria's Secret as recently as June, so there's a real chance you picked one up.
Microsoft inadvertently hints at its own iPad keyboard cover
You might not have any inclination to buy a Surface Pro tablet if you're an iPad owner, but Microsoft may be happy to sell you the keyboard portion. WinFuture has noticed that Microsoft posted a battery document mentioning an unannounced iPad Touch Cover. The file reveals precious little about the peripheral, but its name harkens back to the Surface Touch Covers that Microsoft used to sell -- the emphasis here would be on thinness over the tactile feel of a Type Cover. The inclusion of a battery and the April timing of the document suggests that it uses Bluetooth and targets the entry-level iPad, although we're not ruling out a Smart Connector attachment for the iPad Pro crowd.
Logitech to snap up console headset-maker Astro for $85 million
Logitech has been releasing accessories for both hardcore and laid back gamers these past few years, but now it's gotten serious about conquering the space. The company is in the process of snapping up Astro Gaming and has agreed to pay $85 million in cold hard cash for the purchase by early August. Unlike Logitech, which focuses on making accessories for PC, Astro focuses on making headsets for gaming consoles. It's primarily known for professional-grade premium headphones that cost $250 or more designed for eSports players and the most dedicated enthusiasts. Logitech's products are typically cheaper than that, though Astro recently released a pair of $60 cans for PCs, consoles and mobile.
Microsoft's Modern Keyboard hides a fingerprint sensor
Microsoft has quietly unveiled the Modern Mouse and Modern Keyboard, its next generation of Windows 10 input devices that match the latest Surface models in design and finish. Much like Apple's keyboard, the new model has "Chiclet"-style keys and aluminum frame that's heavy and "virtually indestructible," Microsoft says. The most interesting feature is a hidden fingerprint sensor located between the Alt and Ctrl keys so it won't interfere with the typing experience.
HTC's Vive Tracker and Deluxe Audio Strap cost $100 each
HTC launched a pair of desirable accessories for its Vive VR headset at CES 2017 in Las Vegas last month, and now we know when they'll arrive and for how much. The Vive Tracker, a 3D tracking device that you can attach to your wrists or any objects you want to use in VR, will cost $100 (£100 in the UK) and arrive to developers only starting on March 27th. The Deluxe Audio Strap, which adds some much-needed comfort to the otherwise fabulous headset, will also cost $100 and £100 in the UK.
Razer's Power Bank keeps your laptop running
External battery packs are a dime a dozen, but you might want to pay attention to this one. Razer has unveiled the Power Bank, a 12,800mAh external battery designed primarily for laptops. It's clearly intended as a companion for Razer's own portables, and can extend the life of a Blade Stealth to as long as 15 hours. That's more than a little helpful if you're stuck traveling all day. However, its reliance on USB-C makes it compatible with any laptop that can charge using the newer connector. Yes, you could keep a MacBook running on this brick if you don't mind the style mismatch.
Microsoft unveils an ergonomic keyboard for Surface fans (updated)
Surface computers (plus the Surface Dial) aren't all that's new at Microsoft's fall event. The company has quietly unveiled various Surface accessories, headlined by a Surface Ergonomic Keyboard. The wireless input device is effectively a cross between the earlier Designer Bluetooth Desktop and an ergonomic keyboard -- you get a more comfortable typing feel with quiet, low-profile keys. There's even a double-cushioned Alcantara palm rest (the same material you saw in the Signature Type Cover) that promises to be gentler on your hands even as it spruces up your desk environment. A pair of AAA batteries will power it for a full year.
Olloclip's new lenses attach quickly to your iPhone 7
Now that there are new iPhones with revised cameras, many smartphone photographers are going to want new Olloclip lenses. Thankfully, they've arrived... and Olloclip didn't just tweak the connectors and call it a day. Its new Core, Active and Macro Pro lens sets not only have improved optics ("premium multi-element coated glass," Olloclip says), but an improved interchangeable lens system. Called Connect, it separates the frame on your phone from the lens housings. This lets them quickly attach to and align with your iPhone's camera, even if you have a screen protector. You should spend less time swapping lenses and more time shooting, in other words.
Of course EE's hyping wireless headphones on iPhone 7 day
EE's Add to Plan scheme lets anyone taking out a two-year smartphone contract walk away with accessories in exchange for a couple of extra quid tacked onto their bill each month. Launched last year, EE today announced a slight change to the T&Cs. Instead of the cost being spread over 18 months and customers paying a premium for the convenience, they'll now square it away in 11 and pay out no more than the retail price. A wider product range will soon be offered, too, including wearables from Fitbit (from £8 per month), smartwatches and Samsung's Gear VR headset (also £8 per month).
Logitech's new mouse works with three computers at once
If you've ever used more than one computer at once, you know that juggling extra mice can be kind of annoying. Logitech thinks it doesn't have to be: the company has just announced a new mouse designed specifically for folks who use more than one computer at a time. Okay, maybe that's a small segment of the population -- but for the right person, the M720 Triathlon could be a godsend.
Accessory giant Incipio buys headphone maker Skullcandy
You probably don't see Incipio as more than the company who made your phone case or external battery pack. However, it's quietly becoming something of an accessory powerhouse: it owns brands like Braven and Incase. And now, it's getting even bigger. Incipio is paying $177 million to acquire Skullcandy, best known for its ostentatious (if not usually top-rated) headphones. The move not only gives it a dedicated headphone brand, but dips its toes into the waters of gaming gear thanks to Skullcandy's Astro Gaming badge.
PS VR Aim Controller promises 1:1 precision for virtual shooters
The PlayStation VR headset might not be the only new PS4 accessory you're grabbing this fall, as Sony unveiled this add-on for use with the game Farpoint. The PS VR Aim Controller picks up where the PlayStation Move shooting attachment and Sharp Shooter left off a few years ago, promising direct 1:1 tracking -- wherever you point the controller, your in-game gun points the same way. Farpoint is a PS VR exclusive and developer Impulse Gear is already claiming it enables "things in Farpoint that just are not possible in a standard FPS game." We'll hopefully have a chance to judge that on the E3 show floor this week, but first you can check out a trailer below.
LG G5's VR headset, 360 camera and other accessories hit the US
When LG announced its modular G5 phone last month, it also revealed a line of "Friends" companion devices to go along with it (See what it did there?). Included in the lineup are the 360 VR headset, 360 Cam, the Harman Kardon-powered Tone Platinum audio headset and the Cam Plus camera grip. While the phone itself is already available in the US, these gadgets that the company intends for you to use with the handset were not until now.
Otterbox's new case lets you use accessories without removing it
Ah yes, phone cases. A necessary purchase if you're accident prone or tend to drop your handset on the regular. Unfortunately, adding that accessory usually makes for a headaches whenever you try to use another mobile add-on like a thermal camera or lens clip. Typically, you would have to remove your protective case before you could use any of those other gadgets. Well, Otterbox is looking to rid you of that frustration with the new Universe system and it's swappable "accessory modules."
All Razer peripherals and accessories are half off Thursday
Fresh off its win in both Best of CES: PC and People's Choice categories for the forthcoming Stealth, Razer announced on Wednesday that it is holding a CES 2016 Fan Appreciation Event. The event, which runs for 24 hours, will see both peripherals and accessories at the RazerStore discounted by 50 percent. It begins at 6pm Pacific (9pm Eastern) on Thursday January 14th in the US before going live in Europe and Asia on Friday, but there is one slight catch. Customers will need a Razer ID to access the deals and will only get one item at the discounted price. Head over to Razer Insider for the full set of rules, regulations and restrictions.
Wacom's new stylus gives Windows 2-in-1s Surface-like input
Chances are that if you've picked up a stylus to use with your slate or hyrbid device, Wacom was responsible for the tech. At CES, the company announced its Bamboo Smart stylus for Windows hybrid gadgets. If you prefer a device that offers the comforts of a full laptop keyboard and the perks of a tablet, this new Wacom accessory will handle the pen-like input. What's more, it gives you a similar feel to that of Microsoft's Surface line for $40, rather than having to splurge for a whole new machine. The Bamboo Smart set to go on sale next month.
Logitech's iPad Pro keyboard case is relatively affordable
Apple's iPad Pro is pricey even before you add in the $169 official keyboard case, but Logitech may have a way to make the whole package a little more palatable. It's now shipping its promised Create Keyboard Case for the gigantic tablet, and the add-on will sell for a slightly more frugal $150. It only works at two angles, but you'll get perks like backlit keys, automatic pairing (thanks to the Smart Connector) and a raft of iOS shortcuts. And if you don't want to turn your iPad into a makeshift laptop, there's an $80 Create Protective case that ditches the keyboard in return for a more flexible stand. Either shell is available in black, blue or red, so you're not stuck with somber colors on your giant slate.
Microsoft has a docking station for your Surface Pro tablet
Microsoft isn't just unveiling a phone dock today -- it has a dock for your computers, too. The tech giant's new docking station gives the Surface Pro 3, Pro 4 and Surface Book the kind of connectivity you'd expect from a desktop. There are two 4K-capable DisplayPort outputs, four USB 3.0 ports and an Ethernet jack for your wired internet link. Microsoft's Surface Dock is available for pre-order now (with an expected release date of October 26th) at $200, which should be inexpensive enough that you can forget about buying a second PC. Get all the news from today's Microsoft event right here.