The best new products from May: Shop Brooks, Away, Sony and more

This story is part of NBC Select's New & Notable column, where we highlight our favorite product launches. We will continuously update this article throughout the month with new releases we think you should know about.
Apparel and footwear launches
Brooks Ghost 17
The Brooks Ghost is one of our favorite men's running and women's running shoes — we recommend the Brooks Ghost 16 to beginners, experts and anyone looking for a solid daily trainer. The Ghost 17 is different in a few key areas: it has a lower heel drop, taller stack height, and more cushion (and slightly more weight). It is available in men's and women's sizes.
Tech launches
These may be the new over-ear headphones to get. NBC Select reporter Harry Rabinowitz has been testing the Sony WH-1000XM6 for weeks ahead of launch, and thinks they are some of the best headphones you can get. They have excellent sound quality, powerful active noise cancellation, intuitive (and consistent) touch controls and excellent battery life — everything you could want in a pair of headphones. They also fold down to a small size, unlike the previous XM5s.
Garmin makes many of our favorite smartwatches and fitness trackers, and this new model looks like a good fit for folks with marathons and race training on their calendars. It's the new mid-tier Forerunner watch, with more advanced training, GPS and multisport features than the entry-level Forerunner 165. It also has built-in speakers and microphones, so it can make calls, send voice messages, unlike the previous mid-tier Forerunner 265.
Rabinowitz tried out the Forerunner 570 during a Garmin launch event in New York City, and will be testing it further to get a better feel for all the new features.
The brand also launched the Garmin Forerunner 970, the most premium, high-end option in the Forerunner series, and the Garmin HRM 600, a new chest heart rate monitor.
Whoop 5.0
Whoop is a fitness tracker that distinguishes itself from others with in-depth data analysis, a totally screen-free wristband and a pricey subscription model. Whoop 5.0 is actually three new products in one: the Whoop One ($199 a year), Whoop Peak ($239 a year) and Whoop Life ($359 a year). All of them use a new band that is smaller and has a much longer 14-day battery life (compared to Whoop 4.0's five days). The Whoop Life in particular comes with a Whoop MG band, which has EKG capability. But the biggest changes are to the Whoop app, which now has new health and longevity features and metrics, AI coaching and more.
Soundcore Liberty 5
Soundcore makes some of the best value earbuds and headphones — the Liberty 4 NC are some of our favorite budget earbuds. These Liberty 5 earbuds continue that trend with a comfortable fit, sleek case, excellent battery life and good sound quality for the price, says Rabinowitz. The price is a little higher than the Liberty 4 NC at $129, though.
We love the original Backbone One controller as a way to make your smartphone feel more like a handheld gaming console. The Backbone Pro controller takes that a step further — it's more comfortable, more precise and is compatible with more devices. The first thing we noticed was the improved ergonomics; the controller is bigger, with larger joysticks that feel more like using a classic Playstation or Xbox controller. You can hear more of our thoughts in the video below
Polaroid Flip
The Polaroid Flip is an instant camera that blends retro design and modern convenience in an appealing way. The camera has sonar autofocus (yes, you read that right) — when you press the shutter button, it sends out an ultrasonic pulse to detect your subject, then picks which of its built-in lenses to use to focus. It has a screen that shows you things like your shooting mode, film counter, exposure warning and more. Plus you can also control the camera remotely from your phone using the Polaroid app. The Polaroid Flip takes Polaroid i-Type and Polaroid 600 film.
Suunto is best known for running and diving watches, and this latest addition is their most affordable new model yet. It borrows many features from the Suunto Race and Suunto Race S, but at a much lower price tag. It has accurate dual-band GPS, a super lightweight design (36 grams total), running-specific marathon mode, metronome feature, track running, offline music playback and more. It also gets up to 12 days of battery life, and comes in four colors. At $249, it's extremely comparable to one of my favorite value running watches: the Garmin Forerunner 165.
Rabinowitz uses a Wahoo bike computer for all his long-distance bike rides — they are easy to use and help him get from point A to point B without getting lost. This new model sits in the middle of the brand's new product lineup: less pricey than the Wahoo Elemnt Ace, but more capable than the smaller Wahoo Elemnt Bolt V3. Compared to the previous version, the new Roam V3 has a more colorful, touchscreen display, a built-in speaker that can announce navigation prompts and act as a bike bell, improved battery life (up to 25 hours) and more.
Skin care launches
The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum
The UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is The Ordinary's first sunscreen. It offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, as well as hydrates skin and leaves behind a natural, glowy finish, not a white cast. The serum has a lightweight texture and a noncomedogenic formula, plus it layers well with other skin care products and makeup, according to the brand. It's safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
According to Tata Harper, this eye gel is a skin care and makeup hybrid. It's made with ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and caffeine that smooth, firm and hydrate the under eye area, as well as pigments that add color to and brighten skin. The gel is lightweight and has a cooling metal applicator tip built-in.
Shiseido latest SPF is a sheer, lightweight mineral lotion you can use on the face and body. It also becomes stronger and more protective when it comes into contact with water and sweat, making it great for those with active lifestyles, according to the brand. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, as well as fragrance-free. The sunscreen is made with ingredients like hydrating algae, soothing licorice root extract and antioxidant-rich botanicals. It's safe for all skin types.
Self-tanning might be on your agenda before summer is underway, and Dr. Dennis Gross' new wipes for face and body makes the process easy at home or on the go. The waffle-textured pads are made with AHAs, BHAs, DHA and vitamin E to hydrate, exfoliate and smoothen skin texture, and they help you gradually develop a buildable, transfer-free bronzed glow in under an hour, according to the brand. Your tan will fade evenly over a week, and you can reapply as needed to darken your color. The face pad is smaller in size compared to the body pad.
Loops' eye patches are some of the best you can buy, and the K-beauty brand's latest type are infused with niacinamide, caffeine, tranexamic acid, alpha-arbutin and a brightening complex. Together, these ingredients fade discoloration to brighten dark circles, as well as depuff, firm and hydrate skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines, according to the brand. After applying them any time of day, you leave the patches on for about 10 minutes. They come individually packaged.
Lanolips Sun Balm SPF 30
Lanolips' Sun Balm SPF 30 protects your lips from UVA and UVB rays. It's made with a lanolin base (a type of occlusive) and has a slight gold shimmer, as well as a beachy pineapple scent. The clear formula comes in a tube with a built-in applicator.
Osea Ocean Wave Cleanser
Simultaneously clean skin and remove makeup with Osea's noncomedogenic Ocean Wave Cleanser, which you can use on its own or as the first step in a double cleanse. It's made with undaria seaweed, like many of the brands' other products, and moisturizing camelina sativa seed oil and soothing bisabolol. The Ocean Wave Cleanser is a cleansing oil, so it's lightweight, nourishing and non-drying, according to the brand.
Harry's Plus
Harry's Plus razor prioritizes comfort during all parts of the shaving experience. The brand redesigned its blades to give you a smoother shave, and refined its precision trimmer to help you better tackle tricky spots like sideburns. Harry's also upgraded the cartridge, which has a lubricating strip made with aloe and vitamin E, so the five blades are positioned at the optimal angle to evenly disperse pressure and cut hair in the most logical order. The razor's pivot system helps you guide its blades along your face's curves, and its weighty handle is ergonomic with a non-slip grip. Harry's Plus handle comes with two razor cartridges and a travel blade cover, and you can buy refill cartridges separately.
This shaver lifts each hair up from the root to give you a clean, long lasting shave, and it pairs with an app that offers feedback in real time, helping you maintain the ideal pressure level and motions. It has five modes, including foam for wet shaving and intense for thick beards, and a flexing system that lets you reach all areas of your face. The shaver's stainless steel blades rotate 360 degrees to match the direction of hair growth, and its head has a coating that lets it glide over skin. You can use the i9000 Prestige Ultra with accessories like a UV power case, quick cleaning pod, charging stand and travel care. It's compatible with attachments like a beard styler, precision trimmer and nose trimmer.
Olaplex's No.4 and No.5 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner are among the brand's bestsellers, and recently created new versions for fine and easily weighed-down hair. The No.4Fine and No.5Fine Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner are volumizing and weightless formulas that help strengthen, repair and prevent future hair damage, according to the brand. They also gently remove buildup for a deep clean. Both products are silicon-free and color-safe
Applying Ouai's Thickening Spray can help make hair look fuller and feel thicker, according to the brand. It's made with amaranth peptides to increase hair diameter and amino acids to nourish and repair strands, creating volume and body while lifting your roots. The spray also offers heat protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can use it whether you're heat styling or air drying. The spray doesn't leave behind a sticky residue and has notes of tomato leaves and wet grass.
Paul Mitchell Clear
Paul Mitchell Clear is a new sensitive scalp hair care line from Paul Mitchell. It launched with four products: the Essential Shampoo, Essential Conditioner, Smoothing Serum and Styling Glaze. They're all color-safe, according to the brand, made with under 10 ingredients and are free from dyes, fragrances, sulfates, gluten and parabens.
Wellness launches
AG1 Next Gen
AG1 updated its popular greens powder for the first time since 2016. It now has five probiotic strains to better support gut health and digestion to reduce bloating, as well as additional vitamins and minerals that help with energy, immunity, brain function and mood, according to the brand. The powder comes in a pouch and single-serve packets.
Travel launches
Halfday is famous for The Garment Duffel, and now, you can buy a version on wheels. The rolling duffel has a built-in garment bag that you can access without completely unpacking, and it compresses flat if you're not using it to maximize space. There's also two shoe compartments, multiple interior and exterior pockets, and top, bottom and side handles. You can use the Roller Bag as a carry-on on most airlines.
NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin tested Halfday Travel's Roller Bag on a 4-day trip to Mexico (the brand sent her a sample to test). 'I'm genuinely impressed by how much I was able to pack in this bag,' says Malin. 'I overpacked for my trip, so I brought closer to 5 days worth of clothes, and everything fit perfectly. The built-in garment bag kept my sundresses, rompers and long skirts wrinkle-free in transit, and having a dedicated place to put them freed up space in the main compartment for all my other stuff. I made everyone on my trip watch me unpack and repack my bag — that's how amazed I was by my ability to fit so much inside.'
Away Kids Collection
Away is making traveling with kids easier by introducing this collection of appropriately sized luggage and bags. The Kids Collection includes a carry-on, backpack, lunch box and packing cubes, all in bright child-friendly colors. The pieces are just as durable, functional and stylish as Away's standard sized models, according to the brand, who designed them with travel experts and parents. Away also recently launched on Amazon.
Home launches
Roborock Saros Z70
This vacuum was one of the best gadgets of CES 2025 for one reason: the built-in mechanical arm. The Saros Z70 has a large, articulating arm that can pick up and move small objects out of the way as it cleans. Like other premium robot vacuums from the brand, it can vacuum and mop your home, has advanced home mapping and object detection and comes with a base station for a more hands-off experience.
Coop Sleep Goods' latest collection of bedding is made with 100% Tencel Lyocell, otherwise known as eucalyptus fibers that feel silky and soft against your skin, according to the brand. You can buy a sheet set, duvet cover and two-piece pillowcase set. Coop also expanded its Cool+ Collection by adding a mattress topper, adjustable body pillow and toddler pillow. The brand says these pieces are cold to the touch, making them ideal for hot sleepers.
The Pod 5 is Eight Sleep's latest customizable cooling system that you integrate into your mattress setup. It supports two people and is composed of four core products — the cover, hub, blanket and base — which work together. You can manually adjust the blanket and cover's temperature, play soundscapes through the base and adjust the base's angle through the brand's app. Or, let the system do the work for you — for example, the base automatically responds to snoring to elevate your upper body, and the cover and blanket adjust their temperature in real time as they sense that you enter different sleep stages. Eight Sleep added an AI-powered health check to the Pod 5 that monitors data like heart rate and breathing patterns while you're resting.
Kitchen launches
Breville Luxe Brewer
The Luxe Brewer is the newest generation of Breville's Precision Brewer drip coffee machine. It has a revamped interface that makes the appliance easier to use, plus temperature controls and three modes, including cold brew and custom brew settings. You can also program brews in advance using the auto-start feature. Notably, the Luxe Brewer has a removable water reservoir with a built-in filter, and each unit comes with a water hardness test strip. That lets you program your machine to local water conditions so it can calibrate its descaling schedule. You can use the machine to make a carafe or brew a single cup, and choose from a dual-wall thermal carafe or a glass carafe.
Culligan's new line of pitchers and dispensers is made with a ZeroWater five-stage filter that's certified to remove contaminants like lead, pharmaceuticals and forever chemicals (PFAS) from your drinking water, according to the brand. It comes with a total dissolved solids (TDS) meter, which allows you to test your water before and after you filter it to see how much junk it removed. The pitchers and dispensers have a spot to nestle the TDS meter on their exterior, allowing it to continuously display a reading. You can buy 7-cup and 10-cup pitchers, as well as 22-cup and 32-cup dispensers. All models have built-in LED lights that serve as filter change alerts.
Malin has been testing a Culligan ZeroWater pitcher for about a month. 'The included TDS meter shows me that its filter really is working — instead of trusting that it does what the brand says, I have proof to see it for myself,' she says. 'I love seeing the high TDS reading of my unfiltered tap water and the zero TDS reading of my filtered water. It gives me a lot of reassurance that what I'm drinking really is clean.'
Fellow is entering the world of espresso machines with this appliance. It automatically controls parts of the brewing process like temperature, pressure and milk steaming, and gives you real-time feedback to help you pull shots correctly. The appliance also has a heating system that keeps temperatures stable while you're making espresso — it's comparable to professional-grade commercial machines, according to the brand. The Espresso Series 1 has three shortcut buttons, a color LCD display and a dial to adjust settings as needed.
Why trust NBC Select?
To round up the best new launches each month, reporters Zoe Malin and Harry Rabinowitz choose products they think NBC Select readers should know about. They include products from brands NBC Select has previously covered, or brands staffers recommend. Malin and Rabinowitz also regularly try new product launches to share their first-hand experiences.

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Geeky Gadgets

19 hours ago

• Geeky Gadgets

Garmin Index Sleep Monitor: A Deep Dive into Its Sleep Tracking Tech

The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is a specialized wearable designed to provide in-depth sleep tracking without the need for a wristwatch. It caters to individuals who prioritize comfort during sleep or prefer to charge their Garmin watch overnight. Equipped with Garmin's fifth-generation heart rate sensor, the device delivers detailed insights into your sleep and overall health. However, its functionality is focused solely on sleep tracking, distinguishing it from all-day health and activity trackers. The detailed video below from DesFit gives us a look at the device and its range of features. Watch this video on YouTube. Comfort-Oriented Design The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is designed with comfort as a top priority. Unlike traditional wrist-based wearables, it features a soft, wide, Velcro-adjustable bicep band. This thoughtful design eliminates the discomfort often associated with wearing a watch to bed. The band is machine washable and comes in two sizes, making sure a secure and personalized fit for a wide range of users. This focus on comfort makes the device particularly appealing to those who find wrist-based devices inconvenient or uncomfortable during sleep. By prioritizing a non-intrusive design, Garmin has created a product that seamlessly integrates into your nightly routine without compromising on functionality. Advanced Sleep Tracking and Health Metrics The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor goes beyond basic sleep tracking by monitoring a variety of health metrics that provide a comprehensive understanding of your sleep quality and overall well-being. These include: Heart rate and resting heart rate and resting heart rate Blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) Heart rate variability (HRV) Skin temperature Breathing disturbances These metrics are analyzed to generate detailed sleep scores and insights into sleep stages, such as light, deep, and REM sleep. The device also integrates with Garmin's Body Battery and training readiness features, helping you understand how your sleep impacts your energy levels and fitness potential. For women, the monitor includes menstrual cycle tracking, offering an additional layer of personalized health insights. Furthermore, the device features a smart alarm that gently vibrates to wake you during an optimal sleep phase, making sure a more refreshed and energized start to your day. Seamless Integration and Data Management The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is designed to work independently or in conjunction with Garmin watches, providing flexibility for users. It syncs effortlessly with the Garmin Connect app, where you can access detailed sleep data, trends, and insights. When used alongside a Garmin watch, the system prioritizes data from the watch to maintain consistency and accuracy across your health metrics. This seamless integration ensures that your sleep data is not only comprehensive but also complements the broader health tracking capabilities of Garmin's ecosystem. Battery Life and Charging Efficiency The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor offers a battery life of up to seven days, even with continuous SpO2 tracking enabled. This extended battery life minimizes the need for frequent charging, making it a convenient option for users with busy schedules. Charging the device is straightforward, using Garmin's standard charging port and cable. This compatibility allows the device to integrate seamlessly into your existing charging routine, making sure that it remains ready for use without added hassle. Key Limitations to Consider While the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor excels in sleep tracking, it does have some limitations that may influence its suitability for certain users: It is not a 24/7 health and activity tracker , meaning it cannot monitor daily activity levels or provide round-the-clock health insights. , meaning it cannot monitor daily activity levels or provide round-the-clock health insights. Sleep data may take longer to populate if you wake up earlier than usual, which could be inconvenient for users with irregular schedules. These limitations make the device less ideal for individuals seeking a comprehensive health tracking solution. However, for those focused specifically on sleep optimization, it remains a highly effective tool. Pricing and Value Proposition Priced at $169, the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is positioned as a sleep-specific device. While it offers advanced features and detailed insights, some users may find it lacks the versatility of a more comprehensive health tracker. However, for individuals who prioritize optimizing their sleep, the device delivers excellent value. Its combination of comfort, advanced metrics, and seamless integration with Garmin's ecosystem makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to improve their sleep quality. Enhanced User Experience The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is designed with ease of use in mind. Its bicep band minimizes light leakage from the sensor, making sure accurate readings without disrupting your sleep. Additionally, by allowing you to charge your Garmin watch overnight, the device provides added convenience for users who rely on their watch for daytime tracking. This focus on user experience ensures that the device not only delivers accurate and detailed sleep data but also integrates seamlessly into your daily routine, making it a practical and user-friendly option. Overall Assessment The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is a purpose-built device that excels in sleep tracking. By combining comfort, detailed health insights, and seamless integration with Garmin's ecosystem, it offers a valuable tool for understanding and improving your sleep patterns. While its lack of broader health and activity tracking features may limit its appeal for users seeking an all-in-one solution, it remains an excellent choice for those focused on sleep optimization. For individuals looking to gain deeper insights into their sleep and overall well-being, the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor provides a reliable, comfortable, and effective solution. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on Sleep tracking. Source & Image Credit: DesFit Filed Under: Gadgets News, Guides, Technology News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

NBC News

3 days ago

• NBC News

I've tested over 50 wireless earbuds — here are the best for fitness, noise-cancelling and more

I'm using wireless earbuds constantly. I'm tuning out noise on the subway to listen to a podcast. I'm taking calls at work. I'm listening to music while I work out. I always have a pair in my bag or my pocket. But there are so many options on the market, making it hard to know which is best for you and your needs. As NBC Select's tech reporter, I test earbuds on an almost monthly basis. Below are some of the best of the best for all kinds of activities and budgets. How I test wireless earbuds I try new earbuds all the time, incorporating them into my daily routine. That means office work, video calls, subway commutes, outdoor runs, indoor gym time and watching videos on my phone, tablet or laptop. While using earbuds, I pay close attention to the following: Comfort: A pair of earbuds is only useful if you feel comfortable wearing them for hours at a time. I wore earbuds for upwards of 3 hours to get a feel for long-term comfort. I also tried different-sized ear tips to find my ideal fit. Everyone's ears are a little different. If the earbuds don't fit comfortably right out the box, try different eartips to get a more comfortable fit. Noise cancellation: I used each pair of earbuds for my office commute on the NYC subway. I also used them in-office to block out background noise and conversations. Sound quality: I listened to the same music playlist with each pair of earbuds to identify differences in sound quality and instrumentation. Ease of use: When trying earbuds, I used the on-ear controls to take calls, play media and more. I also downloaded each brand's mobile app, noting how easy it was to use and the utility offered. Some earbuds let you connect to multiple devices at the same time, this is called Bluetooth multipoint — I tried this feature with my phone, tablet and laptop when available. Battery life: I tried each pair of earbuds for at least a week. Throughout that period, I paid attention to how many times I needed to charge them. The best wireless earbuds After trying out dozens of earbuds, my top picks came from brands like Apple, Google, Beats, Bose and Shokz. If you own an iPhone, these are the earbuds to get. They are comfortable, have excellent sound quality and noise cancellation. They are also good for basically any activity you throw at them including outdoor runs and workouts. With noise cancellation turned on, chatter and music at the gym fade instantly, in my experience. With transparency mode on, I can hear my surroundings very clearly, perfect for running outdoors. AirPods Pro 2 also includes four ear tip sizes in the box, more than most brands, which can help you get a more comfortable fit for your ears. The buds also have great on-ear controls, including a swipe on the ear stem to control volume. If all of this sounds good to you, but you can't stand rubber eartips clogging your ears, consider Apple AirPods 4 ANC instead. They have similarly great sound and call quality, but leave your ears more open because they don't have rubber eartips. However, this does mean the noise cancellation is less effective than AirPods Pro 2, in my experience. Anyone with an Android phone looking for one pair of do-it-all earbuds should consider these latest Google Pixel buds. The new design has a mini wing-tip stabilizer in each ear that fits snugly and makes them stable and secure for workouts. 'They are comfortable and don't hurt the inside of my ear within an hour of wearing them,' says NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez. You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars to get fully featured earbuds — these have active noise canceling, transparency mode, Bluetooth multipoint and wireless charging, all for under $100. They are comfortable, sound surprisingly good and can compete with earbuds that are much pricier. The only downside is noise cancellation — it's okay, but isn't very useful against plane, train and car noise. The Liberty 4 NC is not the brand's latest model, and while I would love to recommend the newer Anker Soundcore Liberty 5, which are excellent, they are $130, which I don't consider 'budget.' These are some of the most affordable wireless earbuds that still deliver a steady Bluetooth connection, surprisingly good sound quality and a convenient charging case. The earbuds and case have a combined battery life of around 32 hours, and the case has a cable built-in for convenient recharging. If you purchase the earbuds from the brand's website, you can choose from 13 bright and earth-tone colorways. They don't have active noise canceling or transparency modes, and the app is a little lackluster, but these are fair trade-offs for such a low price. If your top priority is blocking out background noise like the hum of a plane cabin, rattling train cars and water cooler talk, these earbuds are for you. They have the best noise cancellation of any earbud I've tried, full stop. Plus they sound amazing, with detailed instrumentation in music and clear audio in TV shows and movies. They are big earbuds, though — I don't find them particularly comfortable for fitness and exercise. They are also pricey at $300. If you're willing to sacrifice a little noise cancelling power, consider the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds as a more affordable runner-up. The Beats Fit Pro have been one of my go-to workout headphones for years and remain a favorite after all this time. The wing-tip design creates a secure fit that never faltered during runs, bike rides or gym time. But unlike full ear-hook earbuds, the Beats Fit Pro case is just small enough to be pocketable. Both earbuds have physical button controls that are easy to use, even when I am wearing thick gloves during a winter run. You can press either button to stop, start and skip songs, and holding the button changes between noise cancellation and transparency mode. The Beats Fit Pro pairs easily with my iPhone and I have a similar experience on Android using the Beats mobile app. The Beats Fit Pro are dated, though. They originally launched in 2021, and are due for an upgrade. Open earbuds rest on the outside of your ear instead of going inside of your ear canal. I use them on bike rides while NBC Select editorial director Lauren Swanson uses them for runs and races like the New York City Marathon — it makes it easier to hear nearby cars, bikes and pedestrians. While I'm partial to the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, I admit that the more versatile option for everyday use is the Shokz OpenFit 2. They are small and comfortable, have great sound quality (for open earbuds) and fit in a relatively pocketable charging case. But, like with any pair of open earbuds, don't expect them to block any noisy neighbors while working out at the gym. A newer offshoot of open earbuds is clip-on earbuds. These earbuds wrap around your outer ear like an ear cuff, leaving your ear canal open and the top of your ears free for things like glasses and hats. The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are some of the best clip-on earbuds I've tried (with a price tag to match). They don't look very secure at a glance, but after multiple 5Ks and 15 plus mile bike rides, they are some of the most secure open earbuds you can get. They are also comfortable, lightweight and unobtrusive — I wore them for a full day and forgot they were on my ears multiple times. Clip-on earbuds don't have the best sound quality — the speakers are further away from your ears. While audio quality on the Ultra Open Earbuds is good, call quality isn't great. You can learn more in my Bose Ultra Open Earbuds review. , JLab Flex Open or Soundpeats Pop Clip earbuds instead — they are all much cheaper, but have a similar shape and size to the Ultra Open. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are some of the most secure workout headphones I've ever tested. The earhook design and general fit take a minute to set into your ear, but once they're settled, they are rock solid and don't budge no matter what I am doing. The earbuds have noise cancellation and transparency modes, on ear media and volume controls, a wireless charging case and work well on both iPhone and Android devices. They also have built-in heart rate sensors in each earbud, and while a little finicky to sync, they are nice to have if you don't already use a fitness tracker or smart ring. You can read more in my Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review. My previous earhook pick, the JBL Endurance Peak 3, is still a great option if you are looking for something simple, secure and less pricey. Best cheap earhook: For $30, I was surprised by the quality of these earbuds. They have a large ear hook design that wraps around the back of your ears — I found them to be tight and comfortable, but not so snug that I couldn't hear traffic noise or other runners around me. Plus they have a transparency mode and customizable settings through the JLab app. I think these are best as a second pair of earbuds you use specifically for working out or going for a run. You can be a little more carefree with a $30 pair of earbuds than a $300 pair. How to shop for wireless earbuds There are hundreds of wireless earbuds on the market. Some can look almost identical, but they can vary wildly in features and price. Below are a few factors to keep in mind while shopping for a new pair. Operating System (iPhone and Android) Not all wireless earbuds play nice with both Apple and Android devices. If you use Apple AirPods on an Android device, for example, most of their features will be difficult or impossible to use. Earbuds that work well on both platforms tend to have useful standalone apps that can help control noise cancellation, audio equalization and more. Automated noise canceling and transparency Noise canceling and transparency modes are both useful features that add versatility to any pair of earbuds. Noise canceling blocks outside sound, while transparency mode lets sound in so you can better hear the noise around you, a useful safety feature for activities like outdoor running. Cheaper earbuds (under $100) may have one or both built-in, but generally don't perform as well as pricier options. (under $250). Water and dust resistance Water and dust resistance is indicated by an earbud's IP (ingress protection) rating. IP ratings are denoted with two numbers, for example, IP55. The first digit represents intrusion protection against dust and debris. The second digit denotes moisture protection. If you want to wear your earbuds in wet and rainy conditions, get a pair with a higher IP rating, they are less likely to malfunction in bad weather. Why trust NBC Select? I am a reporter at NBC Select who covers technology and fitness including recent stories on fitness trackers, running shoes and cameras. I try new earbuds and headphones constantly, and spoke with other NBC Select team members about their experience with earbuds they use and have used previously.

The Independent

4 days ago

• The Independent

One Tech Tip: No more lost cats and dogs. Use tech to track your pet

'Have you seen the cats?' That's a common refrain in my household because our two felines, Maple and Juniper, can venture outside through a flap in the backdoor. Like many other London house cats, they're free to come and go, roaming the surrounding backyards and beyond, equipped with microchips to identify them if they get lost. If your cat likes to prowl outdoors for long stretches, or your dog has a tendency to run off, it can be distressing when they don't return as expected. If you're worried about your furry friend's whereabouts, technology can help you keep tabs on them. How pet tech works Dedicated pet trackers are collar-worn devices that typically use GPS signals to pinpoint the location of the animal wearing them. They use a 4G cellphone signal or your home Wi-Fi connection to relay the position to a smartphone app. There are many products on the market. Tractive, Jiobit and Pawfit are among brands that offer trackers for both dogs and cats. Devices for the latter are generally smaller and lighter. Dog trackers with integrated collars are available from Fi and Whistle. PetTracer is a cat collar that uses both GPS and radio signals from a home base station. FitBark, also for dogs, has an Apple Watch app to monitor location and other activity. Garmin has a range of GPS dog collars that work with handheld devices resembling walkie-talkies, but they're pricey and aimed at outdoors enthusiasts like hunters. Phone signals Most trackers let you designate a safe zone on a map, usually your house and surrounding area, and alert you if your pet has left it. They usually operate on the 4G LTE spectrum commonly used by wireless carriers. It typically has the longest range of any cellular signal, said Andrew Bleiman, Tractive's executive vice president for North America. That means strong connectivity in most of Europe and North America 'unless you're in a really far flung place like the middle of a national park,' Bleiman said. What it costs Exact price depends on brand and model. Most devices sell for less than $100. However, keep in mind you'll also have to pay a subscription fee for the cell service to function. While that could cost $100 or more a year, for some pet owners it's worth the 'peace of mind,' Bleiman said. Battery life The collars usually have a built-in rechargeable battery but battery life varies. Most will be last at least two to three days before they need charging, and a lot longer in ideal conditions. One big factor is signal strength. The battery will drain faster if the device has to work harder to pick up the GPS or connect to Wi-Fi. Some save power by not sending coordinates in the safe zone. Other features Like fitness watches for humans, pet tracking apps offer health and activity monitoring features. You can see how long your cat or dog has spent resting or exercising on a daily or hourly basis. But be aware, a tracker is 'not going to keep your pet in the backyard," Bleiman said. It will only "alert you when they leave the virtual fence area that you set up.' How to use it This One TechTip was inspired by Maple, who once went AWOL for days. It turned out he was hanging out in a backyard 10 doors down the street. We only found out after the residents got hold of a pet microchip scanner to look up our contact details to let us know so we could retrieve him. Tractive provided a loaner device to try. Using the included breakaway collar, we put it on Maple, who clearly didn't like it at first. He dashed out the back door and jumped through a hole in the fence. Over the next day, I used the Tractive app to monitor his movements. It showed his travels back and forth onto various neighboring properties. He came back to rest for a few hours around midnight, went out to prowl again around 3 a.m, then came back after an hour to nap some more. It was fascinating to see where he was spending his time. According to the app's 'heatmap," one of Maple's favorite spots was the same backyard where we had to retrieve him previously. Losing track About 24 hours after I attached the Tractive collar on Maple, I noticed he was no longer wearing it. It had somehow come off. If you can't find your pet's exact location, or the device gets lost, Tractive has a 'radar' feature to pinpoint it with your phone's Bluetooth. Other brands have similar features. On the app's map, I could see it was in a nearby backyard and that I was getting closer because the circle was getting bigger. But I couldn't figure out where it was and, not wanting to disturb the neighbors, I gave up. Bleiman recommends using a harness for cats that don't like collars, but I'm not convinced. Microchips It's common for cats and dogs to be implanted with microchips, with the details added to a database. That makes it much easier to reunite owners with lost dogs and cats, even if they've strayed hundreds of miles away or gone missing for years. Pet microchips, about the size of a grain of rice implanted just below the skin, are legally required in some European countries. There's no federal law in the U.S., though some places like Hawaii now require them, so check with state or local authorities. But there's some confusion about what microchips can do. Because they don't have a power supply, they can't be tracked in real time. Whoever finds your pet would need to take it to a vet or a shelter to can scan the device for contact details. Air Tags and similar devices are another option Many pet owners use Bluetooth trackers like Apple's Air Tags, Samsung's SmartTags or similar devices from Tile, Cube and Chipolo, which rely on low-power signals relayed by passing smartphones. Bluetooth trackers have a range of 100 to 500 feet (30 to 150 meters), depending on the model. The batteries last for months if not longer, and there's no need to pay for a subscription. However, they're not specifically marketed for pets. That hasn't stopped pet owners, judging from many recommendations they've posted in online forums. Chipolo advises that its round plastic trackers are only for 'in-house pets like house-trained cats and smaller dogs' and warns against using them on "larger dog breeds and outdoor cats." Still, they can be a solution for some pet owners. 'Bluetooth is a totally reasonable solution if you're in a downtown urban core,' Bleiman said. 'But pets move fast. And if you're in a wooded park, or you're in a suburban area — let alone a more rural or wilderness area — it's pretty unlikely your pet is going to be close to a Bluetooth device." ___ Is there a tech topic that you think needs explaining? Write to us at onetechtip@ with your suggestions for future editions of One Tech Tip.