In a brand new lifestyle series, Tech Flex, we plan to introduce you to some of the hottest new technology available.
We will cover some of the best tech & gadgets for back to school in this edition. From the highly anticipated iPhone 6 to the hottest tablets for class, alternatives to the postponed Apple Watch, new age Polaroids, and Bluetooth sound devices. We've got you covered for every possible school-related (or perhaps unrelated) need.
If we forget to mention something you're interested in, or would like us to do an article on a particular subject, let us know in the comments below.
Which of these gadgets is a must-have?
Tech Flex
iPhone 6
When it comes to phones, we all know what the hottest device of the season is. The highly anticipated iPhone 6 drops on September 19th and soon to follow is the Apple Watch. If you're afraid the iPhone 6 is all about marketing, rather than good technology, we don't blame you. Just remember, that the cute girl probably feels some type of way when she sees your texts pop up in green instead of the iMessage blue. The iPhone 6 is said to ship with an optional 5.5 inch 1920× 1080 HD display, thinner design & more power with an A8 chip for faster performance. Depending on usage, the battery can last up to 10 hours while you browse with LTE and up to 250 hours on standby. Try to find a good balance.
Meridian
Lenmar Meirdian
Looking to keep your iPhone charged all day, at an affordable price, without sacrificing performance? Look no further than the Lenmar Meridian. This lightweight battery case is now just under 50$ on Amazon.
Sony SmartWatch 2
Sony SmartWatch 2
If you're an iPhone user, you're already familiar with the technology that the Apple Watch promises to deliver. With a variety of smart watches already available for Android devices, which one should you choose? We suggest you check out the Sony SmartWatch2. For under 150$, the device gives you Gmail & phone notifications in real time. However, don't forget to charge it, the watch has a battery life of 3-4 days with typical usage.
LaCie
LaCie USB Key
If you're student, you inevitably need a USB key to survive, but often times they end up getting lost or damaged. By the time midterms roll around, you've spent a small fortune on the cheapest ones they have at the bookstore. Check out the LaCie RuggedKey 3.0. It'll stay super secure on your key chain and even boasts weatherproof technology. The LaCie RuggedKey 3.0 is also ideal for fast file transferring, using USB 3.0.
Speaker
Bluetooth Speaker
Another cool weatherproof piece of tech we've found is the Braven BRV-X. 100$ cheaper than it's competitor -- the Pill from Beats by Dre -- this Bluetooth speaker delivers one hell of a sound. The perfect addition to any student locker or dorm room.
Beats By Dre Powerbeats 2
If you're looking to keep your music to yourself, why not try out the Beats by Dre Powerbeats 2 Wireless headphones? Fun fact -- these headphones were inspired by NBA superstar Lebron James.
Instapix
Fujifilm Instax Mini
When it comes to instant photography, digital isn't the only way to go. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 25 is a great Polaroid-inspired camera for under $100. You still get to see your photos immediately after shooting, and you get a physical copy of them.
Amsung Galaxy Note
Samsung Galaxy Note
When it comes to tablets, you have two choices outside the obvious app-rich iPads currently on the market. The Galaxy Note is great for note-taking in class, and the accompanying pen feels more natural than anything you'll find on the market for the iPad. The tablet comes in many different sizes, which also gives you plenty of price options. On top of taking exceptional notes, these tablets have expandable memory, which means you can buy one with 16GB of storage and a microSD (up to 32GB).
Nvidia
NVIDIA Shield
If you're a gamer, you know that the NVIDIA Shield Tablet comes with an equally comfortable pen as the Samsung Galaxy Note, and an X-box-like controller to enjoy all your favourite games. This is a definite plus when it comes to long breaks between classes.
NES30
NES30 Bluetooth Controller
If you already have a tablet are looking for a fun new way to experience gaming, check out the nostalgic NES30 Bluetooth controller. For $29 you can enjoy all your favorite games on any tablet, phone or computer that supports Bluetooth controllers.