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    April 27, 2012
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    May 11, 2024
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    October 1, 2015
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    May 19, 2017
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    December 30, 2013
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    January 14, 2022
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hokie00's Reviews
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HP Spectre Laptop: Take your work and games anywhere with this HP Spectre laptop. It runs Windows 10 programs powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and has 8GB of RAM to maximize productivity, and the 11-hour battery life lets you work all day. This HP Spectre laptop has a 256GB solid-state drive for a quick boot time.
 
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Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great Looking, Very Slim Laptop,
on October 19, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I really like this new HP Spectre touchscreen laptop. (typing my review on it now)
It is super thin, super light, and looks awesome. It feels as thin as my iPad in the case (probably exaggerating a little)
It comes with 3 USB-C jacks on the back and a 3mm headphone jack. The USB work as data and/or power. Two are Thunderbolt, the other is standard.
This laptop does not flip over flat like some of the 2 in ones, it only goes from closed to about 135deg. And does not have a fingerprint reader (I am aware of)
Setup was pretty easy out of the box, you will need to be able to connect to wifi to finish setup.
Everything I have tried works well on it (web browsing, facebook, xbox games, movies) One issue I have had is when you close it and open it back up it takes a little while to reconnect to the Wi-Fi.
Since I only just got it I really haven't had a chance to tax it with filling up the data and big downloads. I have watched a movie to test out video and sound. The speakers are so-so, picture is great (sound is great though headphones though which I'd recommend) It was easy enough to stream a movie from my Vudu.
The controls and touch screen are very responsive. I am not used to the touch-screen/laptop (I am still used to separate tablets and laptops) so I tend to use laptop and touchpad to navigate rather than the touch-screen. But it works great either way. Some of the icons and links are a little small to select using the touch-screen (these can be enlarged to make life easier w/ the settings I just haven't done it yet)
It runs w/ Windows 10. I am not a fan but such is life w/ windows and tablet style devices. I prefer older windows for laptops and ios or android for tablets. It also comes with MS Edge as a browser. I am a Chrome fan but am trying this out. I definitely prefer Edge to internet explorer. Still not sold over Chrome though.
I did notice running it for a while charging got the back very hot (being so thin I guess there is not much room for the cooling fan to work)
Overall I really like this laptop. It looks great and works great. I'd like faster Wi-Fi connection on wakeup, and a fold flat ability. Other than that it's great.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
 
Go for a spin with this Sphero Ultimate Lightning McQueen car. It has expressive LCD eyes and a hi-fi speaker to embody the spirit of the Cars character, and its dedicated app lets you control it from your mobile device. This Sphero Ultimate Lightning McQueen car provides over 2 hours of play on a full charge.
 
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Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Cool Car, Tough controls
on October 5, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I have been wanting to try out the Sphero for a while with just the ball and when I saw this car I was excited.
The car looks pretty cool and exactly as seen in the video,etc.
I had a little difficulty getting it setup initially but finally got it working.
The controls are a little tough to figure out. I am not sure if they are not that responsive or my controlling them is not very good. Either way I had difficulty controlling the car specifically at faster speeds.
Setup was simple. Take the sticker off the windshield, plug the car in (for 30 min to full charge, may already be charged), download the app on your device, then connect.
I had a problem using my phone (pixel XL) first so I tried my tablet (iPad) to get the updates and do a first test, then I connected my phone and it worked as well. Connecting seems a little difficult at times and it may have to do with going in and out of wi-fi or other network issues.
The battery was pretty full when I took it out of the box, so I only needed to plug it in to start it up and connect at first. You will also need to plug it in if you power off the car completely (for storage) through the app. You can just put it to sleep and avoid this. After about 30 minutes the battery was below 30% and may have caused some of my connection issues.
For car controls, there are 2 types, Sphero (360 dial with buttons for reverse, hi speed, and donuts) and RC controls (forward/reverse, and left/right turn). The turning seemed less responsive to me, or maybe just lagging. I noticed the car would not come out of turns quick enough and I never really ran it at full speed because I was afraid of running into walls. The range is more than 70 feet, but may lose connection around walls/corners. It definitely takes some work to learn the controls but is fun to play with.
There are several games/videos/settings to tool around with.
Head to head racing w/ a virtual track
Normal App games (fix the car etc.)
You can adjust the app volume, and the car volume (Lightning talks to you will your playing or driving)
The Car/toy is fun to play with and I would still recommend it, but be aware of the connecting issues you may have and the car control issues.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Fuse physical and digital worlds with this Merge cube. It's a toy hologram that you can hold in the palm of your hand, and it works with free apps downloaded onto your iOS or Android smart device at the Merge Miniverse site. This Merge cube lets you play your favorite games with virtual reality goggles.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Fun Product Great for Play- a little jump
on October 2, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I got this Cube as well as the Merge VR Goggles. They go well together. I tested them out with a couple of the free apps available and recommended. Age of Diamonds for the Goggles alone, and Dig for the Cube with or without the goggles.
The products are easy to set up.
The Cube needs to be scanned in to get started and you need to download one of the supported apps to use it.
Like I said above I tried 'Dig' because it was the first free app that looked interesting. The Cube is a 3D building device/game. Dig is a lot like Minecraft (building mode) except you can build on all 6 sides of the cube and see it in real time.
You can use the Cube with just your phone or mobile device or you can use it with the Goggles. I recommend using the goggles it makes it easier. Using just the camera with the Cube makes it a little difficult to maneuver. However, the buttons on the goggles also make staying in focus difficult at times.
I have not had a chance to try out other apps but I think they should be a lot of fun.
On the app I was playing you simply place blocks or objects on the surface you are viewing, then rotate the cube to build on another side. It is a lot of fun, and should be great for kids 7-8 years old and up (to 40+)
Great product with a lot of potential, fixing on specific objects/locations was a little difficult and may take getting used to.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Be transported into another world with the Merge VR Goggles. Compatible with Android and iOS devices, Merge VR Goggles provide an immersive virtual reality experience powered by your smartphone.Explore virtual worlds with these Merge VR goggles. The input system lets you perform simultaneous action, such as running and jumping, and the soft foam construction keep you comfortable. These Merge VR goggles take you to new worlds via hundreds of apps with VR START, and they’re compatible with newer Android and iPhone devices for versatility.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Good goggles fun games little jumpy
on October 1, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I got the vr goggles and merge cube to go along with it. I like the goggles and cube as well as the free games I downloaded to play with them. The games were fun but the screen/controls were a little jumpy and Or unresponsive. I tried out a brick out style game with the goggles just to test it and a Minecraft style building game with the cube
The games were both fun to play and cool to see in 3d. The brickout game, the ball jumped around a little out of whack with my head movements making controlling it difficult. It may just take some getting used to and I definitely want to try other games. The eyepieces were easy to adjust for clarity and made the image excellent. The movement is controlled with your head rotating side to side and your button controls are on the top of the goggles, also the eyepiece adjustment knob (so it may cause your view to go out of focus as you push the buttons).
The apps and images are all provided by your phone or mobile device. My pixel xl was just barely small enough to fit (any larger a phone may not).
I also tried out a brick building game like Minecraft on the Cube. I tried both using just my phone camera and the vr goggles. I had trouble finding a large selection of free games for the cube. The cool thing about this game and the cube is you are building in 3d on all 6 sides of the cube continuously. Using the goggles was way better. Same issues with using the control buttons, you may make your goggles out of focus by pushing the button
I definitely want to check out other games and apps with these two, and I am glad I got them. I think my kids would love using these also
Th vr goggles also have a pop out in the cover to allow camera use (for the cube and other apps)
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
A new standard of comfort and precision. Logitech's most advanced trackball for trackball enthusiasts and consumers searching for alternatives to mice and touchpads. Delivers 20% less muscular strain compared to a regular mouse. MX ERGO PLUS features a unique adjustable hinge and extra 10° wedge for customized comfort and the latest tracking, scrolling and power management technology. Logitech FLOW enables effortless multi-computer control.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Trackball works great, a little bulky
on September 25, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I will warn you. I have been using a mouse for a long time and only briefly had used a trackball (typically older models in stores w/ only 1 large ball & two click buttons). I decided to try this out. I like the idea of the device not moving around and running out of space to reset like a mouse sometimes does.
The logitech works pretty well, all the buttons/ball function as advertised. It is a little on the large size so if you are used to an average to mini size mouse it will seem large to you as well.
I was not able to get my bluetooth connected to my work computer or home computer but I have a feeling that is due to the bluetooth settings on the computers, not the logitech function.
I also was not able to use the screen to screen copy/paste that is advertised in the paperwork and online. Again, I believe it was an issue with my computer, not the device. I would have liked to try this out.
Back to what I did do.
The trackball works fine but takes getting used to compared to a mouse (you must work backwards basically). It is convenient not to have to move it around. I typically run out of space on my mousepad and have to reset. No longer. There are several angle adjustments available - 0 deg, 20 deg, 30 deg. For right-handed clickers you should be able to find a suitable one. I mentioned right-handers. If you prefer to use a mouse with your left, I don't believe there is a way to switch (like just changing left/right click on your mouse settings). This would be the same with any non-symmetric device.
There is the typical left/right click buttons, a scroll wheel, forward/back buttons (for web pages), and a fine-scroll button (to move more precise-smaller range). There is also a sync/switch button to toggle between 2 devices. You can control 2 computers with this device at one time (one USB, one Bluetooth).
The USB was easy to install, it is a micro dongle that you plug into your computer. It would be nice if the trackball had storage for this dongle so you don't lose it.
Also for the angle adjustments, one part is a metal plate that attaches to the bottom of the trackball magnetically, the other is a wedge plate (feels like rubber) also magnetic that goes under the metal plate. Easy enough to use and adjust.
As with device use and clicking. I noticed that the click location seems to not work like I am used to with a mouse. If I hover over a web link or something and try to click on it, several times I have missed the link. This may be a result of inadvertent trackball movement on my part, or something else with the device. I assume it is my thumb moving off the link, but still not an issue I've experienced with a mouse.
In all this device works very well and I plan to use it in place of a mouse.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Control everything from lighting to your refrigerator in your home with this all in one Samsung Mesh WiFi Router and Smart Home Hub. Not only does it deliver an optimized Wi-Fi signal to every corner of your home, it also works as a SmartThings Hub, connecting compatible cameras, lights, voice assistants, and more to create your smart home. Now you can manage your Wi-Fi and all your smart devices from the palm of your hand with this Samsung Mesh WiFi Router and Smart Home Hub.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great WiFi range, versatile, not a LAN extender
on July 5, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I have noticed over the past few months with the addition of new devices in my home that my network was not covering well. Based on my current router location I was getting little to no coverage in parts of my house and back deck. If you are looking to extend your WiFi reach like me this product works well. I now have good to excellent coverage across my home and into areas of my yard. It is still can be password protected like you typical home network so there is not need to worry about outsiders accessing it any more than normal.
The system includes a base unit and 2 additional units (they appear to be identical), one network cable and power cords for all three. The units are fairly small so they can fit relatively anywhere you have an outlet. Each hub has the following on the back, power plug, network in, network out.
I had to wait a while to do my initial install/setup because I needed additional outlets at my main router location (I was already overwhelmed from laptops, printers, and the router). This is a supplementary system so you will need a modem from your cable provider or somewhere in addition. This will not take the place of your Fios modem/router.
The setup is pretty easy. Install the Samsung App on your mobile device to help complete the setup process. Then plug the base unit into your modem/router, plug in the power and follow the book/app directions. I had no issues connecting. This base unit will need to remain plugged into your router and power, and can be used an an additional network outlet (for the one you just used up)
Next you can connect the additional hubs and any smart devices you already have (I only used this for the WiFi mesh features, I currently have no smart devices I plan to connect and control like lights, etc.)
The additional hubs are also easy to setup. You simply plug them in for power at other points in your home where you would like to extend your WiFi reach and follow the App directions to start the connection. As a tip, your base unit and hubs will only reach as far as your router already reaches, so if you are having a low signal near the back of your home, place the additional hubs half way or somewhere between (not all the way where the dead spot is).
As I said the additional WiFi coverage was great in my home, even to the previous dead corner opposite my router. This does setup an additional WiFi signal though with it's own name/password, so you will need to switch your devices over to it or they will still be working off your old router and not getting the benefit of the increased range.
One feature I think this is missing is the ability to setup a guest account like other routers I have used before. There is only 1 signal/account on this system.
Also, I had planned to relocate my Arlo security camera hub to a more central location and use one of the additional hubs. The network out connection only works on the base unit plugged into your router. I attempted to plug the camera hub into the additional samsung hub and it did not work.
If I add any smart devices to my system I will update with my findings
My Best Buy number: 040225918
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Prepare a wide variety of foods with this nonstick DeLonghi Livenza digital grill. It includes grill and griddle plates that can be switched out depending on the type of food being cooked. This 14.5-inch DeLonghi Livenza digital grill has a hinged top so you can make delicious panini, and it pairs with a digital cookbook app.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great Grill, Sturdy, Large, Rem. griddles, tricky
on June 7, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
This grill is very nice. It has a large cook space(s) with flat pan or grill pan option. It has a single open grill, closed panini, closed broil, or open double grill options (doubling the space).
It seems very versatile and the heating seems even. You can also individually control the temperature of each plate. This unit comes with the 4 plates (2 grill, 2 flat), main grill unit, drip tray, and cleaning tool (flat/slotted edges) Optional units have the waffle plate.
It cooks well and can take the place of stove top, oven/broiler, grill. The cook space is about 12"x18" each side.
The heating element is in the pans so they heat more evenly but must be clipped into the base. This requires you to line up the contacts on the bottom side of the pan (not too difficult but may take more than one try).
Some cool features:
The grill plates have independent temp control. You can turn the top off or a lower temp.
The top can be open 90deg for non use, closed over bottom for panini style cooking (with a lower or same temp), closed over but not touching for oven/broil style cooking (with lower or off temp to keep heat in)
Full open to use two grills at same or different temps (i,e veggies on one side, chicken on the other).
I am still figuring out the knobs and releases on the side that allow all these functions (just read the manual and it's easy to figure out)
Plates are removable to wash separately in sink (so you don't have to handwash the entire unit all together). I don't believe they are dishwasher safe though.
Some of my issues are the following:
Drip slots at back of grill don't always direct liquid into tray. There is dripping and condensation that occur along the entire back of the pan (most makes it to the tray). So prepare to do a little wipe up.
On/Off Controls are unusual. When you turn the unit on, it does not stay on unless you hold down the power button to 'confirm' use. Otherwise it shuts off in a minute or so. There is also a timer you can set. Once the timer goes off so does the unit shortly after, you will have to turn it back on again. Basically, don't leave the unit unattended for long when you first start using it. It may take a while to figure out it's on/off nuances. If you don't use the timer it shuts off in 90 minutes.
It's large which is good, but tough to store anywhere unless you want to leave out on you high-demand counter.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Enjoy clear sound produced by 40mm high performance drivers with these Master & Dynamic headphones. The ear pads are made with memory foam and lambskin to keep you comfortable during long listening sessions, and their foldable structure makes them easily portable. These Master & Dynamic headphones are made from anodized metal for durability.
 
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Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Great Sound, Great Quality, Apple only controls
on May 22, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
These headphones look great, feel great, and have very pretty packaging.
They look like a pair that will last for years and years as long as you care for them well (if you keep them in that box you'll have no problem).
The sound quality is great and they block out most surrounding noise so you don't have much interference.
They are easy to hook up and have multiple cord/adapter options.
The only issue I have is the mic/remote line controls do not work on my Google phone. The website shows they work on Apple products. I verified they work with my iPad. Short answer is, play/pause and mic work fine, Volume does not.
The headphones come in a sturdy box with plenty of room for everything if you wanted to reuse it for storage (I plan to). Included are the headphones (steel/alum & leather construction) one 6' regular cord, one 4.5' mic/remote cord, and one 8mm plug adapter all in a small leather box. The headphones have a plug jack on either ear for line to player or to play and share with a friend.
They are plug and play, no setup is necessary.
The sides have a metal rod to adjust headphone size on each ear.
Ear pads are magnetic to pop out and clean or replace if needed.
They are on the heavier side so walking around all day with them may not be advisable, but definitely gives them a durable feel.
Great set of headphones, only issue is they don't control volume for my Android phone.
My Best Buy number: 040225918
I would recommend this to a friend!
-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Take your tunes anywhere with this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker. This floating waterproof device is submersible in up to 1m of water for 30 minutes, and it deflects damage from snow, ice and dirt. Pair this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker with up to eight Bluetooth devices, and use the included dry box for storing keys and cards.
 
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Customer Rating
2 out of 5
2
Speaker sound OK-some quirks/defects
on May 16, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
The speaker sounds good, and has a good volume range getting loud enough for outside noise.
It has a good range on Bluetooth 70 feet or more in an office around walls for controls and volume adjustment.
It is a good size, a little heavy but feels sturdy for outside/beach/park type use. It's approximately 3"x3"x9". There is a compartment on the bottom for storage/plugs, and the charger/additional plug are located on one end. The opposite end has the power/lock buttons.
Controls are as follows:
End-Power and lock out toggle (to lock controls from accidental touch)
Other end-USB plug/charger for device/phone, DC Power charger for speaker, .8mm headphone jack audio in for device/phone play
Top-Bluetooth sync, skip back, play/pause, volume up, volume down, skip forward, change input (from Bluetooth to either jack)
Bottom-inside 4.7"x2"x0.5" closable storage compartment 2nd USB charger, 2nd .8mm headphone jack audio in for play.
The speaker comes with the user manual and the DC plug for charging.
Bluetooth sync worked easily.
The lock/unlock function is a nice feature to avoid unwanted song/volume/etc. changes
Issues I had with the speaker below.
The first thing I noticed is the compartment is very small, not large enough for most phones to keep inside (4.7x2x0.5) and won't fit an iPhone 5s w/o case. Also if you use the plugs in the compartment you have to leave it open and either on it's side/upside down making access to the top controls difficult. It looks like this is to store a very small wallet/money clip or license/credit cards/cash and not a phone or ipod.
The USB plugs are out only and used to charge, not play the device. So if you want to plug in your phone to charge you will have to also use the .8mm jack or Bluetooth in order to play (jack would be a problem, Bluetooth is fine)
The 2nd USB plug inside the compartment did not work to charge my phone, I assume this is just a defect in the model I received. I was unable to test the .8mm jacks since I don't have one and one was not provided. I'll assume they work and the function toggle turned off the Bluetooth so that seems to confirm it.
The outside USB charger works to charge but is not fast either with the speaker on battery or plugged in. It is probably just a little better than holding a charge while playing music or using your phone. My Pixel XL went from 66% to 72% in about 10-15 minutes while plugged in.
The speaker has a front/back speaker but only one of mine worked. I thought initially it was a stereo issue based on the music I was playing but I tried multiple sources for audio and it still only played through the one speaker. Again I'll assume this is isolated to the unit I received and not the way it is supposed to work. (I will contact the manufacturer about this issue and see how it is supposed to function. I will add/comment to this review with any update.)
Last issue is with the DC plug and only a minor compatibility issue and a suggestion for future models. The DC plug to charge the speaker is the small round type with a pin in the middle and not compatible with many other devices. It would be helpful if this was a micro-USB or USB-C, or Apple Lightning or other frequently used adapter type. The plug was provided so there's no issue using it, but it would be helpful if it was a type of plug/cord I already own in case of loss of damage.
All in all an okay speaker for sound quality, the compartment should be larger to handle a smart phone. The multiple plugs for charge/play are a nice feature but the plugs inside the compartment seem awkward to use.
My Best Buy number: 040225918
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Enhance your on-the-go audio experience with this Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Bluetooth speaker, which is ideal for outdoor use. This speaker, which pairs wirelessly with a range of smart devices, plays music for up to 10 hours at a time. Use this waterproof Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Bluetooth speaker, which floats, in the pool or on the beach.
 
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Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great Speaker, Small, Easy, Plenty Loud
on April 21, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I just set this up the other day. It was extremely easy to setup from my cell phone. A simply push of the power button, then sync button, go to your device and select the speaker from your BlueTooth menu - All set.
You can control the volume and play/pause from your device or the speaker. It has a wide range for the volume, and gets louder than i wanted to try. I used it inside and outside. I did not test it to see if it's water resistant/proof I'll take their word for it (It is supposed to be water resistant to 1 meter). I ran it for most of the night and did not drain the battery yet (it's supposed to be good for 10 hrs, I used it for about 6 hours uninterrupted). I also tested it out earlier in my office for range. It went an easy 70-80' around walls etc. (it is supposed to be good for 100' - likely for open space)
It's a pretty simple design/setup. There are 5 buttons on the speaker: power on/off, sync, play/pause, volume up, volume down. There is also a port for the included USB cord to recharge (does not include the wall plug, only USB cord). It has a small loop to hang it with although it's a little too heavy to hang from your belt, but maybe a backpack or duffel bag would be good or somewhere from your deck or beach umbrella. Sound quality was very good, not great as the volume went up loud.
A great product.
My Best Buy number: 040225918
I would recommend this to a friend!
-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
 
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hokie00's Review Comments
 
Pebble Steel Smartwatch: This waterproof smartwatch enables you to remotely manage music, play games, check scores, read texts and receive notifications and incoming call alerts from your compatible iOS or Android device.
 
Overall5 out of 55 out of 5
does everything i need it to
By sherwood from greene, ny
shows my sports scores, tracks my steps, and shows me my texts couldn't ask for anything more
Customer Avatar
hokie00
MD
IOS options
October 1, 2015
Do you know which iPhones this will work with? I saw a 6Plus had trouble. I currently have a 4 but am planning to upgrade.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
 
Add high-end performance to your everyday life with the Google Pixel XL. A quad-core processor, a 5.5-inch LED screen and 32GB of memory ensure this phone is able to handle daily life, and Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protects the screen. Easy cloud storage ensures you never run out of space on the Google Pixel XL.
 
Overall5 out of 55 out of 5
Great new phone-easy IOS switch
By hokie00 from MD
I really like this new Google phone
The screen size is a great jump from my iPhone 5s
The camera quality is much better and the fingerprint scanner (located on the back) works well and fast
The switchover was pretty easy from my old phone
And the new Google assistant easily competes with her apple counterpart
The screen size is large and very clear. A little too large for my back pocket. I enjoy it but will have to find a better way to carry it
The phone is very thin and light so doesn't feel bulky
There is no home button so that was an adjustment as was going back to android from iOS after a few years. But it was like riding a bike-I didn't forget
There's a cool shake function for the camera that switches from front to back as well as several other motion functions you can setup
I also prefer the android keyboards over the apple ones (numbers on all the time)
I have been having trouble finding a variety of cases for the phone so far (likely due to the recent release ). I expect more to be available soon
Overall a great phone. Nice large screen for games videos or anything. New OS is fast and works very well. Screen setup is easy to navigate and the google assistant unlock function is cool. You can unlock the phone with your saved voice saying 'OK Google'
You will be happy with this phone if you are ready for a switch or an android upgrade
Customer Avatar
hokie00
MD
New port/charging cable
October 23, 2016
This is hokie00 alter ego.
I wanted to add to my review something I had left out. Google went with a new charging plug/port for the Pixel. The port in the bottom of the phone is not micro-USB like most anroids before. It is a new port (Google-USB-C))about the same size as micro-USB or apple's lightning. It is reversible like the lightning plug so you won't have to worry about plugging it in the wrong way like the old apple plugs or USB.
The phone came with one wall charging cord and one connecting cord for USB. The wall charging cord has the same new connector - USB-C on both ends and the wall plug accepts the new connector only. The 2nd cord has the USB-C connector and a USB end. The phone also came with a USB to USB-C dongle in case you only wanted to carry one cable but wanted to be able to charge via USB or USB-C
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Take your tunes anywhere with this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker. This floating waterproof device is submersible in up to 1m of water for 30 minutes, and it deflects damage from snow, ice and dirt. Pair this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker with up to eight Bluetooth devices, and use the included dry box for storing keys and cards.
 
Overall2 out of 52 out of 5
Speaker sound OK-some quirks/defects
By hokie00 from MD
The speaker sounds good, and has a good volume range getting loud enough for outside noise.
It has a good range on Bluetooth 70 feet or more in an office around walls for controls and volume adjustment.
It is a good size, a little heavy but feels sturdy for outside/beach/park type use. It's approximately 3"x3"x9". There is a compartment on the bottom for storage/plugs, and the charger/additional plug are located on one end. The opposite end has the power/lock buttons.
Controls are as follows:
End-Power and lock out toggle (to lock controls from accidental touch)
Other end-USB plug/charger for device/phone, DC Power charger for speaker, .8mm headphone jack audio in for device/phone play
Top-Bluetooth sync, skip back, play/pause, volume up, volume down, skip forward, change input (from Bluetooth to either jack)
Bottom-inside 4.7"x2"x0.5" closable storage compartment 2nd USB charger, 2nd .8mm headphone jack audio in for play.
The speaker comes with the user manual and the DC plug for charging.
Bluetooth sync worked easily.
The lock/unlock function is a nice feature to avoid unwanted song/volume/etc. changes
Issues I had with the speaker below.
The first thing I noticed is the compartment is very small, not large enough for most phones to keep inside (4.7x2x0.5) and won't fit an iPhone 5s w/o case. Also if you use the plugs in the compartment you have to leave it open and either on it's side/upside down making access to the top controls difficult. It looks like this is to store a very small wallet/money clip or license/credit cards/cash and not a phone or ipod.
The USB plugs are out only and used to charge, not play the device. So if you want to plug in your phone to charge you will have to also use the .8mm jack or Bluetooth in order to play (jack would be a problem, Bluetooth is fine)
The 2nd USB plug inside the compartment did not work to charge my phone, I assume this is just a defect in the model I received. I was unable to test the .8mm jacks since I don't have one and one was not provided. I'll assume they work and the function toggle turned off the Bluetooth so that seems to confirm it.
The outside USB charger works to charge but is not fast either with the speaker on battery or plugged in. It is probably just a little better than holding a charge while playing music or using your phone. My Pixel XL went from 66% to 72% in about 10-15 minutes while plugged in.
The speaker has a front/back speaker but only one of mine worked. I thought initially it was a stereo issue based on the music I was playing but I tried multiple sources for audio and it still only played through the one speaker. Again I'll assume this is isolated to the unit I received and not the way it is supposed to work. (I will contact the manufacturer about this issue and see how it is supposed to function. I will add/comment to this review with any update.)
Last issue is with the DC plug and only a minor compatibility issue and a suggestion for future models. The DC plug to charge the speaker is the small round type with a pin in the middle and not compatible with many other devices. It would be helpful if this was a micro-USB or USB-C, or Apple Lightning or other frequently used adapter type. The plug was provided so there's no issue using it, but it would be helpful if it was a type of plug/cord I already own in case of loss of damage.
All in all an okay speaker for sound quality, the compartment should be larger to handle a smart phone. The multiple plugs for charge/play are a nice feature but the plugs inside the compartment seem awkward to use.
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hokie00
MD
OK Speaker Update
May 19, 2017
I offered above an amendment after issues I experienced after initial test.
Some items I was incorrect about in my review, others were not explained in the user manual (small paper copy included or full online version)
I was corrected in that the speaker only includes one speaker and not two (one on each side like I thought). The metal grill w/ LIFEPROOF on it is the speaker, the back side w/ nothing on it is just for show (no speaker).
I have also discovered an additional quirk that I thought was a defect. The full online manual explains that only one USB charger will work at a time. I initially thought the drybox USB did not work. In order to get the drybox USB to work you must toggle through to that audio source. So if you are playing through the drybox audio in cable you can charge using that USB. If you are playing through Bluetooth or the outside audio in cable you can charge using the outside USB. I had to find this by experiment. Because there is no readout (to keep the speaker waterproof I presume) there is difficulty telling which source your are on (other than when it's Bluetooth, the BT indicator is lit, and when it's one of the two cable audio in the BT is not lit.
As a result of this I also tested out both cable audio in jacks and they work fine. The drybox cable jack has little clearance so a thinner audio cable is recommended or just use the outside audio in.
As an additional note, the speaker is not waterproof when the Drybox is open (i.e. w/ cables sticking out) so you would probably not want to use it anyway unless you wanted to have two different device cables plugged in at once (which it can handle but only plays one at a time-source toggle)
The Bluetooth call/answer/hangup function works well on the speaker also. Simply press Play to answer & hold Play to hangup.
All in all a good speaker. (Better than I initially thought the first time testing it). The only changes I would like are to have two speakers (one each side) a larger Drybox (go up the the AQ11 when it's available) and a little better clearance on the audio in jack in Drybox for regular size cables.
I'd change this to a 3 Star instead if I could after the retest.
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hokie00