For those unfamiliar, what is the Hydroflyer — and how does it redefine the water sports experience?

The Hydroflyer is an electric hydrofoil personal watercraft that I often explain as being a cross between an efoil and a jet ski.

It uses an electric motor and a hydrofoil wing to lift out of the water and fly smoothly above the surface. When a look of confusion comes over their face, I usually pull up thehydroflyer.com and show them, as a picture or video does a much better job than I can.

Where did the original idea for the Hydroflyer come from, and what problem were you aiming to solve in the market?

The original idea for Hydroflyer started as a passion project of mine. I saw someone foiling in a magazine and immediately knew I needed to do this, and started building my own foils and later electric foiling surfboards.

I kept trying to make these boards smaller and lighter, but I found that the weight of the batteries, motors, and computers made them feel heavy for something I was controlling with just my feet.

I grew up on dirt bikes, snowmobiles and used to race mountain bikes competitively, so the idea of a switch to a “handlebar-based set-up” for more control made a lot of sense to me, and I built the original prototype from an old bike frame. The first day I got it working, I immediately new this was a whole new sport and to me it was better in every way.  

Hydrofoiling is a rapidly growing category — what makes the Hydroflyer stand out from traditional e-foils or boards?

Unlike other eFoils on the market, the Hydroflyer was built from the ground up to be ridden like a bike or motorcycle.

The internal structure of the board needed to be much stronger to handle the extra force that could be applied. The board shape was refined to give a seamless transition of coming on and off foil, and a dual antenna system was developed to keep the rider in control at all times.

How did you approach designing a product that feels both futuristic and intuitive for new users?

From there, the next step was to make it adjustable and user-friendly so everyone could set it up to their liking. Coming from a mountain biking background, I knew how important handlebar setup was and how different some people like it.

People also like to ride in different styles, so it was crucial to have a craft that could be adjusted to the rider’s preferences with an upper mast that moves forward and back, adjustable shims and multiple power levels that allow you to ride in a casual way or a very sporty way.

What were some of the biggest technical or engineering challenges in developing the Hydroflyer, and how did your team overcome them? 

Salt water is probably one of the most challenging environments to make a device for, so this was always at the forefront of design challenges.

Having something that both heats up and cools down in the water accentuates this problem, so the first principle was triple redundancy on all waterproofing solutions. Take, for instance, the computer on the Hydroflyer. This starts off as a water-resistant piece, is then potted in a waterproof material hidden inside a waterproof compartment with double layers of waterproof gaskets, and then sealed again from the outside.

From a business standpoint, what has been your go-to-market strategy — and how has the market responded so far?

Our original go-to-market strategy was to follow the Tesla model of releasing a high-end premium product to early adopters while we work towards a mass market model. Hydroflyer 1.0 is full carbon fiber and titanium – a top-of-the-line craft that people love but definitely isn’t in everyone’s budget.

Innovation is often about timing — why do you think now is the right time for a product like the Hydroflyer to take off?

I totally agree with the timing part, and to be honest, I think people were not ready for the Hydroflyer when we launched, and lots of people saw the handlebar-focused craft as a learning tool and not the performance machine it was.

It’s only after a couple of years of media and press that people are now seeing the advantages of the Hydroflyer.

How do you see the Hydroflyer changing the landscape of leisure, luxury, and marine tourism industries globally?

Hydroflyer 1.0 enables everyone to learn to foil safely without the fear of injury. It’s an excellent device for rental centres or anyone who enjoys spending time on the water. Our guiding principle, however, is to become the personal watercraft of the future. 

Future Hydroflyers will allow someone with zero experience to hop on and glide across the water for the first time without ever getting wet. This will introduce a micromobility aspect to all waterways, just as electric scooters have transformed city transportation.

What types of customers or communities have most embraced the Hydroflyer, and were there any surprises there?

Resorts like Club Med have been a great place to explore the Hydroflyer, as it lets guests experience learning to foil without the typical dangers associated with a regular eFoil. 

As a CEO, what’s your long-term vision for the brand — is the Hydroflyer the start of a broader lifestyle or product ecosystem?

The plan is to build Hydroflyer into an ecosystem of products. We will always have the high-performance, recreational product as part of it, but future products will be micromobility solutions for people to navigate waterways, autonomous last-mile delivery devices and tools that parties like the Coast Guard can use to explore the coast. 

Sustainability is a growing priority for consumers. How does the Hydroflyer align with that shift in values?

Sustainability has always been foundational to Hydroflyer, and we see it as a clean, quiet and green alternative to the traditional jet ski. 

Lastly, if you could sum up the Hydroflyer experience in one sentence, what would it be — and why should our readers try it for themselves?

Riding a Hydroflyer is my favourite thing in the world, it’s exciting and rewarding whether you’re getting on it for the first time or the thousandth time! 

The Hydroflyer is undoubtedly going places, and you’ll likely see one on a beach near you very soon and maybe even in a future James Bond flick one day. You can keep up with all of their news and updates by following their social channels below.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• YouTube

Craig Peterson

The post CRISP. Talks – Interview with Jerry McArthur, CEO of The Hydroflyer appeared first on CRISP..

Eufy, part of the Anker Innovations family, has steadily become one of the most recognisable names in the smart home space. Its presence in the UK has grown with confidence, offering feature-rich devices that balance practicality with polish and keen pricing.

Best known for its early success with RoboVac cleaners and smart home security systems, Eufy now brings that same maturity to its higher-tier vacuum lineup.

While legacy players like Roomba still hold household-name status, Eufy’s approach feels more modern, more nimble, and increasingly hard to ignore, with the E25 reflecting that momentum. It arrives fully formed, clearly built with a deep understanding of how people actually live with technology.

Positioned just beneath the flagship Omni S1 Pro in terms of pricing and features, the E25 sits at the heart of Eufy’s growing robot vacuum range.

It offers much of the same automation and intelligence as the top-tier, but at a relatively accessible – but still very much premium – price, making it a tempting upgrade for seasoned users and a compelling starting point for newcomers.

After two weeks with the Eufy E25, the handheld vacuum has barely been touched and the old Roomba is no longer part of the weekly cleaning routine. This robot handles cleaning with a sense of order that fits easily into family life.

Having used a Roomba 650 for over ten years, I came into this expecting a few familiar quirks. The E25 doesn’t follow that pattern. It maps the home with accuracy, adapts to floor types without asking, and simply gets on with the task at hand.

Each run (we’re on #25 at the moment – each clean’s duration, distance and even the number of edges attended to is recorded in the app) leaves floors looking that much more cared for. The E25 works with a calm efficiency that you begin to notice most when it stops, not while it’s going around the house.

Floors stay cleaner for longer, and schedules run on time with it rarely getting snarled up in cables or furniture (although it does happen on occasion). There’s a quiet satisfaction to it all!

Designed to be seen

The E25 has a clean, deliberate design. It arrives with a reflective piano-black and matte two-tone finish, with a LiDAR turret on the top that lends it real presence. When the light catches it just right, the whole unit feels more like a premium appliance than a functional tool.

At 353mm wide, 353mm deep and standing 105mm tall (13.9 x 13.9 x 4.1 inches), the E25 is slightly chunkier than some rivals. It weighs just over 3.2 kilograms, light enough to move between floors, but built to remain in one place once stationed. The lack of a dedicated handle and the ease with which the transparent cover on the top can be removed does mean each transportation by hand does need to be done delicately.

That added height caused by the raised turret also means it cannot slide under low furniture, so sofas with close-to-floor designs or deep-set shelving units remain untouched unless cleaned manually.

The base station measures approximately 362mm tall by 450mm wide and 410mm deep (14.2 x 17.7 x 16.1 inches), making for a large, but not unwieldy addition to the set-up.

More importantly, it houses serious functionality as inside you’ll find separate tanks for clean and dirty water, a mop cleaning tray, and a sealed 2.5L dust bag compartment. After each cleaning session, the robot returns to the base and automatically transfers the collected dust and debris into this compartment – although this can also be customised to your preference, as well as avoiding it being done during the night (more on this later).

This means you’re not needing to empty the onboard dustbin manually every time, as the base handles that part for you and leaves the room dust-free. The base also features warm air drying for the mop pad, which prevents musty smells and bacterial build-up.

In terms of packaging, the box includes the robot vacuum and mop, the base station, one mop roller, one replacement dust bag, a small cleaning tool and a power cable. A printed quick-start guide walks you through setup, but the app provides step-by-step guidance with visuals.

Initial setup takes less than 10 minutes. Plug in the dock, insert the mop roller, add water to the clean tank and pair it with the Eufy Clean app. Once connected to Wi-Fi, the robot automatically begins its first mapping run, after a quick firmware update.

The base station is as considered as the robot itself. It holds two water tanks and a generous dust compartment, and it carries out the mop-cleaning process between jobs. There’s a sense of purpose in how the E25 docks. One of the photos captures it perfectly: wheels aligned, pad rinsed, ready to go again. It looks substantial, but every centimetre of footprint earns its keep.

A smart, home companion

The Eufy Clean app is where things get personal. Pairing is quick, the interface is intuitive, and the map-building feature is genuinely impressive. Watching the robot crawl methodically through each room while scanning a digital twin of your home feels decidedly cyberpunk…a far cry from the ‘bump into it and see’ nature of robot vacuums of the past.

That said, the mapping process did require a little human guidance. On the first attempts, it got a bit turned around scanning upstairs. I learned to manually select rooms like the bathroom instead of carrying the unit and expecting it to just crack on. One time, I asked it to clean the bathroom after moving it there, but it skipped mopping altogether and reverted to a vacuum-only mode.

I later realised it hadn’t done its mop-washing ritual at the base, so was understandably reluctant to smear unclean pads around the floor. The robot currently lacks a mop-only mode, which means that triggering a standalone session requires a bit of manual setup for a particular room with a compliant surface – lesson learned.

Once everything clicked, it was off! You can create schedules, label individual rooms and spaces, highlight no-go areas and adjust suction and water levels with an absurd level of detail – naturally with AI-assisted options, if you so desire.

I now have a mid-morning vacuum pass, a full vacuum and mop combo after dinner and a stealthy overnight sweep that leaves the hallway spotless by morning – pair that with the hypnotic watching of the little line of travel on the app, showing its paths around obstacles and best efforts to leave no corner unclean – and it quickly becomes a bit addictive to keep your rooms spotless!

The indicator light on the base is striking. At night, it glows like a beacon. Helpful if you want a floor-level lighthouse, less so if it lives in a bedroom or open-plan space where you’re trying to unwind.

Mopping worth praising

The mopping system stands out. The HydroJet roller spins at up to 180 RPM, scrubbing the floor with 1.5 kilograms of downward pressure and a consistent stream of clean water. At the same time, dirty water is lifted into a separate tank. This isn’t just surface wiping. It lifts grime and leaves the floor with a refreshed, dry finish.

It deals well with everyday mess. Spilt milk, cooking splashes, muddy footprints and sticky marks all clear up in a single session. The base station rinses the mop with clean water and dries it with warm air. You don’t have to intervene, just see the results once complete, which dry quickly.

Unlike some hybrid cleaners, this robot does not require pad swapping or extra setup to switch between vacuuming and mopping. It handles both tasks at once, adapting automatically depending on the surface beneath it. There’s also a cleaning solution which is poppped into the base unit, meaning the mop isn’t just using clean water to sort your floors – although this is a piece of kit which is proprietary on the E25 (althought interestingly not on the E28, where you can bring your own suds), and therefore needs to be purchased every few months.

Reliable, powerful vacuuming

When it switches to vacuum mode, the E25 proves itself again. The 20,000Pa suction is no idle spec-sheet number. On low-pile carpet, it pulls up fine dust that traditional vacuums can miss. Crumbs, lint, pet hair and debris lift easily.

The robot adapts as it moves. On carpet, suction intensifies. On hard flooring, it reduces for longer battery life. Transitions are seamless. You can see it climb from a rug onto tile in one of the images, pausing briefly before gliding forward.

Hair tangle is minimal. The DuoSpiral brushes feed everything cleanly into the suction chamber. After multiple daily cleans, I checked for build-up and found next to nothing. The CornerRover side arm sweeps along skirting boards and corners, reaching areas other robots often miss.

Cleaning noise is impressively low. The E25 emits a steady hum during operation, similar to a desk fan. The sound is probably closest to gentle airflow or one of those white noise machines for sleep – tending to not fluctuate in pitch too often, and making it easy to share a room with.

The dock, however, is louder. Significantly louder. Rinsing the mop is a little bit noisy, but emptying debris creates a noticeable burst of air not too dissimilar to a turbine or a particularly unruly console fan during a hard session – due to the sheer amount of suction it uses to extract rubbish from the E25. It doesn’t last long, but it does stand out and might cause the odd bit of worry to kids or animals nearby.

As mentioned, scheduling those cycles outside of rest hours keeps everything running smoothly, and thankfully the E25 has no shortage of alerts, punctuated by digital speech in one of many languages, letting you know exactly what it’s up to. Out of the home or on the move, these are also relayed to you via notifications on the app.

If you find it isn’t pulling the dirt from the unit into the base or your bin is looking a little empty, check the app. I once discovered that a cleaning duration setting was active, meaning that it was meant to empty every thirty minutes, but never did so because every clean lasted only twenty.

Another time, the cleaning duration hadn’t been set long enough to complete the mapped area. A bit of a learning curve, but the app makes adjustments both big and small quite easy.

Everyday intelligence

The E25 handles navigation well. It turns with purpose, avoids obstacles, and adapts as it moves from hard floor to carpet. Sensors prevent it from tumbling down stairs, although it did peer a little too far over one time during mapping orientation and became quite stuck.

A subtle but impressive feature is how the robot aligns itself with the dock. As it approaches, a soft light projects from the unit to help it locate and reverse cleanly into position. This glow only appears during the final seconds of docking and gives the whole process a sense of machine-level elegance. Once docked, charging begins automatically.

You’ll also notice the small label on the front of the vacuum: AI.See. This is Eufy’s onboard camera-based object recognition system, which enables the E25 to identify and navigate around obstacles like socks, cables and pet mess with improved precision.

It doesn’t offer full object labelling or voice warnings like the S1 Pro, but it’s effective at keeping things moving in real homes without manual rescues.

Battery life is solid. In vacuum-only mode, the E25 runs for up to 3 and a half hours. With both vacuum and mop functions active, the runtime averages around 2 hours. When power runs low mid-session, the robot returns to the dock, recharges, and resumes from where it left off. A full recharge typically takes just over three hours.

Maintenance and usage tracking are also well covered. The Eufy app tracks the lifespan of consumables like the dust bag, filter, mop roller and brushes. You can see exactly how many hours or cycles remain, with reminders when replacements are due. The app estimates each 3-litre dust bag lasts about 75 days, depending on usage.

After my first few cleans, I received a offer out of the blue from Eufy: three replacement dust bags worth £15 for just £1, delivered free. That kind of aftercare turns a good product into a reliable household partner.

One area that surprised me was the master bedroom. The carpet is deep black – something my old Roomba always misread as a drop-off, refusing to cross it.

That model relied on infrared sensors, which struggle with dark fibres due to their low reflectivity. The Eufy E25 had no such hesitation, as its LiDAR and AI.See camera handled the space confidently, navigating the room without error or false alarms. For the first time in years, that carpet gets a full clean without workarounds or lugging the vacuum upstairs – bonus points here!

Support that sets a standard

A few days into use, I received another message from Eufy. They were aware that some early units had a mop reservoir design that could leak slightly into the floor of the base unit, and a replacement was already on its way. I hadn’t contacted support – they reached out first.

The replacement (left in the image below) arrived within the week. It slotted into place easily and resolved the issue – and that kind of proactive service is rare and a deeply appreciated gesture, reflective of a company that wants its products to keep delivering long after the sale.

Pricing and value

In the UK, the Eufy E25 currently retails for £849 on the official Eufy website.

Promotions on Amazon or Eufy’s own store can drop this as low as £719, depending on the timing and bundle. The official Eufy store regularly provides new customer codes, while students and seniors can access additional percentage-based discounts.

It is a significant investment, but for this you’re getting a cleaner that vacuums and mops simultaneously, empties itself, washes and dries its own mop, maps multi-floor layouts, and works with your schedule. It does all of that quietly, reliably, and with almost no input required after setup.

In the photos, the E25 moves between flooring types without pause. It understands thresholds and adapts instantly. Docked, it rests clean and ready. The routines run quietly. The home stays clean. You stop thinking about the floors, and that alone feels like you’re living in the future!

Final verdict

The Eufy E25 is a genuine leap forward in smart home cleaning. From its powerful vacuuming and thorough mopping to the thoughtful software and low-maintenance design, everything works as it should – and often better than expected.

This cleaning robot seamlessly integrates into daily life with consistent, swift self-care, meaning one less thing to think about as long as your floors are relatively clear – and if they are, it navigates its way around.

The app provides clear oversight of scheduling and requirements to sort out multiple rooms in the home, without meddling or micromanagement. The E25’s robust build quality is entirely reflective of the cost, inspiring confidence in its ability to last another ten years for me, as well as becoming a common conversation starter for visitors – Eufy’s base station is hard to ignore!

For anyone ready to retire the Dyson and go fully automatic, the E25 is a complete and capable cleaning replacement – reliable, intelligent and quietly impressive in all the ways that matter.

Craig Peterson

The post CRISP. Tech – Eufy E25 Review: The Best Vacuum Cleaner You’ll (Almost) Never Touch appeared first on CRISP..

Byron Simpson

The post EE Turns Half-Term Chaos Into Entertainment With ‘The Circus’ appeared first on CRISP..

XGIMI, the trailblazer in compact yet high-quality smart projectors, is back with a bang! We previously reviewed the smaller XGIMI MoGo 2 and we’re so impressed with the power it threw out for it’s for its size, so it comes as no surprise that the Horizon Ultra had us excited.

Meet the XGIMI Horizon Ultra, The worlds first 4K Long-Throw and the newest 4K gem in their projector lineup, now spiced up with Dolby Vision allowing you to dive into a world of cinematic wonder from the comfort of your home.

Setup

Setting up the Xgimi Horizon Ultra was a breeze. The on-screen instructions were clear and intuitive, and the included remote control simplifies navigation. It offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and wireless screen mirroring, making it compatible with a wide range of devices.

One of the setup features we’d have liked to have seen is having the option of memory settings based on your inputs. At times we were moving the projector around quite often having to setup our ideal keystones, throw length and colour settings again when plugging everything back in.

Design

This isn’t your average projector; its premium feel and choice of materials definitely separate it from the rest in the price category that can still have plastic finishing.

It’s a sleek tech marvel that’ll look good even when it’s not beaming movie magic and the party trick on the the motorized lens cover adds a touch of sophistication, protecting the lens when it’s not in action.

The Xgimi Horizon Ultra boasts a sleek and compact design that blends seamlessly into any home decor. Its build quality feels solid.

Dubbed “Misty Gold”, there’s something that just works on this 70’s inspired colourway. It shouldn’t look as nice as it does in any living room, but it does. In every living room. Perhaps that is because of the Fabric mask coverings on the front screen, the subtle Harman/Kardon partnership branding or our favourite, the genuine Nappa tumbled leather. The Aesthetics are just straight-up gorgeous.

This projector can grace your table or rock a tripod, giving you more flexibility than ever. Plus, the ports at the rear offer everything you need, including two HDMI 2.1 ports for high-quality sound and visuals.

The cherry on top is the minimalist Bluetooth remote control, a breeze to navigate, and it even has a built-in microphone for all your voice-controlled needs.

Features

Brimming with Intelligent Screen Adaptation (ISA3) technology, the XGIMI Horizon Ultra is no slouch. It comes with autofocus, keystone correction, and even obstacle avoidance (which you can turn off). With an optical zoom in the mix, this projector adapts like a chameleon, no digital tweaking is necessary if you have the right projector setup.

We did find from time to time it was harder for the Projector to learn the dimensions for Keystone based on the surface such as an outdoor screen, but Autofocus was a breeze.

The inclusion of Android TV 11 gives you a bold and beautiful interface for your grand cinematic adventures straight out of the box. It’s just a little hiccup – Netflix isn’t officially certified for projectors, but who needs it when you’ve got all the other streaming giants at your beck and call?

All in all the Horizon Ultra is stacked with all the features you’d want in a domestic setting and it was difficult to think of anything else you’d want to make it perfect.

Performance

The 4K resolution on the Xgimi Horizon Ultra delivers breathtakingly sharp and vibrant visuals. Colours are rich and accurate, and the brightness is more than enough to enjoy a clear image even in moderately lit rooms. The HDR support adds depth and detail to the content, making movies and games come to life like never before.

The brightness really took us by surprise, it’s the first long throw we’ve used outside before sunset that gave us a crystal clear picture making it ideal for those summer viewings and indoors, it also managed to overperform both with natural light in the room and bright room lights, in fact with the lights down you almost need to turn it down a notch.

In terms of sounds, The two 12w built-in Harman Kardon speakers provide above-average audio quality, with clear dialogue and a decent amount of bass. We used it both both as a front and rear projector outside and not once did we need to go over 50% volume from 5 metres away. The projector also supports Bluetooth audio, making it easy to connect external speakers wirelessly.

Gallery

Verdict

Based on other projectors on the market and on performance alone, the Horizon Ultra offers exceptional value for the quality and features it provides. The 4K projection, smart capabilities, and ease of use make it worth every penny for a premium home cinema experience.

Add in what XGIMI have done in terms of design and it makes it one of the best bits of tech we’ve used in 2023.

In summary, the Xgimi Horizon Ultra 4K Projector has exceeded my expectations in every aspect. It’s a fantastic addition to any home theatre setup, providing incredible visuals, easy setup, and a wealth of smart features. If you’re looking to elevate your entertainment experience, this projector is an excellent choice.

HORIZON Ultra

£1,749.00

BUY NOW

Xgimi.com

Carmen Adkins

The post XGIMI Horizon Ultra 4K Projector Review appeared first on CRISP..

Through testing, OnePlus found that the best position for gaming antennas is between the user’s forefingers when the phone is held sideways. This space was previously occupied by the Alert Slider on the OnePlus 11. By moving the Alert Slider to the other side, OnePlus 12 can accommodate better gaming antennas.

However, this move presented a challenge: ensuring optimal antenna signal strength on the same side of the phone. OnePlus tackled this issue by using cutting-edge antenna technology. This minimised the space occupied by the Alert Slider, striking a balance between better antenna signal performance and the presence of the Alert Slider.

According to OnePlus’ lab test data, this resulted in an improvement in the gaming antenna signal as well as a reduction in-game latency.

The OnePlus 12 also introduces a new colour: Flowy Emerald. This design is said to be inspired by the untamed beauty of nature, specifically New Zealand’s Dart River.

The design team embarked on a journey there, immersing themselves in its captivating wonders. The fluid pattern of the braided rivers served as the inspiration for the OnePlus 12 design.

To capture the beauty of the braided river, the design team also used the OnePlus 12’s camera, employing the latest technology to imprint it onto the anti-glare glass surface of the device.

The result is a meticulously crafted texture that perfectly replicates the interwoven strands of the river directly onto the phone, breathing vibrant life into the device and blending it with Oneplus’ cutting-edge technology.

The OnePlus 12 is certainly shaping up to be a testament to challenging conventional design concepts, all that’s left is to find out when the device lands on British shores – the wait can’t be long now.

Carmen Adkins

The post OnePlus 12 Design Breaks Cover, Promises Nature Inspired Looks and Performance Boost appeared first on CRISP..

Since its inception in 1928, Motorola has been a trailblazer in technology. Among its iconic milestones, the Apollo 11 moon landing stands out as a testament to Motorola’s pioneering radio equipment, enabling the historic earth-to-moon communications that transmitted Neil Armstrong’s iconic words: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Fast-forwarding to the early 2000s, the birth of the razr V3 revolutionized cellphone design. Its vibrant colors, sleek clamshell design, and ultra-thin profile swiftly transformed it into a global fashion symbol.

Building on this legacy, Motorola has unleashed the latest evolution of the razr series. The motorola razr 40 ultra, a reimagination of the foldable form with the largest external display in the foldable smartphone realm.

Expanding its horizons, Motorola’s Edge family has set new standards. In the past year, it introduced some of the slimmest smartphones to date, unveiled an industry-first 200MP main camera sensor, forged an exclusive global partnership with PANTONE™, and introduced fresh device finishes, including the innovative use of vegan leather.

The Edge family continuously pushes boundaries, reshaping the smartphone landscape in appearance, tactile experience, and capabilities.

What’s next for Motorola?

While embracing its rich history, Motorola remains steadfastly focused on the present and future. Noteworthy advancements include bespoke business edition devices like the Lenovo ThinkPhone by Motorola, leveraging the expertise of Lenovo’s esteemed PC sub-brands such as ThinkPad.

The lineup extends to modern ThinkBook laptops tailored for SMBs, premium Yoga PCs catering to consumers and creators, and the boundary-pushing gaming realm under Lenovo Legion, catering to the most avid gaming enthusiasts.

It’s fair to say we’ll be watching this space.

Max Boker

The post Motorola Celebrates 95th Anniversary appeared first on CRISP..

Sennheiser is clearly a name needing little introduction in the audio world, with the German manufacturer delivering high-quality headphones for close to a century. 

Fast-forwarding to the present day, the Momentum series has been one of its leading lines of cans, offering a premium aural experience at a competitive price point.

The latest iteration, the Momentum 4 Wireless, aims to continue the legacy of delivering superb sound quality, comfort and features in a premium wireless over-ear headphone design.

Given the steep current competition from the likes of Sony, Bose and Apple, how do they fare? More importantly, are they worth the asking price of a hair under £310?

I spent some time listening closely with – and to – the Momentum 4 Wireless to find out.

Design and comfort

The first thing you’ll notice about the Momentum 4 Wireless is that they are a departure from the near-iconic aesthetic of Sennheiser’s Momentum 3. 

Those distinctive – almost utilitarian – metal sliders, leather headbands and oval ear cups give way to a merger of metal and plastic which sees it visually fit in far more with its competition.

The Momentum 4 Wireless has a more minimalist and understated appearance, swathed in matte tones (of either black, white or denim blue) and a fabric finish, a thickly padded headband, and round – yet flattened – ear cups.

Definitely a divisive move that results in a pair of headphones from Sennheiser which look equal parts stylish and similar…but certainly less of an audiophile and more like a contemporary style statement wearing these.

The good news is that these changes not only do not compromise the sound experience in the slightest but also bring improvements when it comes to comfort.

Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless are incredibly comfortable to wear, thanks to their lightweight (only 293g, a 10-gram saving over its predecessor, but a good 40 grams heavier than Bose’s new QuietComfort Ultras), soft memory foam ear pads, and easily adjustable headband. 

Fit is reassuringly secure, and whilst turning on the active noise cancellation (ANC) certainly caused a sensation of ear pressure that can occur with premium headsets, it very effectively shuts out noise (more on this later).

The ear cups have touch-sensitive controls that allow you to play/pause, skip tracks, adjust volume, activate voice assistants and toggle ANC and transparency modes.

 The controls are responsive and intuitive, stretching as far as even enabling two-finger gestures to access some of the latter noise-cancelling related settings – initially a lot of directional gestures to take in, but the reassuring recognition of these movements makes them quickly second nature on the Momentum 4s.

Further customisation is also offered on the dedicated Sennheiser Smart Control app, which also allows for firmware updates when connected to your mobile. 

The right ear cup also houses a power button, a USB-C charging port, and a 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening, whilst the headphones also automatically pause music upon removal – not necessarily a bullet point, but only a recent addition to Bose headphones, so a welcome addition here.

The ear cups have hinges that enable the Momentum 4’s to fold flat – although not in on themselves – for easy storage. 

The Momentum 4 Wireless also comes with a practical hard case, USB-C, and 3.5mm cables.

Features and battery life

The Momentum 4 Wireless has a lot of features to offer, starting with their excellent ANC. The headphones use four microphones to analyse and cancel out ambient noise, and they do a very good job of it. 

Whether you’re in a busy street, a noisy office or a quiet bedroom, the Momentum 4 Wireless can create a peaceful and immersive listening environment for you, cutting through the din of daily life.

One interesting aspect of the noise canceling is that it’s not necessarily at discrete levels – although those exist – but rather entirely customisable in terms of how much you wish to tune out the world, using either the app or direct touch controls to manipulate. You can adjust the ANC intensity manually using a slider in the app, which I’d definitely suggest tweaking to your tastes as the initial feeling was fairly strong.

The headphones also have a ‘transparency’ mode that lets you hear your surroundings without taking them off, incredibly useful for when you need to have a conversation, as well as maintaining all-important awareness of one’s environment.

Another feature of the Momentum 4 Wireless is its support for voice assistants, such as Google Assistant, Apple’s Siri, Alexa and Samsung’s Bixby – all of whom work with minimal effort or issue. 

You can access them by tapping and holding the right ear cup, or by saying the wake word (for Alexa only). 

The voice assistants work well, thanks to the clear microphones and the stable Bluetooth 5.2 connection. You can also use the headphones for making and taking calls, and the call quality is both crisp and customisable in terms of even the ability to hear your own voice, thanks to Sidetone.

It stops that sometimes weird muted sensation of not being able to hear oneself whilst on calls and using noise cancellation, but can’t say it’s entirely natural to hear your own voice piped back into your ears either…but it’s a welcome option!

One of the most impressive features of the Momentum 4 Wireless is its battery life. The headphones can last up to 60 hours on a single charge, which is simply phenomenal for wireless headphones in general, let alone those offering such comprehensive noise cancelling options. Even with ANC on, they can still last up to 40 hours, which is more than enough for most users. 

And if you do run out of juice, you can get a frankly astounding 10 hours of playback from a quick 15-minute charge, thanks to the fast-charging technology.

The headphones also have a Tile tracker built-in, which means you can locate them using the Tile app on your smartphone. This is handy for when you misplace them or leave them behind somewhere. You can also use the app to ring the headphones, see their last known location, and mark them as lost – nothing short of a phenomenal feature.

Sound quality

Of course, the most important feature of any headphones is their sound quality, and the Momentum 4 Wireless does not disappoint in this regard. The headphones deliver a balanced, neutral and musical sound that is faithful to the original recording, but also engaging and enjoyable to listen to.

The headphones have a dynamic 40mm driver in each ear cup, and they support high-resolution audio codecs such as aptX, aptX HD, AAC and SBC. They also have an equaliser in the app that lets you tweak the sound to your liking, or choose from some presets.

The bass is tight, punchy and well-controlled, without being overpowering or boomy. The mids are clear, detailed and natural, with good vocal presence and tonality. The highs are crisp, smooth and airy, without being harsh or sibilant. The soundstage is wide, spacious and immersive, with good separation and imaging.

The Momentum 4 Wireless can handle any genre of music, from rock to jazz, from pop to classical, from hip-hop to EDM. They can also deliver a cinematic experience for movies and games, thanks to their excellent sound quality and ANC. Whether you’re listening to a quiet acoustic track or a loud action scene, the Momentum 4 Wireless can reproduce it faithfully and convincingly.

The noise cancelling itself is a hair short of that found in flagship competitors – a side-by-side test on the particularly audible Metropolitan Line found that underlying sounds weren’t quite as dampened in Senheisser’s effort than that of the latest Bose headset, but when considering the price difference as well as the ridiculous battery life, it’s a far closer run thing with all aspects considered.

Verdict

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless are nothing less than a sonic triumph. They offer a balanced, neutral and warm sound that is hard to beat at this price range. They also have a best-in-class battery life, a suite of impressive customisation features and a comfortable fit. 

The only downside is their uniform design, which might not appeal to fans of previous iterations. But if you can look past that, you’ll find a pair of headphones that are more than worth your money.

Max Boker

The post Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones review appeared first on CRISP..

GoPro has once again pushed the boundaries of action camera technology with its latest flagship release, the HERO12 Black. Priced at £399.99.

This remarkable device builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, offering users an array of groundbreaking features designed to redefine the way we capture and relive our favourite experiences. Let’s dive into the details and explore why the HERO12 Black is generating so much excitement.

Extended Runtimes: Powering Your Adventures

One of the most significant enhancements in the HERO12 Black is its redesigned power management system, which allows for up to 2x longer runtimes. Users can now enjoy 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K60, over 95 minutes at 5.3K30, and more than 155 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p30—all while benefiting from the impressive HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization feature.

Stunning High Dynamic Range (HDR) Video

The HERO12 Black delivers astonishing high dynamic range (HDR) video in market-leading 5.3K and 4K resolution. This means you can capture your adventures with unparalleled clarity and vibrant colours, ensuring your footage stands out from the crowd.

Max Lens Mod 2.0: Expanding Horizons

GoPro has introduced the Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory, offering an expansive 177° field of view at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second. With three field-of-view settings—Max Wide, Max SuperView, and the all-new Max HyperView—users can explore perspectives that are 36% wider when capturing widescreen video and 48% taller for vertical video. This accessory also boasts 2x more scratch-resistant glass and a hydrophobic lens coating that repels water drops.

Wireless Audio Support and GP-Log with LUTs

The HERO12 Black supports wireless audio from Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth® audio devices. This feature is perfect for vlogging, scene narration, and issuing voice commands to control your camera from a distance. Additionally, the GP-Log feature, combined with available Look-Up Tables (LUTs), empowers professional users with greater control over post-production editing and colour grading.

Revolutionary Quik Desktop App

GoPro is enhancing the software experience for its users with the launch of the Quik desktop app, exclusively available to GoPro subscribers at no additional cost. This desktop counterpart to the mobile app provides advanced editing features that take full advantage of a computer’s processing power and screen size. Seamless syncing between Quik desktop and the mobile app ensures a smooth editing workflow.

User-Friendly Interface

For those seeking convenience and control, the HERO12 Black offers an updated user interface. It includes simplified controls and introduces a new Vertical Capture Mode, enabling the capture of vertical 9:16 aspect ratio videos while the camera is mounted horizontally—perfect for sharing content on vertically-oriented social channels.

Availability and Pricing

The HERO12 Black is available for pre-order on GoPro.com at £399.99, and the Max Lens Mod 2.0 can be purchased for £99.99 (or £79.99 for GoPro subscribers). Both products will hit stores worldwide on September 13, 2023. Additionally, a HERO12 Black Creator Edition will be available for £599.99. To learn more about these exciting products, visit GoPro’s official website.

Conclusion: A New Era in Action Cameras

With extended runtimes, stunning HDR video, innovative accessories, and user-friendly features, the HERO12 Black promises to revolutionize the way we capture life’s most memorable moments. Get ready to elevate your storytelling with this versatile, feature-rich, and fun action camera.

Carmen Adkins

The post GoPro HERO12 Black: Unveiling the Ultimate Action Camera appeared first on CRISP..

The MoGo 2 Pro is the latest projector from XGIMI designed purely with portability in mind. Now with the release of its Multi-angle stand, the MoGo 2 Pro adds an element of beautiful design making the projector one of the coolest bits of tech we’ve seen this year.

Featuring a bright 400 ISO lumens, built-in surround sound speakers, and upgraded Intelligent Screen adaption which XGIMI dub “ISA 2.0 technology”, the overall package makes it a serious bit of kit if you want to take your cinematic viewing to the next level and try something different from time to time.

Unboxing

In the box:

• Mogo 2 Pro Projector
• USB C charger
• Remote Control
• Netflix Installation Guide
• Velcro Cable Tidy

Design

When you first take the MoGo 2 Pro out of the box, the eagle-eyed tech enthusiasts might see that it resembles a certain popular wifi speaker out on the market right and in our opinion that’s definitely not a bad characteristic as this speaker can actually double up as a Bluetooth speaker when not being used to light up your walls.

Weighing in at 1kg (3 if you add the stand) the MoGo 2 Pro has a very premium and heavy feel and none of this projector feels plasticky.

Almost all of the speaker is covered in a metal casing which covers the lens and the pair of 8W speakers and only the back of the projector is reserved for the inputs which give the MoGo 2 Pro a very sleek and clean look that won’t look garish or out of place in any room.

The back of the Mogo 2 Pro has a USB input to power it up with the wall charger supplied but it can also be powered via a portable battery back if you’re ever out on the move.

You also get 1xHDMI in, a 3.5mm audio jack and a USB port. Being a portable projector this is probably all you’ll need to get by as you can still plug in external firesticks/consoles or other devices if needs be.

There is only one touch control on this device and that is the power button on top. It would have been great to be able to control volume/sources on it also so it’s definitely worth keeping that remote safe and in sight at all times.

The Stand

The multi-angle stand is an exceptional accessory designed to enhance your experience with projectors from the MoGo and Halo series. Its Dark Slate Grey aluminium alloy construction provides both durability and an aesthetic appeal that complements your projector setup.

Supporting projectors weighing up to 2 kilograms, this stand offers a reliable platform for your projection needs. With its impressive tilt range of plus-minus 120° so it presents a unique solution for those who lack a white wall for projection. Yes, we’re talking about the ceiling! Transform your ceiling into a captivating screen and enjoy an immersive viewing experience like never before.

Weighing a mere 0.6 kilograms, Its compact and portable design allows for easy transportation, making it a hassle-free companion for on-the-go projection setups. Whether you’re heading to a friend’s place or preparing for a business presentation, this stand is quick to pack and ready to join you on any adventure.

It seamlessly integrates into any room, effortlessly blending with your decor. Its compact dimensions ensure minimal space occupancy, making it ideal for small flats where efficient space utilization is paramount. Furthermore, when not in use, the stand can be conveniently stored without taking up excessive room.

Features

ISA 2

Xgimi’s new Intelligent Screen Adaption is very trick it has up its sleeve. ISA 2 technology empowers you to effortlessly achieve optimal projection quality with minimal manual adjustments.

ISA 2 has automatic focus and keystone correction technology, so setting up your projector has never been easier. Simply place it on a flat surface, point it at the screen, and let it take care of the rest. This innovative feature ensures hassle-free installation, saving you time and effort.

Whilst it was always 100% accurate the UI does allow for manual correction using the remote too to get your screen just perfect.

Intelligent Tools

The Mogo 2 Pro also features Intelligent Obstacle avoidance, Intelligent Screen Alignment and Intelligent Eye protection. Whilst these are all nice to-haves rather than must-haves they’re all pretty cool features that actually work intelligently and also have the added feature of being able to be switched off if needed.

Google

One of the standout features of the Mogo Pro 2 is that XGIMI have included Android 11 right out of the box. Once you’re logged into your G-account you’ll be streaming from all of your favourite platforms such as Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime and Youtube in just a few clicks.

Not only that, the Mogo 2 Pro also has Chromecast built-in so if you wanted to skip all of the above you still have the option to cast over your favourite media straight to the device and have it pop up on the big screen and share the opportunity to do so with your friends and family.

Gallery

Price and Verdict

Overall we were extremely impressed with the MoGo 2 Pro and the Multi-Angle Stand.

This remarkable device redefines the setup experience with its advanced automation capabilities, surpassing all expectations. Enjoy effortless focus and keystone adjustments, as well as obstacle avoidance, all taken care of automatically.

In addition to its impressive automation features, the XGIMI Mogo 2 Pro offers a convenient solution for accessing all of your favourite apps via the Android 11 UX and both the sound and picture quality we’re brilliant given the size of the projector itself.

The Multi-angle stand is a beautifully designed addition to the MoGo 2 Pro and they both work harmoniously together in terms of their ergonomics and functionality.

The Projector retails at £529 whilst the stand comes in at £79.99 however XGIMI is offering a discount of £20 if you pair the both together.

Both the MoGo 2 Pro and Multi-angle stand are available to buy from XGIMI and Amazon.

MoGo 2 Pro

$599.00

BUY NOW

Xgimi.com

- Hollywood-Standard Visuals: With 400 ISO lumens and integrated D65 color temperature
- Seamless Setup, Smart Projecting in a Snap
- ISA 2.0 technology ensures you never miss a moment of your favorite movies, TV shows, or games.
- 8W Speakers with Dolby Audio
- Smooth Android TV 11.0 and 3D Movies at Home: Decodes 4K video seamlessly and supports 3D content
- Movies on the Go: Easily connect MoGo 2 Pro to your power bank

Carmen Adkins

The post XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Projector + Stand Review appeared first on CRISP..

The Honor brand shouldn’t come as a surprise to the UK audience, The mobile manufacturer formerly owned by Huawei has been operating over here for quite some time but it’s fair to say their marketing strategy has somewhat changed over the years.

Aimed at the borderline between millennial and gen-Z previous Honor devices had a mid to low-tier price point where Huawei would occupy the premium end. Huawei has since taken a step back due to security and political concerns but the Honor brand has continued to trade and is now back with the Honor 70 to reinvent itself as a serious player in the market.

Design

For those familiar with Huawei devices, you wouldn’t need to be eagle-eyed to notice some similarities in the design of the Honor 70 and that is not a bad thing. Huawei used to make some of the most stunning handsets on the market and the Honor 70 follows suit. Holding this device in your hand feels and looks mega premium although this is very much placed in the mid-tier price range.

Its tall and slim build makes it both easy to hold and but at the same time feels very balanced. The large 6.67″ inch display gives it a great visual experience but because it is covered in a thin body coming in at less than 8mm it doesn’t feel like its dominating your pockets either, in fact, you can hardly feel it’s even there.

The screen itself is a 1080×2400 OLED FHD+ display which gives off bright and vibrant colours and crystal clear pixel density no matter what the size of your text is. The screen features a small punch-hole for the front-facing camera to make the most of the real estate and if you wanted to use a fingerprint for security then this is embedded underneath. At 120hz all of the menus scroll really smoothly but the best part of the screen itself, however, is that Honor opted for the waterfall curved display which really gives it a premium look and design.

On the back, you’ll find a nice gloss finish, which still holds the remnants of a fingerprint but not anywhere near other devices with a similar finish. The 2 camera modules house all three cameras and the flash and even though they’re not any more garish than any other phone with the same or similar setup.

Around the device, you’ll find a volume rocker and power button on the side with the sim tray which can hold a dual-sim located on the bottom next to the USB-Charging port.

Functionality

Underneath the hood of the Honor 70 sits a Qualcomm Snapdragon 778 processor which is also 5G ready straight out of the box.

This chipset at this price is more than enough to get you through your day-to-day tasks even if you’re phone is bloated with unused open apps and would be able to tackle high process-driven tasks like gaming.

Maybe due to its form factor or size, were unsure but Honor has also managed to squeeze a 4800mah battery into the Honor 70 which is superb when coupled with the Snapdragon. With light use, the Handset was still sitting on 60% battery after 24 hours.

The device also comes with a mammoth 66W charger that enables Honor Supercharge can give you enough juice to last you a whole day in less than 20 minutes. One of the disappointments however is that it does not support wireless charging.

Like most Android devices it’s not uncommon for manufacturers to overlay their own operating system over the top of stock android and in this case Honor use their own UI called Magic UI 6.

We’re never really massive fans it almost feels like unneeded bloatware but that being said it didn’t really effect performance and unlike Huawei, it does have access to full Android. There is better news too in that Honor will be releasing a new UI which was teased recently and the Honor 70 will be eligible to receive the update over the air.

Gallery

Camera

The camera setup on the Honor 70 definitely surpassed what was expected from a mid-ranger but still could have had added extras if we wanted to be fussy.

The snapper is powered by a Sony IMX800 sensor and along with the Honor image engine, puts out some very clear and vibrant look photos.

The camera module is a 3-camera set up which includes a 54MP camera as its main shooter, a 50MP for Ultra wide and Macro, and also a 2MP depth camera to support.

In daylight the pictures we’re pretty true to colour although like Huawei devices they did lean towards a high contrast bias but nothing out of the ordinary to make the images look processed.

The main camera gives you the option of 2x optical zoom but we would have loved for this to be 3x as the return on the 10x optical was as clear as others on the market.

We liked that there was very little or almost no quality loss on the ultra-wide set up which was surprisingly detailed.

Macro shooting was one of our standout favourites on the Honor 70 and will no doubt add a whole different dimension to creative photography for those using it to level up their IG feeds.

Camera Samples

Pad 8

Along with the Honor 70, Honor’s latest tablet the Pad 8 no doubt a release that needs to be taken very seriously.

For the price, this 12-inch tablet would and should definitely be considered for those in the market interested in both casual browsing and entertainment and productivity also.

The Pad has a brilliant and vibrant full view display that delivers a 2k resolution and it’s housed by a thin but premium feeling 6.9mm metal unibody making it feel premium in the hand. The bezels are also narrow at 7.2mm meaning you get a great viewing experience.

Like the Honor 70, the pad 8 features Magic UI which works in tandem with one another. Dubbed Multi-smart window you can actually project and use your phone on your tablet without having to switch between the two and it makes sharing files a breeze. This is perfect if you wanted to edit images on one and post them on another.

Because of the large 12inch screen, Honor has also added another feature called Smart Multi Window which allows the use of up to 4 windows on one screen to boost productivity and Multi-task.

Whilst the Tab 8 does have Bluetooth 5.1 it did come as a surprise that Honor chose to omit the headphone jack which is incredibly useful for younger children and also the option to include additional storage. Whilst, not a make-or-break they are definitely nice to have.

Both the front and rear cameras do a decent job albeit they’re not groundbreaking compared to smartphones and we would expect many to have a rear camera on any tablet as a daily shooter. The front camera can most definitely hold its own if you did need it for video calls and meetings.

In terms of battery life, the Pad 8 comes with a large 7250mah battery and also supports 22W fast charging which is more than capable of keeping you topped up throughout the day should you find yourself in a pickle.

Verdict

Both the Honor 70 and Pad 8 were a joy to use. Can there be improvements across the board? Absolutely, but it’s important to note we’re not comparing against other premium devices in the market that are almost double in price if not more.

These two products are very much mid-tier with the Honor 70 currently priced at £499 which also includes a pair of Honor wireless earbuds free of charge right now.

The Pad 8 comes in at £249 direct from Honor which means you can actually pick up both devices + Earphones for less than a price of a “premium smartphone”.

The Honor 70 and Pad 8 provide excellent value for money and with further software updates announced they should no doubt be worthy of consideration for anyone in the market on a budget.

HONOR 70

£299.99

BUY NOW

Hihonor.com

Carmen Adkins

The post Honor 70 + Pad 8 Review appeared first on CRISP..