Apple anuncia evento para el 22 de octubre

Se espera que lance una nueva versión de su iPad de tamaño normal y un nuevo mini iPad, que posiblemente posea la pantalla Retina.  Leer. Escuchar

* This article was originally published here

LIFTiD tDCS neuro-stimulator review – A wearable that can improve focus and productivity

REVIEW – Where I work, randomization and context-switching are the orders of the day.  Sometimes it is hard to change your focus to a new task, and with age that only becomes more difficult.  The science behind tDCS says that it can help with that, and more specifically, the LIFTiD headset says it will sharpen focus and make you more alert.  Put on the lab coat, Dexter – let’s follow the science…

What is it?

The LIFTiD headset is a tDCS neuro-stimulator.  tDCS stands for Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, and what it really means is that the headset will apply a mild electric current to targeted areas of your brain to stimulate those centers and produce effects like alertness.  Neuro-stimulation can also be used to calm and soothe, and more – all by applying current to the appropriate parts of the brain.  In effect, it trains your brain to produce a specific result without the use of stimulants (sugar or caffeine) or other enhancers like energy drinks.

What’s in the box?

• The LIFTiD headset with an elastic band to hold it in place while in use
• Electrode pads
• Saline solution bottle and salt measuring spoon
• A mirror to help adjust where the headset goes
• A charging cable
• A carrying case
• The usual collection of user manuals and product information

How does it work?

First, a disclaimer: tDCS and LIFTiD specifically should NOT be used to self-treat any medical condition or disease.  See a proper doctor for that.

OK, a second disclaimer: I have tried tDCS before with a different headset.  While that was a failed experience, it was because of the quality of the device and the accompanying app, not because tDCS is snake oil.  There are plenty of studies you can find just by using Google which shows this works.  I just wanted to say that because – before you spend money on a device like this – you should invest the time to ensure the device is built with quality and is well supported by the manufacturer.  In other words, don’t buy a knockoff from Ali Baba because it is cheaper.

With that out of the way, let’s take stock of the box contents:

The first step to prepare for your first session is to put salt using one scoop of the measuring spoon and warm water into the saline bottle (center and bottom left, respectively).  Shake the bottle until the salt has fully mixed in.  And remember to use warm water because it makes dissolving the salt much faster.  With the salt dissolved, take two of the sponges from the bag (bottom right) and soak them with the saline solution for the first time.  The sponges are flattened before shipment and they need to expand to their full size.

While we are waiting for the sponges, let’s explore the headset.

This is the front of the headset.  Not a lot to see here.  At least you won’t look like an android while wearing it.

And the back side.  The two large circles are the electrodes and will be where we put the sponges when we are ready to begin.  In the center is the USB charging port.  It takes about 3.5 hours to go from zero to a full charge.

The bottom of the headset.  The button in the center starts a session.  The LED will blink red when charging or when the battery is low, and glow a nice green when fully charged.

The headset is charged and the sponges damp (not soaking wet) with the saline solution, so time to begin.  Put the sponges on the electrodes in the headset and then carefully place the device on your head.

Placement of the electrodes is VERY important.  And not every head is the same.  The headset should be centered on your forehead, and higher than it is on my head – it should be right up there at your hairline.  I had it right, but I moved to get the camera set up and the band was not tight, so it slipped.  Lesson learned: use the included mirror to help place the headset in the right position and then tighten the bands.  It doesn’t need to be very tight, just enough to hold it in place.  When you are ready, press and hold the button on the bottom for a couple of seconds to start the ramp up for your session.

You should be doing something active during the session.  Reading email, writing – me, I spend every morning writing code, so that is the perfect time to have a session.  Once a day for 20 minutes will do it.

There is a mild tingling you will feel during the session.  Afterward, there may be some redness where the electrodes sit.  That goes away very quickly, so no need to freak out after your first session.

Does it work?

There is plenty of science and many studies behind tDCS to show the concept works.  So the question is does the LIFTiD headset work?  I’ve only been using this for a little over 3 weeks and I am not sure that is a long enough sample time.  I will check back in on this review in a few months to update.

See what I did there?  In the little time I have been using the headset I have noticed a difference in how I get my work done.  Not an earth-shattering, stop-the-presses kind of change, but a subtle one that has me staying in context with the task I am working on and using my big brain, get it done faster.  It is a noticeable change, enough so that I want to see how much better it will be over time.  So, yes – it does work if you take the time, do it right and make it a habit.

What I like

• The first commercial tDCS device I have tried that works well
• Simple and easy to use
• I had noticeable results in 3 weeks

What I’d change

• Nothing

Final thoughts

It is an important enough reminder that I am going to say it again – don’t use this to self-treat any actual medical condition or illness.  Do use it, though, if you want to enhance your performance (looking at you, gamers!), increase your focus (coders), stimulate your creativity (writers, artists, musicians) or just to help stay alert without the side effects of energy drinks, sugar, and caffeine.  And $149 is a very small price to pay to have a better you, right?

Price: $149.00
Where to buy: From LIFTiD and Amazon
Source: The headset was provided by LIFTiD.  Visit their web site for more details.

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: health, productivity

LIFTiD tDCS neuro-stimulator review – A wearable that can improve focus and productivity originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 30, 2020 at 8:31 am.

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* This article was originally published here

Los AirPods Max ya tienen una funda que protege los auriculares al completo

Los AirPods Max aún están llegando a los primeros usuarios y su stock se ha ido hasta marzo del año que viene. A pesar de ello, una marca ya ha aprovechado para lanzar su propia funda integral. Incorpora además unos imanes para activar el modo de ultra-bajo consumo que les permite aguantar sin apenas consumir batería.

Mi 11 With Snapdragon 888 SoC, 2K Display Launched: Price, Specifications

Mi 11 has been launched by Xiaomi as its new flagship phone. The smartphone comes with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 SoC and features an all-new 2K AMOLED display that comes with a peak brightness of 1,500 nits.

* This article was originally published here

Must-have bedroom gadgets for the winters

Winter is here, and you want to snuggle in bed every morning. That definitely calls for more winter gadgets for the bedroom. So we thought of making this post-Christmas Sunday special for you by curating some of our favorite bedroom gadgets for the winter. 

Related: Best smart home gadgets of 2020

You could start by going for a smart five-layer mattress to add some extra cozy comfort. Or perhaps opt for a smart sleep aid that will help you sleep better. Nevertheless, this winter is going to be more fun and relaxing with these winter bedroom gadgets to accompany you.

Honeywell UberHeat Ceramic Personal Heater

Bring the heat with you anywhere with the Honeywell UberHeat Ceramic Personal Heater. Featuring a compact and modern design, this portable gadget delivers powerful heat wherever you need it. Ideal for your work desk, bedside table, or any tabletop, the personal heater effectively heats up your personal space. In addition, the UberHeat Ceramic Heater is easy to use. Simply choose between two constant heat settings or adjust the thermostat to make it most comfortable for you.

Honeywell UberHeat ceramic personal heater in a living room setup

Eight Sleep Pod Pro Five-Layer Mattress

Say goodbye to noisy alarm clocks that suddenly wake you, starting your day with shock and a thumping heart. The Eight Sleep Pod Pro five-layer mattress features gentle vibrations at chest level to wake you without any sound. And, if that’s not enough, it also comes with an abundance of other incredible features. For example, it includes ambient sensors that measure room temperature, humidity, and weather. It’ll then react accordingly, so you drift off at the optimum sleeping temperature. Or you can set your desired sleeping temperature—with scheduled times—in the app. 

Eight Sleep Pod Pro five-layer mattress setup

tado° Smart Radiator Thermostat V3+ Home Heating System 

The tado° Smart Radiator Thermostat V3+ home heating system connects to your phone so you can adjust the heating from the app. This allows you to set heating or cooling schedules, as well as receive insights and tips on improving your home climate. You can even adjust individual room temperatures on the go. The tado° home heating system lets you plan your temperatures based on your routine. Therefore, you’ll improve your home comforts and reduce your energy bill. Once installed, you can even control it via voice commands, including Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. 

tado° Smart Radiator Thermostat V3+ home heating system

Wyze Thermostat Smart Heating & Cooling System 

Controlling the temperature in your home has never been easier than with the Wyze Thermostat smart heating & cooling system. It works with voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa, so you don’t even need to get up to make it warmer or cooler. Alternatively, use the Wyze App to manage the thermostat from anywhere. The app also includes helpful insights, including your usage and ways to reduce wasted energy. The Wyze Thermostat isn’t just for tech-savvy individuals: you can adjust the temperature from the device itself on the wall, just like a standard thermostat. 

Philips SmartSleep Snoring Relief Band

If you struggle with snoring, it likely doesn’t bother just you. Snoring can affect everyone you live with, which is why you’ll want the Philips SmartSleep Snoring Relief Band. This useful gadget can actually alert you before you begin snoring, so you never disturb anyone. In fact, it uses clinically proven technology in a small sensor that you wear on a strap around your torso. The Philips SmartSleep Snoring Relief Band delivers a gentle vibration when you need to turn from your back to your side. 

Philips SmartSleep snoring relief band in gray

Sony LSPX-S2 Wireless Glass Sound Speaker

Designed for parties and chilling at home, the Sony LSPX-S2 Wireless Glass Sound Speaker spreads music in a 360-degree direction. Therefore, you can place it anywhere in the room, and it’ll deliver exceptionally clear sound. In fact, the three actuators vibrate the glass tube, which turns the entire surface into a speaker. This enables a precise sound quality from every position. And the sound is high-quality, thanks to the High-Resolution Audio that provides a higher sampling rate than used in CDs.

ChiliSleep OOLER Advanced Sleep System

Your body is designed to sleep in a climactic rhythm defined by nature. And the ChiliSleep OOLER advanced sleep system supports this rhythm. Letting you sleep as nature intended, this luxurious sleep system complements your circadian rhythm. In fact, the OOLER sleep system uses temperature technology to signal and maintain sleep. You’ll re-align with your ancestral sleeping style using this cooling mattress pad. Unlike fans and wicking fabrics, this device lets you sleep when it’s colder and darker. Then, it encourages you to wake when it’s warmer and brighter. 

ChiliSleep OOLER advanced sleep system in white

AROMEO Sense Smart Sleep Aid

Imagine falling asleep to a dimming sunset light, sedative woody aroma, and gentle music. When it’s time to wake up, you are greeted by a glowing sunrise light, uplifting citrus aroma, and energizing music. Much better than your alarm clock, isn’t it? Meet AROMEO Sense, a gadget that creates an ideal environment for sleeping, waking up, and relaxing using a synergy of aroma, light, and sound therapy. It’s a smart mood light and an essential oil diffuser complete with a mindfulness app. It’s so easy to get started. AROMEO Sense comes with three easy-to-use preset modules—Sleep, Relax, and Focus. 

AROMEO Sense smart sleep aid in use

Xenoma e-skin Sleep & Lounge Smart Pajamas 

The Xenoma e-skin Sleep & Lounge smart pajamas come with a hub that tracks your everyday movement to detect any falls. This smart hub then alerts loved ones so they can seek the appropriate care. But, the hub does much more than this. It also monitors your body motion during sleep to help you improve your sleeping habits. When connected to a smart home, this hub adjusts the temperature of the air conditioner while you’re asleep. It’ll also provide you with proactive exercise advice during the day. 

Xenoma e-skin Sleep & Lounge smart pajamas in use

Muse S Brain Sensing Headband

Meditating is hard, and it can take years to perfect the practice. If it’s something you’re struggling to get better at, the Muse S brain sensing headband is for you. This headband provides real-time feedback on your brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and body movements to help you meditate more efficiently. In fact, you can even use the soothing voice guidance feature for Go-To-Sleep support. And we all know how important a good night’s sleep is for health and productivity. Furthermore, the meditation headband features tracking for EEG, PPG, an accelerometer, Pulse Oximetry, and a gyroscope. 

Muse S brain sensing headband in use

Which one of these bedroom gadgets would you bring home this winter? Share with us in the comments below.

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* This article was originally published here