Tag Archives: Musthave

iPhone 17 Review: The Must-Have Apple Smartphones of the Year

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While it may not seem as distinct as this year’s refreshed Pro models, or as sleek as the new iPhone Air, the iPhone 17 signifies a significant milestone for standard Apple smartphones.


This is especially noteworthy since Apple has finally introduced a high-refresh-rate 120Hz display, a top feature of modern smartphones, into its base model flagship.

Moreover, the starting storage has been doubled without a price increase. The iPhone 17 is priced the same as its predecessor at £799 (€949/$799/AU$1,399), which is less than the £999 Air and £1,099 Pro, yet it offers substantial value for the price.

Externally, it appears similar to the iPhone 16, but the 17 is slightly taller, allowing for a bigger screen fitting into slimmer bezels without greatly increasing the phone’s overall dimensions. The 6.3-inch display now rivals the ultra-bright screen of the 17 Pro, protected by enhanced toughened glass for better scratch resistance.




The new anti-glare coating on the screen enhances visibility and usability, even in bright sunlight. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The 120Hz “promotion” technology significantly increases the screen refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and animations. This feature has been a staple in competitor smartphones for years, while Apple reserved it for Pro versions of its devices until now.

Additionally, the 17 now includes features previously exclusive to Pro models, such as the Always-On Display, which shows widgets and notifications while the phone is idle. It operates on the same iOS 26 as the entire iPhone range and offers Apple’s revamped glass-like interface design, which appears somewhat simplified to reduce on-screen distractions while maintaining functionality.

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.3 inch Super Retina XDR (120Hz OLED) (460ppi)

  • Processor: Apple A19

  • RAM: 8GB

  • Storage: 256 or 512GB

  • Operating System: iOS 26

  • Camera: 48MP Main + 48MP UW; 18MP Front

  • Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 6, Thread, USB-C, Satellite, UWB, GNSS

  • Water Resistance: IP68 (30 minutes at 6 meters)

  • Size: 149.6×71.5×7.95mm

  • Weight: 177g

Fast A19 Chip and Solid Battery Life




Using a 20W or higher USB-C power adapter (sold separately), your phone can fully charge in 82 minutes, reaching 50% in just 21 minutes. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Powered by Apple’s new A19 chip, the iPhone 17 is among the fastest in the smartphone market, being only slightly less powerful than the A19 Pro. Apple maintains a technological edge over Android rivals, even in its more budget-friendly offerings.

As a result, the 17 manages multitasking and various applications with ease. Its battery performance is commendable for its size, lasting around 44 hours between charges using Wi-Fi and 5G, and about 6 hours of active screen use with the always-on feature. Though slightly reduced from its predecessor, it offers longer life than the comparably sized 17 Pro and notably outlasts the iPhone Air. Most users will require charging the 17 every other day.

Sustainability




The sleek recycled aluminum body and matte glass back provide a solid and premium feel, even without a protective case. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The battery lasts over 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity; replacement costs £95. Note that screen repair is £349 and is not covered by warranty.

This device consists of over 30% recycled materials encompassing aluminum, cobalt, copper, gold, lithium, plastic, rare earth elements, steel, tin, and tungsten. Apple evaluates its environmental impact through various reports and offers trade-in and free recycling programs, even for non-Apple devices.

Camera




The camera app has been streamlined by concealing many features behind a sliding selector and pop-out menus to maximize the viewfinder space. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The iPhone 17 features two 48-megapixel rear cameras (main and ultrawide), alongside Apple’s new 18MP front-facing camera found on the iPhone 17 Pro and Air.

While the main camera remains unchanged from the iPhone 16, it captures excellent photographs in various lighting scenarios. It may occasionally overexpose in bright light or appear slightly blurry in low-light conditions, yet it remains a dependable compact digital option. It supports a 2x crop zoom, effective in bright areas and acceptable in dim indoor settings. The ultrawide camera is notably enhanced from the previous model, enabling more detail and a broader range, particularly effective for macro photography.

Despite the camera’s ability to achieve a digital zoom of up to 10x, resulting images may lack detail and clarity. True telephoto capabilities remain exclusive to Pro models.

The front camera delivers slightly improved selfies compared to previous iterations, with a standout feature allowing it to digitally pan and zoom to encompass all subjects in a group shot, regardless of phone orientation—ideal for capturing landscape shots while holding the phone vertically.

The iPhone 17 offers various shooting modes for video capture, including a dual capture mode that records from both front and rear cameras simultaneously, placing the user in a small inset frame.

Price

Pricing for the iPhone 17 starts at £799 (€949/$799/AU$1,399) for the 256GB version.

By comparison, the iPhone 16e retails for £599, the iPhone Air is priced at £999, the iPhone 17 Pro costs £1,099, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is £1,199, and the Google Pixel 10 is also £1,199. The Samsung Galaxy S25 is priced at £699, while the Fairphone 6 retails at £499.

Verdict

While the iPhone 17 may not visually distinguish itself from its predecessor, it represents a notable advancement over previous standard iPhones.

The incorporation of key features from Apple’s more premium Pro models—including a superior, brighter, and smoother 120Hz display—is particularly significant. An always-on display enhances functionality, and the doubling of base storage to 256 GB, along with improved battery life extending roughly two days, are both highly appreciated changes. After years, the iPhone 17 no longer feels like a substantial downgrade from the Pro model.

The dual rear cameras are impressive, though the absence of a telephoto option limits their capabilities somewhat. The iPhone 17 retains a compact feel for a modern smartphone, akin to the iPhone Air but without being onerously heavy.

For users not requiring a telephoto lens, the standard iPhone 17 is an excellent choice.

Pros: Rapid performance, impressive 120Hz display, quality dual cameras with macro functionality, minimum of 256GB storage, comfortable size, tactile action and camera control buttons, USB-C, robust battery life, extended software support, Face ID.

Cons: No telephoto lens, identical design to its predecessor, not the thinnest, lightest, or most powerful option.




The iPhone 17 remains the last model with a straightforward two-camera configuration, arranged vertically on the back, making it less obtrusive compared to other models. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

7 Must-Have Travel Gadgets for Digital Nomads on the Move

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TA few years back, I turned my fixed workspace into a dynamic setup with rotating tables at airport terminals, train stations, and cafés. As a freelance journalist constantly in transit, I’ve discovered that having the right equipment not only simplifies travel but is essential for sustaining this fast-paced lifestyle. Luckily, being a technology critic allows me to test an array of travel gear.


From coastal towns in Asia to corporate trips across the US and Europe, these items are perfect for packing light, staying productive, and keeping your sanity intact. Regardless of whether you work from a backpack or just want to stay connected during your vacation, there’s something here for you.

Item Trackers

When you’re on the move, losing track of your backpack, wallet, or smartphone is inevitable. An item tracker can assist in swiftly locating missing belongings during those nerve-wracking moments of panic.

Apple users can depend on AirTag, while Android users might lean toward Chipolo, which is compatible with both systems. I prefer the Chipolo Pop for its extra functionalities. It can also serve as a remote button for your camera and offers an option to locate your phone by pressing it twice.

Apple AirTag




Photo: Provided by Apple
$24.99 on Amazon
$29.00 at Apple

Chipolo Pop




Photo: Provided by Chipolo
$29.00 at Chipolo
$29.00 on Amazon

I also recently started using the new Chipolo Loop. With USB-C charging, there’s no need for frequent battery replacements. Additionally, I appreciate the slim Nomad Tracking Card in my wallet for the same convenience, although it’s only compatible with iOS and also supports wireless charging.

Chipolo Loop




Photo: Provided by Chipolo
$39.00 at Chipolo
$39.00 on Amazon

Nomad Tracking Card




Photo provided by: Nomad Goods
$29.00 at Nomad
$29.00 on Amazon

Peak Design Packing Cubes




Photo: Provided by Peak Design

Though organization isn’t my strong suit, I initially had little interest in packing cubes until I tried Peak Design’s. Captivated by the compact size of the small cubes, I eagerly opted for the larger ones too. They feature intelligent designs to keep you organized while traveling.

For instance, they come with dual compartments to separate clean from dirty clothes, alongside a compression zipper for when you need extra space. Peak Design claims their packing cubes will withstand years of use; I’ve been using mine for about two years without any issues.

$23.96 on Amazon
$29.95 at Peak Design

Moment Tech Organizer




Photo: Prakhar Khanna/The Guardian

If you find yourself with an abundance of small gadgets, the Moment Everything Tech Organizer is designed to keep you organized. It offers specific compartments for wires and pockets tailored for your GoPro and Insta360 batteries. Its low-profile design ensures that it won’t bulk up your backpack, plus the dual-layer, waterproof ripstop fabric guards against moisture.

Currently $60.00
$40.00 on Amazon

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2




Photo: Prakhar Khanna/The Guardian

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 fit me perfectly and deliver exceptional audio along with surprisingly efficient active noise cancellation (ANC). I appreciate the stem design that allows control over playback, ANC, volume, and accessing my voice assistant without being intrusive. They have aided my sleep during multiple long-haul flights. Currently, I’m testing the new Apple AirPods Pro 3, which may be a comparable option; however, at $249 (currently reduced to $189), they represent a more significant investment.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

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Photo: Provided by Google
$189.00 on Amazon
$229.00 at Google

Apple AirPods Pro 3




Photo: Provided by Apple
$249.00 at Apple
$249.00 on Amazon

Insta360 X5 360 Degree Action Camera




Photo: Prakhar Khanna/The Guardian

While I use Ray-Ban Meta glasses for first-person videography, they’re not suitable for adventurous outings. That’s where the Insta360 X5 excels. It captures 360-degree footage in 8K resolution, offering a unique angle that standard phones or sunglasses cannot compete with. The latest version boasts enhanced low-light capabilities, intuitive in-app editing, and an interchangeable lens design, allowing you to replace a damaged lens without hassle. Although pricey, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to document their travels in an innovative way.

Insta360 X5




Photo: Provided by Insta360
$549.99 at Insta360
$549.99 on Amazon

Ray-Ban Meta Glasses




Photo: Provided by Meta
$299.00 at Meta

Casio G-Shock 2100 Series




Photo: Prakhar Khanna/The Guardian

I own a white Casio G-Shock 2100 series GA-2100-7A7, which I take on every adventure. From surf lessons at Mantra Surf Club in India to kayaking in Sri Lanka to work-related trips in the US and Europe, this G-Shock has been the perfect companion. It’s sporty, comfortable, easy to switch time zones with just a few button presses, and delivers a premium feel at a budget price.

$110.00 at Casio
$110.00 at Reed’s Jewelers

Apple MacBook Air M4




Photo: Prakhar Khanna/The Guardian

For years, the Apple M2 MacBook Air has been my most dependable laptop, particularly for battery life and user-friendliness. I recommend the M4 model for its enhanced power and value as we approach 2025. As a digital nomad, I need a lightweight laptop that’s readily available, and the MacBook Air exceeds both criteria. Windows enthusiasts would likely recommend the Asus Zenbook A14; it’s even lighter and has a superior battery life than the Apple laptops.

Apple MacBook Air M4




Photo: Provided by ASUS
$899.00 at Apple
$899.00 at Apple

ASUS Zenbook A14




Photo: Provided by Apple
$879.00 on Amazon
$999.99 at Best Buy

Source: www.theguardian.com

Reader Responses: What Are Your Top 5 Must-Have Items When Preparing? | Life and Style

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In light of the recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal, what are the five key items you would recommend storing? Johannesburg Arena Ahmad

Feel free to send me a new question at nq@theguardian.com.

Responses from Readers

Living in a wildfire zone, I was evacuated in 2020 when half the town burned. You can only prepare so much for emergencies. Loss of electricity isn’t catastrophic; within a day, you’ll need some form of light or battery backup, non-cooking options, or a small camping stove. Using your car to charge devices for updates is essential, as well as keeping some drinking water on hand.

If the outage lasts long, anticipate potential plumbing issues. The discomfort of no electricity for a week was challenging, but somehow we made it through. Kiramango

Consider UPS (uninterruptible power supply) and satellite phones to stay connected when local cell sites fail and 4G networks go down. Socialism

The most effective tools are tall, robust, and healthy ones, especially if you’re shorter. A lot of challenges can be solved with a little extra height.

Having a car with enough fuel to reach relatives’ homes is crucial. A working fire or gas cooker can be a lifesaver, though I don’t have either.

Don’t forget candles—and matches—unless either of you is a smoker. An Ace battery-operated lantern with a carry handle is also great for illuminating your surroundings. Spare batteries and canned food are a must; don’t overlook powdered milk. SPOILHEAPSURFER

During the outage in Spain, I found a solar-powered radio with a hand-crank very useful, along with a portable power station, cash, bottled water, a headlamp, and a gas barbecue. KPNUTS888

A camping stove with gas, candles and matches, flashlights, firewood, and bottled water are essentials. hugothecat

These blackouts reminded us to always have cash on hand. Rebchlobrown

In the spirit of the Zombie Apocalypse, I suggest cooking through a survival guide and recipes. Before I dig into an emergency stash, we must stay prepared. Cambridgels

Water, lentil cakes, nuts, and a Roberts sports radio (compact enough for a pocket) are essential. Aside from water, the food needs to be lightweight in case you have to travel far. Monono

As an ex-Red Cross emergency volunteer in London, I’ve faced many crises, including blackouts. My “go bag” contains:
Toilet paper
Soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Change of clothes, sturdy footwear, raincoat
Blanket
First aid kit with extras like blister plasters and water filtration tablets
Two large water bottles
Four days’ worth of non-perishable snacks (like cereal bars)
Battery and solar-powered radio
Battery and solar-powered flashlight
Maps and compass
A small address book with the contact details of my loved ones.

As a British botanist in the mountains studying Portuguese flora during the outage, I realized the importance of a portable solar charger. Much of our communication relies on mobile phones, and connection is often unreliable. Being able to plan and inform others of your safety is vital.

Have cash on hand, as cards and ATMs may not work, making it essential for purchasing food and bottled water.

Sturdy shoes or boots are critical, as you might need to walk a significant distance.

Light sources are crucial; darkness can lead to hazards and can also take a toll on your mental state.

Lastly, maintain a sense of humor and adventure. It’s grounding to reconnect with the realities faced by those who lived in more challenging times and to appreciate the simpler comforts of life.

After navigating out of the mountains, I was relieved to find my anxious partner waiting for me. Astrid Cardamine

I found myself in New York during the Great Northeast Blackout in 2003. My plan to fly back to the UK was interrupted as the last person through security just as the lights went out and facilities ceased to function. Passengers came together, sharing food, drinks, phone cards, and support.

My preparations include a good book, a good sense of humor, kindness, hope, and something to share. Wooraifid

In the face of potential chaos, I advocate for a mindset of calm amid panic, moderation over despair, and humor amid ennui. theteedeehoo

Don’t skimp on toilet paper. Stock up! dorkalicious

Consider flexible lamps with paperback-sized solar panels; a few hours of sunlight can provide an hour of light. These fit easily into a backpack. They might not be effective during a nuclear winter, but they are handy otherwise. Has anyone mentioned chocolate? Gardenerofearth

Dark chocolate (78%), sweet popcorn, and if we’re being comprehensive, Jaffa Cakes, Pringles, and Hula Hoops. My survival list is quite elaborate. Emmaston

As a Californian with a comprehensive earthquake kit, remember to always have cash! Annually, we check our prep supplies and replace any expired food, batteries, and medications. jgurrrl

Gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles are essential; an angle grinder might just help you out of a tight spot. wyrcommunity

As a Canadian, I fill containers with water during storms and keep my supplies ready. We have a wood stove for warmth and snow melting, as well as camping gear for making coffee. Solar banks and lights, battery-operated options, and a gas generator—plus some beer—are all on hand. Marmarie

Do prepare, don’t panic; be ready for whatever might come next. bricklayersoption

Source: www.theguardian.com

Stylish and Practical Phone Straps: 15 Must-Have Accessories for Hands-Free Convenience

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yYou’re likely aware of how the right accessories can elevate your outfit: a well-chosen belt can smarten up your pants, stylish sunglasses can enhance a basic T-shirt, and bold jewelry can make a simple look pop. Enter the latest trend in accessories: phone straps.


For many, this accessory is indispensable. Practically, it means no more digging through bags just to check Google Maps, and it helps deter phone theft by keeping your device close.

You can opt for a striking strap that will draw attention or a more understated design. From high-end fashion straps to upcycled options and trendy finds on Jingiku, here are 15 picks to consider.

Top Phone Strap Cases, Straps, and Wristlets for 2025

Chain Reaction

Accessories Braided Chain Phone Strap

12 lbs at Accessorize

This robust gold and white braided strap allows you to wear your phone around your neck. Its elegance adds a touch of sophistication to everyday wear.

Nautical but Nice

Native Union City Sling Strap

£24.99 at John Lewis
Starting at £17.99 on Amazon

Featuring a minimalist design, this strap employs a nautical knot and adjustable length, converting easily from a necklace to a crossbody style. Perfect for purists.

Pearls of Wisdom

Atelge Recycled Phone Cases with Pearl Straps

£48.44 at Atelge

Atelge’s pearl straps gained popularity after being spotted in Mindy’s hands during Season 1 of *Emily in Paris* and reappearing in season 3. Designed with a long strap, it can be worn crossbody and comes with a recycled plastic case, made from recycled materials.

Handmade Braids

NOTS Phone Lanyard

£40 at Nots

Crafted from paracord and hand-decorated using macrame techniques in a Bristol studio, this design also features hand-blown glass beads. The standard length is 120 cm, but custom length requests can be accommodated.

Utility Style

Bandrea Billy Strap

£135 at Bandalia

This utility strap eliminates the need for an extra handbag, featuring three compartments for items like glasses, cards, and makeup. It attaches easily to the right phone case, and add-ons like an AirPods pouch are available for £39.

Recycled Charm

Charknots Macrame Lanyard

£15 at Charknots

Charlotte Hanson, the founder and textile artist at Charknots, creates handmade macrame straps in Sheffield using recycled cotton in a variety of colors like sage green and dusty pink. A wristlet version is also available.

Star Stock

Bandrier Milly Strap

£56 at Bandalia

With intricate chains and tiny stars, this crossbody strap is perfect for layering with gold jewelry. Available in black or dark brown to complement the gold accents.

Blooming Marvelous

SkinnyDip London Sage Flower Bead Strap

£12 at SkinnyDip London

This nostalgic strap from SkinnyDip embodies the spirit of flower children, appealing to those who embrace their inner bohemian.

MagSafe Friendly

Xouxou Phone Case and Necklace

£68.34 at Xouxou

This phone necklace from Xouxou features a built-in eyelet for decoration along with a matching iPhone case. Available in four colors: Burgundy, Black, Moss, and Taupe, the strap is detachable and the case is MagSafe compatible.

Lucky Star

It’s Not a Different Invoice Charm Phone Strap

£22 from Another Invoice

A celestial-inspired phone strap that adds a unique touch with a star motif.

Raise Your Smile

Studio Bow Happy Strap Phone Charm

£45 at Studio Bow

Each colorful design is handcrafted in London by stylist Bertie Bowen, using vintage glass and resin beads. Custom smiley face beads are made by local artisans.

Neutral Number

Cased Pebble Crossbody Strap

Starting at £33 on Casetify

Ideal for those with a neutral wardrobe, this synthetic leather strap features Casetify’s metal hardware and comes in three shades: latte, oat milk, and beige, working seamlessly with most phone cases.

Rise and Shine

Stringing Breakfast Street

String Ting £44

Handcrafted in London, this wristlet is designed to bring joy, featuring whimsical motifs that are sure to elicit compliments like “I love your phone strap, where did you get it?”

Social Climber

Topology Bungee Strap

€45 at Topologie
£38 at Farfetch

Rooted in rock climbing, the topology strap mimics climbing gear with an adjustable bungee style that suits various body types. Available in 12 colors, it adds a unique flair to any outfit.

Designer Icon

Vivienne Westwood Phone Bag

£600 at Vivienne Westwood

We know it’s a splurge at £600, but if you’re in the market for something special, this phone bag is a work of art, featuring a Joan Lee check pattern and leather accents inspired by heirloom quilts. It snugly fits your phone, favorite lip gloss, and bank cards.




Source: www.theguardian.com

Get in the Race with Mario Kart World: Nintendo’s Must-Have Title for Switch 2 Launch

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hDoes OW follow just as complete and wide-ranging games as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? Nintendo has banked in the answer: it’s getting bigger. Double the number of racers to 24. Increase the number of characters (total of 60). More weapons. And, by catching the eye the most, more exploration.

While this is not a term related to closed circuits, the three-lap formula that the series has completed over the past 30 years, in the upcoming Switch 2 flagship launch title, Mario Kart World, Nintendo has demolished the tire barrier and offers players a For the Horizon style open world. It’s not exactly a complete reinvention of the wheel, but it’s a major change in format since the series began. Considering that a physical copy of Mario Kart World is retail for £75, is that enough?

I had the opportunity to spend some time playing new games, but what immediately struck me was that it was what I would expect from the next generation Mario Kart title. It’s familiar, incredibly refined, it plays perfectly no matter what’s slaughtered, and it looks fantastic. As I ran through the course, the temptation was to slow down and incorporate all the small, quirky details.

The famous internet… Mu Moo Meadows Beef. Photo: Nintendo

Perhaps you’ll have the opportunity to do that with the free roaming element of the game. I didn’t get much opportunity to explore this. It was essentially a lobby while waiting for 24 players to join. I had two modes. First it was the Grand Prix. This is your traditional Mario Kart incident: start, 3 laps, finish. The slight tweak here is that it’s not using closed circuit courses, but sprints all over the world. The moment you are in Boo’s cinema, the next moment you’ll become a prehistoric jungle. I chose to play as a cow of Mu Moo Meadows, a breakout star known for the recent Nintendo direct internet.

As a veteran Mario Kart player (to put it gently), I found you to play as expected. Muscle Memory Takes over: You skid (maybe less agile than the MK8D to explain the wider track). You throw a shell at the enemy. Just like he was trying to use the boost, he screams in frustration when he gets hit by lightning. The level’s design is beautiful, with each track apparently packing with alternative routes and small secrets. Wideer roads mean that the game will lose some of the claustrophobic massacre and cannot escape the sense that the emphasis on weapons rather than promoting skills in the series iterations, but I can live with it. Anyway, I win my first race – I want to record it – and my cow is given a glorious crown.

My time in the game also had one race in the knockout tour mode in Nintendo’s Battle Royale Style series. Follow the course and you will encounter checkpoints on the horizon. Crossing these, the four racers below block continuous and dropouts. This continues up to the final track where the remaining four races compete on the podium. I hadn’t noticed that I would race 23 other journalists in the room with me, so I chose to choose a racing comedy choice as a Wiggler on the Pink cruiser. If I had noticed the stakes, I would have been a Wario/Monster bike, but it’s my fault to assume that it’s a race that doesn’t matter. They are all important.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/3pE23YTYEZM?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Mario Kart World – Nintendo Direct | Nintendo Switch 2" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Knockout Tour mode is refreshing. If, like me, you believe you can achieve a godlike position in the MK8D and run each course during your sleep, if you are used to cruising in the first place without any single bananas in your name, prepare yourself. In Knockout mode, you may start from 24th to 24th.

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The solution is to embrace the massacre. I feel that weapons are more important (I lost the number of golden mushrooms, bullet bills, and star powers I experienced). Amidst all the enthusiastic confusion, I had no idea how long the race had lasted – I think I’m somewhere between 3 minutes and 3 hours. I see the checkpoint and know that I know there is only one scary, timing red shell apart. Clearing the checkpoints provided relief. It was a hurry. I finished fifth and couldn’t qualify for the final section. Aside from this shame mark, my first impression of knockout mode is that it is an exciting reinvention of form and there is a strong chance that it is trying to become my whole personality.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Life & Style: Must-Have Cold Weather Essentials to Stay Warm From Electric Blankets to Cozy Coats

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aAfter a mostly mild and cloudy December, winter has finally arrived. We’ve rounded up some of the most popular and tried-and-true products to help you stay warm, especially when you don’t want to turn up the thermostat too much.


From slippers to coats and pajamas to top-of-the-line electric heaters and blankets, they’ll all help you beat the cold and even stay stylish.

The best cold weather essentials to beat the cold

electric blanket

OHS electric heated fleece overblanket

£20 at Online Home Shop

£34.99 on Amazon

This great value heater throw was rated the best budget option in 2008. emily peck Reviews of the best heated blankets. Available in blush, charcoal, forest green, and black, it comes with 9 temperature settings and a timer that turns it off after 9 hours.

heating airer

Dry: Quickly Deluxe 3-Stage Heated Airer and Cover

£149.99 on Amazon

£194.98 at Lakeland

Warm air dryers claim to dry clothes regardless of the weather without costing the earth any energy. jane hoskin We tested 12 and rated this one from Lakeland as the best overall. She says this dryer is for people who are tired of having to choose between the expense of noisy tumble dryers, dirty clothes on the radiator, and the smell of laundry that dries slowly in traditional clothes dryers. It is said to be for people who have.

electric heater

Duux Threesixty 2 Ceramic Heater

£89.99 at John Lewis

£99.99 at Currys

The mercury is dropping and the house is getting colder. But if you have your finger hovering over your central heating dial, an electric heater may be just what you need to efficiently heat your colander. pete wise We tested eight of the best, including this compact model that thoroughly heats a space while making less noise than standard fan models.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Top remote controlled helicopters: Must-have flying toys for 2024

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Despite the focus on modern technology like virtual reality and artificial intelligence, it’s important not to overlook the simple joy of traditional entertainment. Remote-controlled helicopters, a classic favorite, now come with a range of new features to enhance the experience.

If you’re in the market for a remote control helicopter, check out our list of top models below. We’ve curated this list based on extensive research and user reviews to cater to every budget.

What to Consider When Buying an RC Helicopter?

With various helicopter options available, it’s crucial to think about these aspects before making a purchase:

Flight Stability is key, so look for helicopters equipped with a gyroscope or stabilization system.

Consider the range of the remote control, especially for outdoor flights, and the battery life to determine how long you can fly before recharging.

Easy access to replacement parts is essential in the event of a crash, which can happen while you’re still getting used to the helicopter.

Top RC Helicopter Models

Blade Nano RC Helicopter S3 RTF

Squirrel_text_13061818

The Blade Nano S3-RTF is designed for indoor flying, featuring a lightweight yet durable carbon fiber frame and high-performance rotor blades for stable and agile flight.

Equipped with a six-axis stabilisation system and coreless motors, this helicopter offers power and versatility. It also includes a 2.4GHz DSMX transmitter, rechargeable battery, and spare parts available online.

Syma X9 Flying Car

This innovative hybrid can switch between driving and flying modes. During flight, it can perform acrobatic flips using its four blades and features a six-axis gyroscope for smooth flying.

The aircraft also includes red and green LEDs for better visibility in the dark, with a flight time of approximately 6 minutes and USB charging. It has dual-speed modes, extra blades, and a driver for emergencies.

Syma 2nd Edition S107 S107G

The Syma S107G is a mini indoor helicopter with a metal frame, built-in gyro stabilization, and precise three-channel control. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, it offers up to eight minutes of flight time and a 10-meter remote control range.

Laka Walkera V450D03

The Walkera V450D03 is an intermediate RC helicopter with a brushless motor for stability and agility. Its six-axis gyro stabilization system allows for precise maneuvers, with a carbon fiber frame for durability.

This helicopter features a three-bladed main and tail rotor, long flight times up to 16 minutes, and a 100-meter range with its 2.4GHz transmitter.

Sky Rover Voice Command Missile Launcher Helicopter

Squirrel_text_13075158

This SkyRover helicopter features a unique voice command system for firing missiles and controlling the flight. With eight plastic missiles, wireless headsets, and dual blade control, it offers an immersive experience.

Syma TF1001

Squirrel_text_13074458

This medium-sized Syma helicopter boasts drone-like design and stunt capabilities, including 3D flips and rolls. It features altitude hold technology, dual-speed modes, USB charging, and a durable metal alloy body.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com