This Week The Trend

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Gadget and gear reviews, buying guides, and games. 🌉 bridged from ⁂ https://www.thisweekstrend.xyz/, follow @ap.brid.gy to interact

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I’ve tested fitness trackers for years—Google’s $99 Fitbit Air gets a lot right

I compared the Fitbit Air with my Oura Ring and Apple Watch, and its sleep and activity tracking held up surprisingly well.

10h ago·5 min read·964 words

This new carry-on let me pack more without checking a bag—and that's not its only advantage

The Cotopaxi Coraza's removable packing cubes and wide-open compartments gave me more flexibility than most carry-ons I've tested.

2d ago·4 min read·756 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 44)

This week's picks include a transit bag, power adapters, and headhones.

4d ago·5 min read·843 words

Why this expandable carry-on backpack became my favorite travel companion abroad

The Bellroy Transit Travel Pack Pro gave me enough room for all my tech gear while still working as a comfortable carry-on for long flights.

4d ago·5 min read·866 words

I travel with a lot of tech. This tiny 65W charger just earned a spot in my bag

I've tested countless travel chargers, and the Ugreen Nexode Air 65W Charger balances size, speed, and convenience.

5d ago·3 min read·600 words

Sony's $650 1000X The Collexion ruined other wireless headphones for me

The ultra-luxury headphones combine standout design, incredible comfort, and noticeably better sound into one seriously expensive package.

May 19·5 min read·919 words

I put my dog’s photo on this laptop charger—and now I’m obsessed with it

I expected fast charging and travel-friendly portability from this power adapter. I didn’t expect it to become the most charming piece of tech on my desk.

May 19·4 min read·673 words

I knew the Toy Story 5 Lilypad iPad case was a hit when my teen daughter wanted it

The Lilypad case turns Apple’s entry-level iPad into a colorful movie tie-in, while still offering the kind of protection parents actually care about.

May 15·3 min read·522 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 43)

This week's picks are a tiny flash drive, iPad case, and toiletry bag.

May 15·5 min read·846 words

This luxury digital frame made my home feel like a personal art gallery

While E Ink technology has a few quirks, the InkPoster Tela delivers a digital art experience that feels far more elegant than a typical smart display.

May 15·5 min read·829 words

The best new shows to download before your next flight

Looking for something binge-worthy at 35,000 feet? These new series on Netflix, Apple TV+, Peacock, and Max are easy to get hooked on.

May 13·1 min read·33 words

My secret boredom buster on an airplane is this tiny e-reader. Here’s why it works

The Xteink X3 e-reader has an E Ink screen for eye strain, saves your phone's battery life, and can be packed in any bag or pocket.

May 12·1 min read·41 words

I used a vacuum packing cube for a trip. Here's what I'd tell other travelers

I found that the vacuum packing cube created noticeably more space in my carry-on, but it also introduced a few inconveniences.

May 11·1 min read·36 words

Audible's new $8.99/month plan will save you money on audiobooks, but there's a catch

You can now listen to audiobooks for only $8.99 per month, but these aren't your books.

May 10·1 min read·30 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 42)

This week's picks include smart speakers, a smart fan, and E Ink Polaroid.

May 8·1 min read·19 words

I tested a smart floor fan that cools an entire room without the noise

With battery power, app controls, and whisper-quiet cooling, the SwitchBot Smart Pedestal Fan feels built for summer.

May 8·1 min read·31 words

A smarter, safer power bank? This 25W magnetic iPhone charger is worth a closer look

The Kuxiu S4 backup battery is a perfect travel accessory thanks to its smart color display that shows real-time charging stats.

May 8·1 min read·36 words

I've heard Bose's new Lifestyle Ultra speakers—here are 5 things that actually stood out

From immersive audio to missing features, here's what jumped out in my early demos of Bose's new audio Lifestyle Collection.

May 5·1 min read·34 words

Marshall’s Bromley 450 is a party speaker, guitar amp, and karaoke machine in one

A fun, feature-packed speaker that shines in social settings if you’re willing to go big.

Apr 28·1 min read·29 words

Apple TV is still worth it in 2026—here are the 6 shows keeping me subscribed

From returning hits to unexpected standouts, these are the shows making Apple TV feel deeper than ever in 2026.

Apr 27·1 min read·34 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 40)

This week's picks include a travel hair dryer, table lamp, and minimal charger.

Apr 24·1 min read·19 words

Review: 'Widow's Bay' on Apple TV is pure suspense

'Widow's Bay' is a creepy half-hour show that might still appeal to non-horror fans.

Apr 24·1 min read·23 words

Thinking about a new iPhone? You might want to rethink your timing this year

From delayed standard models to a possible $2,000 foldable iPhone, here's how Apple's next releases could impact your upgrade plans.

Apr 24·1 min read·34 words

Want comfortable, good-sounding headphones without the high price? This $130 pick is worth a look

The Soundcore Space 2 headphones deliver impressive comfort and audio for $130, but their noise cancellation doesn't quite match pricier rivals.

Apr 23·1 min read·36 words

The best bags for travel, work, and tech in 2026

I use lots of bags for travel and work, reviewing tech gadgets, these are my favorites for nearly any occasion.

Apr 23·1 min read·30 words

'The Pitt' season 2 slips in AI warnings amid the chaos of saving lives

The HBO Max medical drama explores how AI is reshaping patient care without making it the villain.

Apr 23·1 min read·31 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 39)

This week's picks include checked luggage, presence sensor, and a streaming box.

Apr 17·1 min read·18 words

This tiny $79 e-reader could help you read more, but there's a catch

The pocket-sized Xteink X3 is a distraction-free way to read anywhere, but getting books onto it takes more effort than most people will want.

Apr 16·1 min read·37 words

Opinion: Apple's folding iPhone won't be called 'Ultra,' for a very obvious reason

The rumored foldable iPhone doesn't seem "Ultra" enough, which is why Apple could choose a more creative name like Studio.

Apr 15·1 min read·33 words

'MLB Big Inning' might be even better than 'NFL RedZone' for baseball fans

With multiple games on screen and constant live look-ins, this daily show delivers all the drama without the downtime.

Apr 15·1 min read·32 words

I tried Shark's $150 ChillPill—and the cold metal plate is the best part

Shark's portable fan, mister, and cooling plate is built for summer heat—if you can justify the price.

Apr 15·1 min read·30 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 38)

This week's picks include a smart thermostat, rechargeable batteries, and a blower.

Apr 10·1 min read·18 words

This $160 smart thermostat runs itself—and Apple users will love it

Hands-on: The Aqara W200 Thermostat has lots of integrations and sensors so that you almost never have to touch it.

Apr 9·1 min read·31 words

Prime Video's 'Jury Duty: Company Retreat' tricks one man into a fake workplace—and it's still comedy gold

Spoiler-free: Amazon Prime Video's second attempt at a hidden camera show is nearly as good as the original.

Apr 8·1 min read·35 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 37)

This week's picks include a talking flower, steam toaster, and tiny e-reader.

Apr 3·1 min read·18 words

There’s one sports app all iPhone users need, and it’s completely free

The Apple Sports app is now the best all-in-one place to track all your favorite sports, teams, and athletes.

Apr 3·1 min read·31 words

Tested: The best wireless headphones for travel, work, and music in 2026

I test wireless headphones and earbuds for a living, and these are the best ones of 2026.

Apr 3·1 min read·29 words

Tested: The best Qi2 25W wireless travel chargers to take on vacation

Hands-on with several Qi2 wireless travel chargers from Belkin, Anker, Ugreen, KUXIU, to see what the best option for most people is.

Apr 1·1 min read·34 words

5 Things to know about the Denon Home 600, a huge Dolby Atmos wireless speaker

Hands-on with the Denon Home 600. It's big, bold, and versatile, but there are some quirks worth knowing.

Apr 1·1 min read·33 words

MLB games on Apple Vision Pro are wild—you have to see this

Baseball in virtual reality just got a big upgrade in 2026. It might not beat going to a game, but it's close.

Apr 1·1 min read·34 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 36)

This week's picks include a smart lock, smart power adapter, and valet tray.

Mar 27·1 min read·19 words

The new Sonos Era 100 SL is the home wireless speaker Apple should have made

Hands-on with the new Sonos Era 100 SL. This wireless streaming music speaker is simple to use with tons of power.

Mar 26·1 min read·36 words

This smart lock knows how fast you're approaching and can unlock automatically

Hands-on with the Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400, which is the first with ultra-wideband and includes Matter support.

Mar 25·1 min read·30 words

The best wireless speakers to buy during Amazon's Spring Deals

Wireless speakers from Sonos, Soundcore, and more are on sale now.

Mar 25·1 min read·21 words

Legoland’s Galacticoaster is a delightful ride, even while waiting in line

The new Galaticoaster at Legoland is a thrilling shot through space, but even before that, it’s full of entertaining experiences that make the wait easier to bear.

Mar 25·1 min read·38 words

This Week The Trend (Issue 35)

This week the picks includes a robot vacuum, wireless speaker, and tech book.

Mar 20·1 min read·19 words

Hands-on with IKEA's smart donut lamp. Simple decor, high-tech function

The IKEA Varmblixt lamp with Matter remains funky and fresh.

Mar 18·1 min read·20 words

Is the MacBook Neo too slow? Let's look at Apple's cheapest laptop differently

The MacBook Neo is faster than its price implies. But speed isn't the point.

Mar 17·1 min read·27 words

Soundcore Boom Go 3i vs. Bose SL Micro 2: Which small speaker is the better buy?

Hands-on with the Boom Go 3i and the SoundLink Micro 2 to determine the best mini portable Bluetooth speaker.

Mar 16·1 min read·35 words

Apple's wired USB-C EarPods are only $19 and never need to be charged

Everyone should have a pair of wired USB-C earbuds as a backup to their wireless headphones.

Mar 15·1 min read·29 words

Review: Apple TV's 'Imperfect Women' offers a guessing game from start to finish

Spoiler-free review of Apple TV's newest psychological thriller, 'Imperfect Women' starring Kerry Washington, Elisabeth Moss, and Kate Mara.

Mar 15·1 min read·31 words

Review: Apple TV's 'Imperfect Women' offers a guessing game from start to finish

Spoiler-free review of Apple TV's newest psychological thriller, 'Imperfect Women' starring Kerry Washington, Elisabeth Moss, and Kate Mara.

Mar 14·1 min read·31 words

Amazon Alexa+ ads are a big swing and a miss

Why is Amazon positioning the advanced Alexa+ as a device that roasts you and makes your smart home turn against you? These ads make no sense.

Mar 13·1 min read·36 words

The Buying Game (Issue 34)

This week's picks include electric scissors, a party speaker, and a donut light.

Mar 13·1 min read·18 words

Sonos Play is the new do-it-all wireless speaker that costs $299

Sonos announced the Play, a new portable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth speaker for $299, as well as the Era 100 SL, which starts at $189.

Mar 10·1 min read·35 words

MacBook Air or MacBook Neo: Which Apple laptop should you buy?

Is the cheaper $599 Neo a better choice for you than the $1,099 Air? Here's how the two laptops compare.

Mar 9·1 min read·31 words

The Buying Game (Issue 33)

This week’s picks include headphones, a Lego set, and a cheap wireless speaker.

Mar 6·1 min read·18 words

Apple's new MacBook might be low-cost, but it won't feel cheap. Here's why

Apple's new MacBook is rumored to be powered by an iPhone chip. Looking at the Apple Watch SE 3 shows why a cheap MacBook will be good enough.

Mar 2·1 min read·41 words

I went running with robotic legs to see if I'd be faster—the results were unexpected

Hands-on with the Hypershell X Ultra exoskeleton. I used it for running to see how it could improve my exercise routine.

Feb 27·1 min read·36 words

The Buying Game (Issue 32)

This week’s picks include Android earbuds, an all-in-one battery, and ad-free service.

Feb 27·1 min read·17 words

This all-in-one battery can charge an Apple Watch, iPhone, and iPad—at the same time

Hands-on with the Statik SmartCharge Pro 5-in-1 battery. This is potentially the only charger you need for trips.

Feb 24·1 min read·32 words

The Buying Game (Issue 31)

This week's picks include a low-cost phone, travel charger, and soda.

Feb 20·1 min read·16 words

Want to limit doomscrolling social media apps? There's a simple trick for that

How to hide apps on iPhone and limit the amount of time you find yourself mindlessly scrolling apps like Facebook and TikTok.

Feb 20·1 min read·35 words

iPhone and Android users can both use this one tracking card

Hands-on with the Key Smart SmartCard (Gen 3), which works with Apple or Google's tracking networks.

Feb 19·1 min read·27 words

Too much stress? This eye massager with Headspace meditations might do the trick

Hands-on with the Renpho x Headspace eye massager. Massage, heat, and meditate your way to less stress.

Feb 17·1 min read·30 words

You have to see how the Ferrari Luce key integrates color E Ink—it's wild

Jony Ive and Marc Newson, formerly of Apple, designed the interior of the Ferrari Luce, and it's quite stunning in one way, specifically.

Feb 16·1 min read·37 words

Review: "Wuthering Heights" is the fine line between love and tragedy

A spoiler-free review of the 2026 movie "Wuthering Heights."

Feb 16·1 min read·20 words

iMovie has lost the plot. Apple needs a true social video editing app for TikTok and Reels

Why doesn't Apple have a good way to edit mobile videos on its phones in 2026?

Feb 16·1 min read·33 words

The Buying Game (Issue 30)

This week's picks include wireless ANC earbuds, a 4G home internet backup, and a phone game controller.

Feb 13·1 min read·22 words

A 3-in-1 portable 25W charger has no right being this small. It's perfect for travel

Hands-on with the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station (25W) reveals just how compact 3-in-1 Qi chargers can get.

Feb 13·1 min read·33 words

These 4 moments make 'Opalite' one of Taylor Swift's best music videos

"Opalite" has some perspectives and scenes that make it feel more personal and special than some of Swift's other music videos.

Feb 13·1 min read·33 words

Ranking tech's Super Bowl ads—which flopped and which are worth a re-watch?

There are some memorable moments from tech companies' ads during the 2026 Super Bowl, but there are also some terrible ones.

Feb 13·1 min read·33 words

The Buying Game (Issue 29)

This week's picks include a glucose sensor, Wi-Fi 7 routers, and a small carry pouch.

Feb 6·1 min read·20 words

These open earbuds can switch to noise-canceling and might be an athlete's dream

Hands-on with the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro open ANC earbuds. Believe it or not, they mostly work as advertised.

Feb 5·1 min read·32 words

Are tiny pouches the new packing trend? I tried several sizes to see how they travel

Hands-on with the Bellroy Lite Pocket Trio, Cinch Pouch, and other small packing options.

Feb 5·1 min read·30 words

I found good wireless ANC headphones for under $70—and they're not even on sale yet

Hands-on with the Soundpeats Cove Pro wireless ANC headphones. They're a great value for people who want serious noise reduction.

Feb 5·1 min read·35 words

Tested: These underwater headphones can stream Spotify and podcasts from your phone

The Zygo Z2 swimming headphones work underwater, streaming music from all the apps on your phone.

Oct 24·1 min read·28 words