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iLuv Selfy iPhone 5/5s case sports a built-in camera remote
Accessory manufacturer iLuv has just done something impressive in the world of iPhone cases -- they've created a new line called Selfy that revolves around an iPhone 5/5s case (US$49.99 also available for iPad and iPad mini) with a slide-out wireless remote built into it for taking the perfect selfies. In this review, I'll let you know how Selfy works, and also tell you about the line of accessories designed to work with the case. At the end, you've got a chance to win an iLuv Selfy of your very own. Specifications Dimensions: .57 inch thick x 2.38 inch wide x 5.06 inch tall Weight: 2.1 ounces (59.5 grams) Materials: Thermoplastic polyurethane exterior, polycarbonate interior Available colors: Black, Pink Design Highlights The Selfy ecosystem revolves around the case, which has a Bluetooth wireless remote built into the back of it. Slide that remote out of the slot on the back of the case, pair it with your iPhone, and then use it with any photo app on the iPhone that can use the volume buttons as a shutter release. Turn on your iPhone and press the button once to establish the pairing again, and a small red LED flashes every few seconds to let you know that you're ready to use your hands-free camera remote. The remote is large enough to hold comfortably in your hand, and you're certainly not going to lose it. It's held securely in the slot on the back of the phone. The remote has a watch-type battery in it, so eventually you'll need to replace it. Fortunately, that's rather simple to do. The Selfy case is a bit thick, about the same as a Mophie Juice Pack Helium battery case. However, the back is curved from side to side, making it very comfortable in the hand. The bottom ports are uncovered, as is the mute switch. Wake/Sleep and volume toggle buttons are covered. Now, about that Selfy ecosystem. These cases are just starting to ship this month and not all accessories may be available, but the idea is that you'll be able to trade out the remote for a mini tripod, a car mount, a handlebar mount, a helmet mount or vented helmet strap, or a connector for a GoPro camera. These accessory mounts are expected to have a price tag between $19.99 and $24.99 each. Functionality Highlights Setting up the Selfy the first time is a piece of cake -- you just remove the remote from the case, pull a plastic tab to expose the battery to the interior contacts, and then press on the remote button for about four seconds. The red LED begins flashing, indicating that the device is ready for pairing. Head on over to the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone and connect to the Selfy, and you're ready to go. Placing the iPhone into the Selfy is fairly easy, as the interior material flexes a little. Once the phone is in the case, taking a photo with the remote means just firing up the appropriate app (for example, Camera or Camera+), setting up the camera the way you want it, and then pressing the remote button. It can also be used to start and stop video with a push of the button. I found that the range of the Selfy remote was fairly consistent with most Bluetooth devices -- once the remote and iPhone were about 30 feet or so apart, the connection failed. Conclusion iLuv's Selfy line is actually quite smart -- the company is hoping that you'll buy the protective case with the built-in remote as a start and then buy one or more of the mounts. While the case feels a little chunky, it's actually comfortable in the hand and offers good protection. The remote is sized perfectly for most hands and is large enough to avoid loss. With a SRP of $49.99, the Selfy case is priced reasonably as well. Rating: 3-1/2 stars out of 4 stars possible Giveaway Like to take a lot of selfies? Then you're going to want the Selfy case! Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before May 6, 2014 11:59PM Eastern Daylight Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected in a random drawing and will receive a iLuv Selfy iPhone 5/5s case valued at $49.99. Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
iLuv releases $200 MobiAria Bluetooth speaker with one-touch NFC setup
We first caught a glimpse of iLuv's MobiAria at this year's CES, where it played second fiddle to the company's Qi-certified wireless charger. Now front and center, the Bluetooth speaker is finally available from the company's website (and select retailers) for $199.99. Like many of the speakers we've seen lately, the MobiAria builds in NFC technology to pair compatible devices with a simple tap. Other features include a 3.5mm jack for plugging in your device the old way, as well as a USB charging dock so your phone doesn't tragically run out of juice while playing your favorite tune.
CES 2013: iLuv booth tour
I tote around a handy iLuv USB hub with built-in Ethernet, but the company makes a ton of accessories. Docks, cases, speakers and more can be had from iLuv, and there are a few new items of note from CES 2013 to show you. First, the Aud 5 Speaker Dock is now equipped with a Lightning connection for your new iDevices. No word on price yet, but it'll be available in May. The MobiCup is a Bluetooth speaker in cup shape with convenient controls on the top of the speaker, splash-resistant for outdoor activities. It isn't waterproof, but would work great sitting by the pool or in your beer helmet. No price yet. The MobiOut is another splash-proof speaker, has some good bass to it, and is available for US$129.99. This item isn't new, but I hadn't noticed it before, and I think it's cool. The aptly-named Camera Case makes your iPhone look like an old SLR camera in a leather case. It's classy and retro and is perhaps a bit of a novelty. Still, for just under $40 it's a pretty stylish case for those inclined to look different. If you want a case that adds a grip, SnapGrip (not from iLuv) has you covered. Not pictured: the MultiCharge-X, a box that can store 10 iPads and charge them at once, great for schools and businesses. It'll be available in Q2 for $799.99.
iLuv unveils the Aud 5: a Lightning speaker dock with Bluetooth connectivity for non-Apple wares
Lightning speaker docks have started popping up on the regular and now iLuv is looking to join the party. The outfit has outed the Aud 5, a speaker dock that connects to the latest iPhone and iPod while sporting both Bluetooth and 3.5mm aux connections for the rest of your gadget arsenal. Touch controls get cozy up top for track adjustments and "high power amplification" for the sound output. While pricing details haven't been released, we do know that you'll have to wait until May to snag one.
iLuv outs three more Bluetooth speakers, NFC and Qi-certified wireless charging join the fray
Looking for wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity in your next speaker dock? If so, iLuv's most recent CES announcement may be of interest. The MobiRock is the company's first Bluetooth unit to sport Qi-certified wireless charging pad for re-juicing sans wires while blasting the latest Big Boi album. That's not all. The unit also features NFC capabilities as well. iLuv also outed the MobiAria: a speaker that streams wirelessly via Bluetooth with NFC lending a hand for easy pairing. A USB charging port and a 3.5mm aux jack for connecting the old fashioned way are also along for the ride. Finally, the Syren is the third member for the trio that sports NFC wares. Touting a rechargeable battery, built-in mic and auxiliary port, the device offers 360-degree sound blasts for those afternoon excursions. The MobiAria will be available in May, while the MobiRock and Syran are slated for a June arrival despite pricing info for the entire lot remaining elusive. For a look at all three, hit the gallery below to take a gander in the order of original mention. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
iLuv outs Bluetooth speaker trio: Mo'Beats HD, MobiCup and MobiOut
Now that Bluetooth speakers are all the rage, iLuv is looking to add to its lineup of said offerings just before the official start of CES. First, the Mo'Beats HD wireless unit features SRS WOW tech and a 3.5mm aux jack for wired streaming. The gadget also touts a space that will cradle that handset or slate while The Black Keys are blasting. Next, the Bluetooth-wielding MobiCup is designed to get cozy in that beach chair this summer with 360-degree speakers, built-in microphone, top-mounted controls and splash-resistant buttons to keep things dry (to a certain extent, of course). Last but not least, the MobiOut (pictured above) is also splash-resistant and sports a built-in mic, but this unit boasts Jump-start tech that will offer a quick charge in a pinch and deeper bass tones alongside high-fidelity sound. The MobiCup is priced at $59.99 and the MobiOut at $129.99, however there's no pricing info on the Mo'Beats HD just yet. While the former two speakers will arrive later this month, the latter is scheduled for May. For a look at the entire lot in order of mention, consult the gallery below. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
iLuv ArtStation Pro for Samsung Galaxy Tabs hands-on (video)
The options for Samsung Galaxy Tab speaker docks are a bit limited, especially if you're looking to make use of its proprietary dock port instead of a Bluetooth connection. Earlier this year, iLuv outted its iMM514 for Sammy slates, enabling you to jam some Kelly Clarkson and charge the device at the same time. For $149.99, we weren't expecting to be blown away but we're hoping it'll be a serviceable kit for at least a few Android tablets. We spent a few minutes with the iMM514 and we walked away with some observations.Right off, there are noticeable differences between the ArtStation Pro and some of the high-end speaker docks that we've handled recently. Lacking a top-side LED, there is no visual indication as to whether or not the peripheral is powered on, which was a bit perplexing. Once docked, you'll have the option of portrait or landscape orientations coupled with the ability to make minor tilt adjustments. Controls were pretty standard for playback and responded quickly to our finger commands. As far as sound quality goes, the iMM514 was about what you'd expect from a sub-$200 dock -- it's serviceable and we didn't notice a ton of distortion at maximum volume. Granted, we were smack dab in the middle of CES so our keen hearing could've been slightly thrown off. Oddly, the dock can also be paired with a Bluetooth keyboard if you're into that, however it was nowhere to be found during our demo. Looking for a quick tour? Hit the video after the break. It'll make you stronger, we promise.
iLuv outs Mo'Beats Bluetooth speakers, looks to live up to its name
All name jokes aside, iLuv is at it again. The company keeps the speaker / dock ball rolling with Mo'Beats, a Bluetooth audio stand for your compatible, on-the-go tech. Sporting a cradle design, the iSP245 allows your slate or smartphone to rest while connected to its speakers, located on each end of the kit. If you're lacking the wireless capability or if you're looking to keep things wired, the Mo'Beats also features a 3.5mm jack. While you'll have to wait until May to throw down your $89.99 on one, you can scope out the full PR just beyond the break.
iLuv outs iSM524 ArtStation Pro, 'world's first' Galaxy Tab compatible audio dock
If you've been in the market for a Galaxy Tab friendly audio dock, your wait could be over. iLuv has debuted it's iSM524 for your Samsung Android slate, calling it "the world's first and only audio docking station" for the Galaxy tablet fam. Equipped with the company's jAura Sound technology, the dock's arm rotates for portrait or landscape viewing modes and tilts so you can get the best possible angle for catching up on that Boardwalk Empire season finale. You'll also find an IR remote and a 3.5mm auxiliary input to boot. iLuv promises that this ArtStation will play nicely with the entire Galaxy Tab family, but you can find out for yourself later this month if you're willing to drop $149. So whether you're sporting the 10.1 or the 7.0 plus, hit the gallery below for a closer look or check out the PR after the break for all the details. %Gallery-141641%
iLuv WorkStation dock is for serious iPad typists
I'll be brutally honest: The iLuv WorkStation doesn't exactly win a lot of points for beauty -- it's a bulky device, as you can see above. But what it's lacking in subtlety, it tried hard to make up for in functionality, basically turning your iPad (or Samsung Galaxy, if you happen to swing that way) into a full-sized desktop computer. Plug the iPad in, and you get a tilting and rotating bracket, a keyboard (different models run with a connected or wireless Bluetooth keyboard), and a full set of speakers. If you need a dedicated station for your iPad, this doesn't look like a bad choice. Just make sure you have plenty of room on your desk. The models run from US$50 to $180, and all of the units are available on iLuv's website right now. Expect them in retail stores later this month.
iLuv unveils WorkStation docks, turns your iPad 2 / Galaxy Tab into a PC, sort of
We've seen all shapes and sizes of iPad cases, with varying degrees of utility. But, if you have use for a desktop PC-style dock / keyboard combo, you may want to check out some of the new offerings in iLuv's WorkStation Series. First up is the iMM737, featuring a wired keyboard with iOS function keys that can be stowed in the dock's base when you're not typing away, a tilting / rotating bracket for easy customization and built-in speakers. Next, the iMM517 boasts an adjustable slate holder of its own, a Bluetooth keypad and jAura Sound technology. Need something a wee bit more portable? Perhaps the iCK826 or the iSK912 Professional WorkStation Portfolio cases will suit your workflow. Both offer a wireless set of keys that are detachable, should the need arise. Only looking for a keyboard? That's an option too with the iBTKB20. You can grab any one of these you'd like for $180 to $50, from top to bottom. You'll have to wait until November to pick up the iMM737, though -- everything else will be hitting stores this month. Check out the gallery below for a look at all the above mentioned add-ons, or peep the full PR after the break. %Gallery-135030%
First stereo iPad dock available from iLuv
iLuv, makers of numerous accessories for Apple devices, have released their first stereo speaker dock system specifically designed for the iPad -- the iMM747. Built to accommodate your iPad's rather large stature, with a flexible docking structure that adjusts to fit your iPad, you'll be able to listen to your music, use your apps and watch your favorite TV shows and movies with "orchestral tri-component sound in a speaker dock." With separate drivers for treble, mid-range and bass, Howard Kim, the Sr. Marketing Manager at iLuv, says you'll "fill any room in the house with superb audio." The iMM747 charges your iPad "ultra fast," and syncs your iPad to iTunes while your iPad is still in the dock, too (using a sync cable). The iMM747 is also compatible with the iPhone / iPod touch as well as just about every other iPod under the sun. And for your old CD player, the iMM747 comes with an auxiliary line input for any device with a 3.5mm output socket. Being that there's not much in the way of iPad speaker docks, if you're in the market for one, the iMM747 looks like it's worth checking out. Available in early October, the unit is priced at US$149.99 from the iLuv website. [via IPADMODO]
iLuv's iMM747 iPad speaker dock keeps it classy, classic
iLuv has a long history of cranking out too many iDevice speaker docks to count, so we can't say we're shocked to see 'em pushing out an option that's suitable for the iPad. It's tough to make one of these actually look respectable when it's hoisting a 9.7-inch tablet in place of a pocket-friendly PMP, but the iMM747 actually looks fairly decent. There's a triple driver speaker network, a radiator subwoofer, an auxiliary line input (3.5mm) and a 30-pin Dock Connector that'll also play nice with your iPhone and / or iPod. If you're in the market, it'll be splashing down in the next few days for $149.99.
Engadget's back to school guide: docks and alarms
Welcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Today, we've got docks and alarms in our sights -- and you can head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides. Whether you're simply looking for something to put on your bedside table or considering an iPod dock to replace a bulky stereo, you now have more devices than ever to choose from, which can be a tad overwhelming if you're trying to stay on budget and still get something decent. As usual, however, we're here to help, and have rounded up a range of docks and alarms that should more than satisfy at any price point.
Apple announces Bumpers for iPhone 4, gets into the protection biz
During an Apple keynote, it's almost impossible to catch all of the info flooding out of Moscone. One thing we did catch, and then had to search for, was something about "Bumpers." A quick look at the pages on the Apple Web site didn't seem to show anything until I scrolled to the bottom of the Tech Specs page. Lo and behold, there was a very short description of Bumpers. Available in six colors (white, black, blue, green, orange, or pink), Bumpers slip over the stainless steel edge of your iPhone 4. They come with metal buttons for volume and power and are made of a combo of rubber and molded plastic. This may explain why we've received several tips over the last few days from people saying that iPhone cases are being removed from the Apple Stores. Bumpers are Apple's first foray into the iPhone case business (a market that has been run by third parties so far), and it will be fascinating to see not only how they sell, but what the reaction will be from long-time case manufacturers.
iLuv App Station Review
We know that this next bit of information will most likely shock and upset you, but it has to be told: the current Engadget editor doesn't own an iPod dock. In fact, he doesn't even own an alarm clock. Of course, it would be nice to listen to Pandora or the BBC's Desert Island Disks without switching on the computer during those rare times when we weren't working -- but it was never a priority. Not a priority, that is, until we laid eyes on that cute Alarm Clock app (or, at least, a cardboard simulation thereof) at CES. Now that we have had the iLuv App Station in our hot little hands (and on our bedside table) for a week, the jury is in. Is iLuv's App Station all that it's cracked up to be? Read on, dear readers, to find out. %Gallery-93971%
iLuv's iMM190 App Station dock rolls into availability
It's a bit later than the originally promised February release date, but iLuv has just announced that its iMM190 App Station iPhone / iPod touch dock is now available for $89.99. As we saw first-hand at CES, this one stands out from pack of iPhone / iPod docks somewhat by employing a custom iLuv app, which the company says will be frequently updated with new features. Of course, you can also use any other app you like (in both portrait or landscape mode), and the device will charge your iPhone or iPod touch just like any other dock, as well as accommodate other audio devices via its line-in jack -- no bed shaking with this one, though.
iLuv rolls out iMM178 Vibe Plus iPod dock with built-in 'bed shaker'
Need a bit more than a regular alarm to get you up in the morning? Then you might just be a prime candidate for iLuv's new iMM178 Vibe Plus iPod dock / alarm clock, which will not only let you wake up to a favorite track, but shake your bed in the process. Of course, "shake" is likely a bit of an overstatement, but the bed shaker attachment (placed under a pillow) does have its own speaker and volume control, and promises to "wake up the heaviest of sleepers." Otherwise, the dock is pretty standard fare, and includes a large LCD display, dual alarm settings, an FM radio, and a pair of jAura speakers that promise added "depth and clarity." Look for this one at all the usual sources right now for $89.99.
iLuv App Station taped down with a cardboard iPhone at CES
We managed to get up close and personal with the iLuv App Station at CES. Sadly, we didn't get to try it out with a real iPhone, but even then it would've been difficult to see if the sound quality's any good. How about a review unit, iLuv? *wink* %Gallery-82143%
iLuv App Station speaker dock rolls with its own Alarm Clock App
It's CES again kids and that means it's time to pump out as many iPod / iPhone peripherals as possible. Most are lame reworks of designs we've seen over and over and over again. iLuv's App Station, however, is a refreshing update that combines a few old designs: as a rotating iPhone speaker dock, the device can be shifted into vertical or horizontal positions for movies or music. But there's also a free downloadable iLuv App that turns the device into a big ol' alarm clock. The App Station is expected to go on sale in February for 130 beans.
