It's been a busy week with CES 2024 kicking off the year with many new, some slightly weird, but mostly interesting gadgets being announced. With the likes of the Rabbit R1 launched over the past few days, we've been hard at work checking over the devices making their debuts at the trade show. While some devices have longer lead times than we would prefer, some are already available to purchase. Join us after the break for our “Best of CES 2024” edition, which, oddly enough, doesn't actually feature an Android handset.
Clicks for iPhone
It's weird, new, and hopefully coming to select Android handsets. We are talking about the Clicks for iPhone keyboard case that boasts Mr Mobile, AKA Michael Fisher as a co-founder. Forgive us for gushing about it. It's a neat accessory that adds a new smartphone experience, or at least one that BlackBerry users have been craving the return of for years. Besides the obvious in that it's a physical keyboard, it extends the display's viewing area when texting and even works as an extra grip when taking selfies.
While the price may smart a little at $140-160 depending on which iPhone model you have, it's definitely a gadget that will change the way you interact with your phone. And that's why we want Clicks for iPhone to gain a sibling called Clicks for Android in the coming months.
Narwal Freo X Ultra
As we finish our review of its predecessor, Narwal has launched its latest robotic vacuum and mop device called the Freo X Ultra. It's next-generation smart with world-first features such as a tangle-free floating brush that uses “Hairodynamics” to capture up to 95.6% of hair with no tangling thanks to it being tilted at 50 degrees and spinning fins that ensure the strands are “swiped left” and sucked into the dustbag.
LiDAR and laser sensors replace cameras for improved mapping and navigation, and the new DirtSense function means that the Freo X Ultra can sense the particularly dirty spots and give them extra attention. The dust bag is good for up to 60 days of dirt collection, and the Reuleaux Triangular Scrubbing Mops apply downward pressure at 180 RPM to clean that floor. The Narwal Freo X Ultra launches in March and is priced at $1,399.
TCL NXTPaper 14 Pro
TCL launched the NXTpaper 14 Pro, which uses the brand's NXTPaper 2.0 technology to produce a display that eschews the glossy LCD panel aesthetic in favor of a flat image similar to a color e-ink display. Unlike e-ink displays, the panels still offer the same levels of responsiveness as a normal LCD screen; they're just easier on the eyes. Rather than just cutting down on blue light levels, using NXTPaper 2.0 technology results in a more natural reading experience for the eyes, cutting down on eye strain.
Elsewhere, the NXTPaper 14 Pro is powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 8200 processor with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of built-in storage. There's a big 12,000mAh battery that supports 33W wired charging. Besides using NXTPaper 2.0 technology and the all-important matte coating, which minimizes reflections, the 14-inch display features a 2880 x 1800 resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid
With both Windows 11 and Android operating systems in tow, Lenovo's new ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid aims to tick every box regarding versatility and productivity. The 2-in-1 convertible is Windows 11 on the bottom (keyboard section), and when the display is detached, it turns into Android tablet mode, complete with its own processor, battery, and storage. Both parts can be used independently, which means you can hook up the keyboard to a monitor in Windows mode and check out your favorite Play Store apps on the Android tablet.
Lenovo says that the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid will launch in Q2 2023 with a price around the $2,000 threshold.
Govee Neon Rope Light 2
Already known for its vast array of LED lighting products for home and gaming scenarios, Govee has announced its new Neon Rope Light 2, which can be shaped into all manner of well, shapes. Choosing the color scheme is as simple as taking a picture of the Neon Rope 2's shape on the wall and uploading it into the Govee app, letting you control each area's specific colors. Govee's Neon Rope Light 2 promises to light up any wall in your home, just the way you like it.
Samsung Music Frame
Taking inspiration from its Frame TV, Samsung's Music Frame is a device that looks like a framed picture on the wall but sounds like a speaker. Featuring wireless connectivity, the Music Frame can work as an independent speaker, or you can pair it to a Samsung TV or soundbar to give the audio experience a bit more oomph. Don't worry about the image on the front of the Music Frame because Samsung will let you customize it during the ordering process.
There's no word on pricing yet, but it looks good, and if you aren't a fan of blatantly obvious speakers on the wall, the Music Frame could be just the ticket.
