Accessories

Turn your iPad Air 2 into a mini laptop with Belkin QODE

Lory Gil ∙ June 3, 2015

If you prefer the lightweight feel of the iPad Air 2, but wish you could type like you were using your MacBook Air, the best thing you could do for yourself is invest in a good quality keyboard case. Not all cases are alike. A smooth, comfortable typing experience is very important when you need to stay productive.

Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Pro is a fully loaded keyboard case for the iPad Air 2. The hard shell provides protection for your device, while the keyboard design provides a laptop typing experience.

iHome launches smart plug receptacle with HomeKit, pre-orders beginning June 15

Christian Zibreg ∙ June 2, 2015

Among the first wave of HomeKit-certified devices from SmartLinc and Ecobee, which dropped today ahead of Worldwide Developers Conference next week, iHome on Tuesday launched its HomeKit-enabled smart plug receptacle.

The first in iHome Control series of smart home products, the iHome iSP5 SmartPlug not only controls smart home appliances but “dumb” ones like lamps, using Apple's HomeKit. The accessory will be available for pre-order on iHome.com beginning June 15.

HomeKit-enabled $150 Insteon Hub now shipping, hitting retail stores in July

Christian Zibreg ∙ Updated January 28, 2019

Available for pre-order since CES 2015, Insteon said today its hub with support for Apple's HomeKit will begin shipping to retail stores early next month. Dubbed the Insteon Hub, the device can now be ordered at $149.99 through Amazon.com and via SmartHome.com.

Controlling HomeKit-enabled accessories away from home requires a hub in the form of a third-generation Apple TV with Apple TV software 7.0 or later, or a dedicated product like the Insteon Hub.

Ecobee announces HomeKit-enabled, Wi-Fi connected smart thermostat with Siri commands

Christian Zibreg ∙ June 2, 2015

First HomeKit-certified devices are beginning to appear ahead of Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference next week. Tuesday, accessory maker Ecobee announced its smart thermostat for the connected home with HomeKit-certified chips for full compatibility with the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

Soon to replace Ecobee's existing thermostat that has been selling in Apple's retail stores, the refreshed third-generation accessory features Wi-Fi connectivity, compatibility with Apple's HomeKit and integration with Siri so you can control your room's temperature using spoken commands on your iOS device.

Elgato unveils HomeKit-compatible smart devices for the connected home

Christian Zibreg ∙ June 2, 2015

Ahead of Worldwide Developers Conference which kicks off next Monday with a keynote, accessory maker Elgato has launched several smart devices for the connected home built on Apple's HomeKit platform that it previewed at CES 2015. These accessories use Bluetooth Low Energy and a special iOS app so they're battery-friendly and fully controllable through your iPhone.

As first noted by German blog iFun.de, the company's smart home sensor dubbed the Eve, along with other accessories such as the Eve Room, Eve Weather, Door & Window Eve and Eve Energy, can now be pre-ordered from Amazon.com.

These devices make a vision of the HomeKit-enabled connected home a reality by gathering data on air quality, temperature, humidity, air pressure, energy consumption and more.

MXtechnic ultrathin keyboard case for iPhone 6 is a low-cost alternative to on-screen typing

Lory Gil ∙ Updated March 19, 2019

Whether you are trying to win a speed texting contest or writing an article for your blog from your iPhone 6, the on-screen keyboard is not exactly a highly productive feature. To get the most out of your typing experience, you may want to invest in a keyboard case

MXtechnic makes an ultra-thin, slide-out, wireless keyboard case that gives you a more tactile typing experience than the on-screen keyboard on the iPhone 6, and the price tag makes it even more appealing.

Spigen Apple Watch Stand: an elegant and affordable charging solution

Sébastien Page ∙ Updated January 2, 2018

Spigen has been on the forefront of Apple Watch accessories since the device was first available a little over a month ago. The company rapidly came up with a line of cases for Apple Watch, and they also made a stand that represents an affordable yet elegant solution for your desk or night stand.

In a brief review of the Spigen Apple Watch Stand, I'll share with you what I like and don't like about this simple accessory.

The SyncStand is a sleek and stylish charging dock for your iPhone 6

Lory Gil ∙ Updated October 14, 2018

Whether charging your iPhone 6, syncing it with iTunes, or simply gazing longingly into its front-facing camera, you may be in the market for a stand to display your device with. The Sinjimoru Aluminum SyncStand is a sturdy holder for your iPhone 6 that has a sleek design to compliment your Apple product. You don’t have to worry about whether this stand is MFi compatible since you use your own cable for syncing and charging.

AmFilm Premium HD Clear Screen Protector keeps your iPhone 6 scratch-free

Lory Gil ∙ May 23, 2015

While tempered glass screen protectors are definitely becoming a big trend, nothing beats the super inexpensiveness of traditional film protectors. As technology improves, the price decreases exponentially.

TechMatte’s AmFilm screen protector for iPhone 6 protects your screen from scratches and dust with crystal-clear clarity so you see everything the way you are supposed to.

Catalyst Waterproof case protects your iPhone 6 up to 16 feet under water

Lory Gil ∙ May 22, 2015

When I go camping, I tend to leave my iPhone behind. Not because I'm trying to be closer to nature, or unplug from the world, but because I tend to worry about getting dirt, marshmallow goo, ash, or beer on my device. Even if I'm brave enough to bring it to the campsite, I still won't take it anywhere near a body of water.

The Catalyst Waterproof iPhone case eases my fears by having a waterproof rating up to 16.4 feet deep. Plus the lanyard connector means I can secure my iPhone to my body for even more security and protection.

Maxboost Liquid Skin: an ultrathin case for iPhone 6

Lory Gil ∙ May 21, 2015

The iPhone 6 may have the largest screen of any past model, but it is also the thinnest so far. If you prefer keeping your device as thin as possible, while still providing scratch resistance on the back, ultrathin cases are just what you need.

The Maxboost Liquid Skin is an ultrathin case for iPhone 6. It is so slim that the company claims it is the "World's thinnest" iPhone case, but Spigen makes the same claim. What is sure, is that Liquid Skin is practically as thin as paper.

Standalone Apple Watch bands begin hitting select Apple retail stores

Christian Zibreg ∙ Updated March 19, 2019

Standalone bands for the Apple Watch are now available across select brick-and-mortar Apple Stores in the United States, the United Kingdom and possibly elsewhere, according to latest reports.

As reported by Twitter user AppleRadar, an Apple Store in Miami is now carrying the Classic Buckle and the Sport Band in multiple colors, with additional bands likely arriving soon.