The Nintendo Switch has been capable of Bluetooth connectivity ever since it first released in 2017 and has even used it to connect wireless controllers. However, it wasn't until the recent 13.0.0 update that we could use it with the best wireless headphones as well. This means that the setup process no longer requires a wireless adapter like it did in the past. Just note that your headphones must be compatible with the Switch to work. I'll show you how to do it. I've also included adapter methods in case the Bluetooth connection for your headset of choice doesn't work.

• Via USB-C port: GuliKit Route Air Bluetooth Adapter
• Via headphone jack: TROND 2-in-1 Bluetooth transmitter

How to pair headphones to Switch using Bluetooth

Thanks to the 13.0.0 update, we can now pair our favorite compatible wireless headphones directly to the Switch, Switch Lite, or Switch OLED without needing an adapter. Here's how to do it.

1. Go to Settings
2. Scroll down to Bluetooth Audio.Source: iMore

3. Select Pair Device.
4. Grab your desired headphones and turn on pairing mode.Source: iMore and Rebecca Spear / iMore

5. Place your headphones near your Nintendo Switch.
6. Select your headphones once they appear on the Switch screen.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore and iMore

7. Select OK.

Now you're good to go, cable and dongle free. If you're having issues pairing your headphones, they might not work with the Switch. An adapter might still allow them to function with the console, though. Continue reading to learn how to use them.

How to use Bluetooth headphones with a Nintendo Switch via the USB-C port

This method is no longer the only option. However, if you're having trouble pairing your headphones the other way it's a good method to try. You'll need an adapter with a male USB-C. The one we used for this guide is the GuliKit Route Air Bluetooth Adapter, which included a USB-C to USB adapter for docked mode.

1. Plug the GuliKit Route Air Bluetooth Adapter into the USB-C port found on the bottom of the Nintendo Switch.
2. Turn your Switch on. The GuliKit won't work if the Switch is off or in standby mode.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

3. Hold down either the GuliKit's A or B button for three seconds until the white light blinks quickly beneath it.
4. Follow the individual instructions for your Bluetooth headphones to set them to the pairing status.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

5. Place the headphones and GuliKit near each other until paired.
6. You'll know pairing was successful when the GuliKit's white light becomes constant.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

Now you're all ready to play your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode without worrying about any cables.

One of the perks of going this route is that you can use the dongle to pair wireless headphones in handheld mode and in docked mode. Here's how to connect your Bluetooth headphones to Nintendo Switch when it's docked.

1. Plug the included USB to USB-C adapter into the GuliKit Route Air.
2. Plug the adapter and Route Air into the Switch dock.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

3. Now that the adapter has power, hold down either the A or B button for three seconds until the white light blinks quickly beneath it.
4. Follow the instructions for your Bluetooth headphones to get them to the pairing status.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

5. Place the headphones and GuliKit near each other until paired.
6. You'll know pairing was successful when the GuliKit's white light becomes constant.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

Now you can sit back on your couch and play your favorite Switch games while using your Bluetooth headphones.

How to use Bluetooth headphones with a Nintendo Switch via the headphone jack

For this, you'll need a Bluetooth transmitter with an audio-in jack. The one we used for this guide is the TROND 2-in-1 receiver, which included a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable in the box, so it has everything you need.

1. The Trond 2-in-1 Bluetooth transmitter uses an internal battery, so you'll need to use the included charging cable to get it to a full charge. The light around the power button is red when the battery isn't full and turns off when charged.
2. When fully charged, unplug the Trond transmitter from the charger.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

3. Make sure the switch on the Trond transmitter is on TX mode.
4. Plug the included jack adapter into the TROND 2-in-1 Bluetooth transmitter.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

5. Plug the Trond's AUX cable into the headphone jack on the Nintendo Switch.
6. Hold down the MFB button for three seconds to turn it on.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

7. Double tap the MFB button to activate the pairing mode.
8. Follow the instructions for your Bluetooth headphones to get them to the pairing status.Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

9. Place your headphones, and the adapter near each other and allow them to pair. You'll know that pairing was successful when the transmitter's blue LED stops flashing and remains constant.

With that last step completed, you're ready to play your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode while using your wireless headphones. Just make sure not to accidentally hit or put pressure on the inserted dongle, as this can permanently damage the headphone jack on the Nintendo Switch.

Experiencing an issue with connecting?

First, make sure your headset is properly charged and turned on. This is something we all look over from time to time. If you can connect your headset to another device but not your Switch, it might not be compatible with your console. If you're unsure, contact the adapter's manufacturer to work through the pairing process.

How to pair wireless headphones to Nintendo Switch

There you have it. Now you can play your Nintendo Switch while using Bluetooth headphones. Now you don't have to worry about a cable dangling between yourself and your Switch, and you won't upset anyone around you by forcing them to listen to your game music.

Our top equipment picks

If you plan on transporting your Switch and Bluetooth audio transmitter around, consider getting a protective carrying case with plenty of storage space.

SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset ($100 at Best Buy)

This pair of wireless headphones comes with a USB-C dongle so you can immediately plug it right into your Nintendo Switch and start playing. No extra pairing or setup required, making this choice one of the best wireless headphones for Nintendo Switch. These offer great sound and feature volume controls on the left earphone

SanDisk 128GB microSD Card ($21 at Amazon)

The Nintendo Switch only has 32GB of internal memory, so if you plan on playing more than two AAA games, you're going to want to pick up a memory card. This one has plenty of space, works super efficiently, and is well priced.

Fintie Carrying Case ($24 at Amazon)

This inexpensive carrying case helps protect your Nintendo Switch and accessories. It features 10 game slots and a zippered storage compartment for you to stash your Switch accessories. There are 18 colors and themes to choose from.

Whether it's your brand new iPhone 7 Plus or iPad Pro or your trusty old iPhone 5s or iPad Air, there's a lot you can do to troubleshoot before going to Apple or the manufacturer. Sure, sometimes there's an issue with your headset, speaker, or in-car infotainment system, but often enough it's a software issue that a few simple steps can fix. If so, follow along and we'll get you back up and connected in no time!

Toggle Bluetooth

It's amazing how many problems can be solved simply by turning things off and then back on again.

1. Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen (iPhones with Touch ID) or the top-right corner (iPhones with Face ID) to bring up Control Center.
2. Tap the Bluetooth button to turn BT off.
3. Tap the Bluetooth button again to turn BT back on.

Alternatively, you can perform the same steps but tap the Airplane Mode button to toggle Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular all off and then back on again.

Once you're done, try connecting again. If it works, great. If not, keep reading.

Hard reset

The next thing to try is a hard reset. Make all the "reboot Windows" jokes you want but sometimes bad bits get stuck and need to be flushed out.

• How to hard reset your iPhone

Once your iPhone or iPad has rebooted, try connecting it in again. If it works, you're good. If not, go on to the next step.

Pair different

If you have more than one iOS device available, even if you have to borrow it from a family member, friend, classmate, or coworker, try using it to connect to your Bluetooth accessory. If it works, the problem is with your iOS device and you'll need to keep on troubleshooting.

If a family member, friend, classmate, or coworker has the same Bluetooth accessory as you, it's worth checking to see if their's will work with your iPhone or iPad as well. If it doesn't work, the problem might be with your Bluetooth accessory and you should either take it back (if you can exchange it) or contact the manufacturer for assistance (if you can't exchange it).

If it works, we're back to troubleshooting your device and you're back to reading.

Forget it

If it's not the radio, something might have gone wrong with the setup. Forgetting the device lets you redo that.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap on Bluetooth.
3. Tap on the Info (i) button next to the device you want to forget.

4. Tap on Forget This Device at the top.
5. Tap Forget Device to confirm.

Once you've forgotten the device, follow the directions for your Bluetooth device and reconnect to it. If it works, fantastic. If it doesn't, keep going.

5. Update!

Apple's Bluetooth stack—the set of software that controls the radio—isn't without its occasional quirks. Sometimes brand new versions of iOS introduce compatibility problems and sometimes they fix them. If you're having Bluetooth connectivity problems, however, you're better off upgrading than not. If it's already broke, the update is your chance for a fix.

• How to download and install iOS updates

Once you're done updating, try to connect again. If it works, awesome. If not, repeat step 3, above, to forget and reconnect with the Bluetooth device. If even that doesn't work, there's more to try!

6. Restore with your Mac

If there was no update—or even if there was—restoring your iPhone or iPad using your Mac can sometimes shake loose bad bits that even a hard reset or iCloud restore can't. That's because your Mac offloads your data, restores the operating system, and then reloads you data. Think of it as spring cleaning.

• How to back up your iPhone or iPad on macOS
• How to restore your iPhone or iPad using macOS

When you're all done, try connecting to Bluetooth again. If it works, huzzah. If not, there's one last thing you can try...

7. Reset networks

Resetting is a pain in the butt but if something has gone wrong with the way your iPhone or iPad connects to other devices, sometimes the pain can be healing.

• How to reset your iPhone's network settings

You'll have to reconnect to every Wi-Fi and Bluetooth device you own or use, but once you're done, see if your accessory starts to work. If it does, it was all worth it. If not, let's keep going.

8. Contact Apple

Sometimes a problem really is a problem. Like any electronics, Bluetooth radios and the various connections to them can have problems. If you have AppleCare+, don't walk, run to get it fixed. If you don't, get an estimate and weigh the cost of repair against the cost of upgrading to a new device.

If you don't live close to an Apple Store, you can call 1-800-MY-APPLE in order to set up a mail-in repair. If you don't have AppleCare, you may have to pay for the call, but it's less of a waste than having an iPhone or iPad you can't connect to.

Your fixes?

If you had an iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad that you couldn't connect to your favorite Bluetooth accessory or your car's infotainment system, and one of the above fixes worked for you, let me know! If something else worked, let me know that as well!

Here's a not-so-secret fact about me: I'm awful at remembering where I parked. It's why I own a brightly-colored car that can make noise and flash its lights if I press my key fob — without them, I might as well condemn myself to wander through darkened parking garages for hours.

Thanks to Apple's Parked Car feature in Apple Maps, though, I no longer have to rely on shiny paint or loud noises to help me discover where I left my vehicle: I only have to look at my iPhone or Apple Watch.

• How the Parked Car feature works
• How to turn on the Parked Car feature
• How to find your Parked Car via Siri
• How to find your Parked Car in the Maps app
• How to add information to your Parked Car location
• How to remove your Parked Car location
• What if your car doesn't show up?

How the Parked Car feature works

You don't need Apple's CarPlay to get this feature: As long as your car has a Bluetooth stereo and you own an iPhone 6 or later, you should be able to use the Parked Car feature.

The feature works via Bluetooth Low-Energy pairing: When you turn off your car, it disconnects your iPhone from the car's Bluetooth connection. When that happens, your iPhone automatically makes a note of where the pairing disconnected and adds a Parked Car marker down in that spot.

Once you return to your car and turn it on again, your iPhone removes that marker (until the next time you turn off your vehicle).

How to turn on the Parked Car feature

The Parked Car option should be enabled by default, but just in case it's not showing for you, it's easy to turn it on manually.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap the Maps setting.
3. Scroll to the bottom of the screen.
4. Make sure the Show Parked Location toggle is switched to the On position.

You'll also want to make sure Location Services are enabled.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to Privacy.
3. Go to Location Services.

4. Tap Maps.
5. Choose While Using The App under Allow Location Access.

And that Significant Locations is also enabled:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to Privacy.
3. Go to Location Services.

4. Scroll down, tap System Services.
5. Toggle On Significant Locations.

How to find your Parked Car via Siri

You can find your car from your iPhone or Apple Watch just by asking Siri. Here's how!

1. Trigger Siri by saying "Hey Siri" or by pressing the Digital Crown on Apple Watch.
2. Say, "Where's my car?"
3. Tap the parked car icon to view the Parked Car screen in the Maps app.

How to find your Parked Car in the Maps app

By default, your Parked Car should be the first or second saved entry under the Maps app's Search bar; if it's not, you can tap the Search bar and type in "Parked Car" to view it.

Once you find your Parked Car, you can view a small Maps card that has information about its current location, a button to get directions from your site, the time you last parked there, an option to add notes about where you parked (i.e., a garage level), and an option to snap a photo of where you parked.

How to add information to your Parked Car location

1. Tap the Parked Car marker.
2. Tap the Note or Photo field to add textual or photographic information to your parking location.

3. Tap the Edit Location button to alter your car's spot if the original GPS location is slightly off.

How to remove your Parked Car location

Whether you don't want Maps to show where you parked your car or your location is off enough that it doesn't make sense to have the marker, here's how to remove your site.

1. Tap the Parked Car marker.
2. Swipe up on the Parked Car card.
3. Tap Remove Car.

What if your car doesn't show up?

If you've confirmed that the Parked Car feature is on in Settings along with Location Services, but still can't get your car to show up on the map, you may not have a compatible Bluetooth stereo system.

Most every modern Bluetooth stereo and aftermarket system is compatible, but earlier car models may not work with the Parked Car feature.

Questions?

Let us know in the comments below.

Updated July 2020: Serenity Caldwell wrote a previous version of this post.

Between the Tile Mate and Chipolos Classic, I have to give the edge to the Tile. While you'll probably be happy with either tracker, the Tile has a louder maximum ring volume, is water resistant, and has a battery that will last a solid year. It's range might be a bit shorter than the Chipolo Classic's, but it's still probably long enough to find anything you might have lost inside your home.

If you want color options, a slightly longer range, and don't mind changing the battery a little more often, the Chipolo Classic is still a good tracker.

The breakdown

There's a lot that the Tile Mate and Chipolo Classic have in common. The trackers are around the same size, and owners of either tag can utilize the respective community of Tile or Chipolo owners to find items that they've left behind someplace. But the differences between the two are important to note.

The Chipolo Classic's biggest advantage used to be its range. At 200 ft, Chipolo beats most of the competition by about 100 feet, but with the latest revision to the Tile lineup, that advantage has disappeared, as the Tile now also sports a 200-foot rang. The Classic does still come in more colors, with six available: yellow, red, blue, white, green, and black, so you can get the one that best matches your personal style.

Meanwhile, the Tile Mate's biggest advantages are its battery life and ring volume. When you ring your Tile Mate to try to find it, it's maximum volume is 119 decibels (dB), almost 30 dB louder than the Chipolo (and almost 40dB louder than the previous-generation Mate). It's battery also lasts for a year, and like the Chipolo, that battery is replaceable. The Tile Mate also has an advantage with voice assistants. Like the Chipolo, the Tile Mate is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, but if your iPhone is running iOS 12 or later, it's also compatible with Siri thanks to Shortcuts. You can create a shortcut, complete with a custom activation phrase, to find your lost item using Siri.

While we'd like to see a more robust rating (like those found in past Tiles), the Tile features an IP55 dust and water protection rating. This means that its rated for protection against some dust intrusion, as well as low-power water jets. While you certainly shouldn't submerge your Tile, it's still better protected than the Chipolo if you take your things around water.

These are both great tracking tags, each with their own advantages, but all things considered, the Tile Mate is your best bet. A year of battery life, compatibility with all of the major voice assistants, water resistance, and a louder ring volume all help elevate the Tile Mate above Chipolo's offering. If you want more something more colorful or smaller, then the Chipolos Classic is still a good choice

If you actually lose one of your Tiles, whether it's faulty or has become damaged, you can always replace it within the Tile app. Rather than just adding a new Tile, the replacement unit can take the place of the old unit in the app.

• Get the tracker: Tile Mate ($25 at Tile)
• Download the app: The Tile app (Free on the App Store)
• The iPhone for most people: iPhone 11 ($699 at Apple)

How to replace your Tile

1. Open the Tile app on your iPhone.
2. Tap … on the card for the Tile you wish to replace.
3. Tap More Options.

4. Tap Replace Tile.
5. Tap Continue on the pop-up.

6. Follow the instructions for the normal Tile setup process.

Your new Tile will now take the place of the old one in the app, adopting its name and settings.

What you'll need

When replacing a Tile, you'll need a new one, and you'll need a phone on which to run the app.

The Tile Mate is the Tile tracker that most people should get to keep track of everyday items. Of the three trackers that Tile sells, it's also the least expensive. If you need to quickly grab a replacement tracker, the Tile Mate is a good pick.

The iPhone 11 is the iPhone that most people should get. Available at a much lower price thatn the iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max, the iPhone 11 delivers most of the experience of the more expensive phones in a package that more people can afford. It's available in a wider range of colors, as well, allowing you to find something more to your personal taste than what might be offerd by the Pro phones.

While these might not help you locate your missing item any faster, you'll want a good case to keep your iPhone safe, especially if you're headed out to find something attached to a Tile tracker.

Speck Gemshell iPhone 11 Case ($25 at Amazon)

A case with flexible corners to make it easier to put on and take off, and clear so you can see the color of your iPhone 11.

Totallee Thin iPhone 11 Case ($29 at Totallee)

A thin case that defends against nicks and stratches that comes in a wide variety of colors and styles.

UAG Monarch ($60 at Amazon)

This protective case combines metal and leather wrap your iPhone in a tough, but beautiful, defensive shell.

These days, it seems that Bluetooth speakers are ubiquitous and plentiful. In fact, it's hard to find a Bluetooth speaker that truly stands out from the crowd, and even harder to find one that is multipurpose with other functionalities. But that's exactly what you get with the iHome iBT297, which combines Bluetooth speaker with a color-changing lamp, alarm clock, radio, and it even has some smart home functionality with a touch of a button.

• Small and compact size, pretty big sound
• Lamp has different color modes to cycle through
• Alarm clock functionality works well, stores two alarms
• Smart Button lets you control smart home devices
• Built-in USB port, FM radio has six presets, Siri/Google Now support

• Poor app interface
• Smart Button only controls smart home devices through IFTTT
• Buttons can be hard to press
• Needs to be connected to your smartphone for digital assistant features

It does it all, kind of

iHome iBT297: Features

iHome is known for their home audio products, most of which double as other devices, like clocks and even lamps. The iBT297 was shown off at CES 2019, and it's a fresh take on a multifunction Bluetooth speaker and what they're capable of.

First and foremost, the iBT297 is a Bluetooth speaker. There's a button on the back of the device that connects it to your smartphone of choice, but to get the most out of it, you'll need the iHome Enhance app before pairing. With this app, you'll be able to connect to the speaker, give it a name for easy recognition, and configure all of its settings in one place.

With the Bluetooth speaker part, the iBT297 can be used to play your smartphone's audio, whether it's music, podcasts, audiobooks, videos, or even speakerphone for calls (it glows green when you get incoming calls). The audio quality was pretty good for the price, and despite the small size of the device, it fills a room with sound without issue.

The iBT297 doubles as a lamp, similar to the Philips Hue Go, except it's a full globe shape. There are six color modes: Slow Fade, Fast (like Slow Fade but faster), Single Color (choose a color from the app), Pulse to Music, Sky Gradient, and Lamp. You can cycle through the color modes either by the Color button on the iBT297 itself or through the app. There's also a touch area near the top back of the device that lets you dim the light.

Even though most of us probably use our smartphones as alarm clocks, having a dedicated alarm clock is still nice. The iBT297 has the ability to store two alarms, which you can toggle on or off via the alarm buttons on the clock or through the app. You can set the alarm to weekdays, weekends, every day, or once, and you have multiple tones to choose from, including your own Bluetooth audio or FM radio.

If you prefer to listen to the radio, just press the Mode button until you get to the FM radio. You can then use the plus and minus buttons on the left side of the clock face to scan through the stations and set your presets.

A unique function of the iBT297 is the Smart Button, which is the button underneath the clock face with the iHome logo. You can configure this button in the app to have different functions with either a short or long press. Some of the things that the Smart Button can do are play certain playlists from Apple Music, Spotify, or iHeartRadio. You can also use IFTTT to configure the Smart Button to control lights and thermostats. If you have iHome Control SmartPlugs, then the iBT297 can seamlessly work with them without a workaround.

A fine addition to your bedside table

iHome iBT297: What I Like

As someone who has been looking for a good lamp for my nightstand, I'm very glad I got the iBT297. I truly enjoy the ambient color lighting that the speaker provides, and I especially like the "Pulse to Music" effect. This one, in particular, is fun to watch, and definitely turns your room into a party. However, when music isn't playing, I particularly enjoy Slow Fade, just because I find it so relaxing.

The alarm clock part of the device is also pretty great. I'm the kind of person who may sleep through alarms on my phone, but with the iBT297, the alarm tones are loud, and as I struggle to turn it off, it helps me wake up better than just a smartphone alarm. It's also nice to be able to store two alarms on the device, as all of my previous alarm clocks only could store one, so I had to change it often.

For a Bluetooth speaker, the iBT297 does a pretty good job. It may not pump out high fidelity sound like a HomePod or anything, but the audio doesn't sound distorted and it is loud enough to fill a room without being at max volume. When your phone is connected, you can press the large button on the front with the microphone to activate voice commands or answer incoming calls with the iBT297 acting as a speakerphone.

And finally, I love that this device comes with a USB port in the back that you can use to charge something else. It eliminates the need for additional charging mounts, though you should double check if it works with your device, as sometimes companies like to have proprietary charging.

It does it all but isn't perfect

iHome iBT297: What I Don't Like

While I like the iBT297 overall, there are definitely some parts about it that I'm not too fond of.

For one, the iHome Enhance app that they want you to use is not the best app I've tried out. When I first downloaded it and tried to set it up with my unit, I had to download a firmware update, which seemed to take forever, and I had to leave it on the screen the entire time to make sure that it didn't screw up. This was while I was still in the pairing phase, so it feels like it took forever to get it up and running properly.

Now that I've had the unit for a few weeks, I've noticed that sometimes when I go into the app, it seems like it forgets about my paired device. Therefore, I'll need to wait for it to find it and pair with it again, even though I thought it was paired the entire time. Other reviews of the app also mention disconnecting problems, so it doesn't appear to be just me.

I also feel that the buttons on the device itself can be a bit hard to press, and the fact that they're angled inwards towards the clock face doesn't help much. It's impossible to push the button to turn your alarm off, for example, without holding down the top of the device so it doesn't move around your table. I also wish that the buttons around the clock face would light up because it's hard to see which one you're trying to push.

And the dimmer on the back, while nice, also dims the clock face itself, which I don't understand. I'd prefer the ability to separately dim the lamp and clock face so I could keep the face bright to help me see in the dark.

A pretty good multifunctional Bluetooth speaker

iHome iBT297: The Bottom Line

Aside from the issues with the app and how the buttons are, I've been enjoying the iBT297 quite a lot. It's nice having a colorful lamp on my bedside table that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and a functional, loud alarm clock that actually wakes me up. For me, the pros of this little gadget definitely outweigh the cons.

See at Amazon

The Ultimate Ears Power Up charging dock is designed to work with the Blast, Megablast, Boom 3, and Megaboom 3 speakers and each model takes slightly different times to charge on the Power Up. Here are the approximate full charge (from 0 percent battery power) times for each model using the Power Up:

• Blast: 2.5 hours
• Megablast: 3 hours
• Boom 3: 2.75 hours
• Megaboom 3: 2.75 hours

So no matter what speaker you have, you'll be getting comparable charging times. It's also fairly quick so you can get back out to the party, or whatever you were doing before your Bluetooth speaker died.

Yes. For most people, the Ultimate Ears Power Up is an invaluable accessory that will always keep your speaker charged and ready-to-go.

Much like a wireless charging pad for your phone, this is a much simpler and elegant solution to charging your device. Not only will the Power Up allow you to free up a USB port on your computer, but it also stays stationary, making it easy to set it and forget it. Plus, the Power Up takes up little space on its own. The dock is a small circle measured at 90mm in diameter. It's enough to just charge your speaker and nothing else, so little extra space is required. Its minimal design also ensures it'll blend in with any decor.

While using the Tile app, you'll be able to actively locate your lost item within 300 ft. That's certainly enough to cover most homes, but it's also an excellent range if you're worried about leaving something behind when you're out of doors. Tile Pro is a little more rugged than its Mate and Slim counterparts and is a great choice if you want to keep track of items that you take with your on outdoor excursions.

This also works in the other direction. If you have your Tile-attached object, but can't find your phone, just double-click the Tile button to play a sound on your iPhone, making it much easier to find.

If you leave something with a Tile attached to it behind at another location, you can use the Tile to look up its last known location.

One of the major benefits of owning a Tile is the network of other Tile owners. The large community of users that own one of the tags can become an asset if you ever accidentally leave something behind that has a Tile attached to it.

While the normal range of your Tile Pro is 300 ft, that doesn't just mean 300 ft from you. It's 300 ft from anyone who uses the Tile app. While your item won't show up on their phone, if a person using the Tile app is in range of your Tile-equipped item, the app on their phone will update the location of your item so that the next time you look for it on your own phone, you'll have the most up-to-date information on its whereabouts.

You can also share your Tile Pro with others so that multiple people can actively look for your item if it's lost. That way, if someone you're sharing with finds your item, they'll be able to grab it and return it to you themselves. If you've signed up for Tile's new Premium service, you can actually do this with an infinite number of people

I like to consider myself a bit of an audiophile in that I'm rather particular about my speakers. I have high expectations and am often let down, especially when it comes to speakers and headphones that cost over $100 (I'm frugal as hell too).

I was offered the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 to review and pounced because Ultimate Ears has yet to let me down. Turns out that's just how they roll over there — now watch as I try to write a section on what I don't like about the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 (it's gonna be short!).

• Incredible bass for its size
• Excellent battery life
• Fantastic design
• Customizable EQ

• Magic Button is kind of pointless
• Boom app could be more elegant

Ultimate Ears Boom 3 What I like

Just about everything, to be perfectly honest. I had listened to the Boom 2 and was actually kind of unimpressed with its sound after colleagues had raved about it, so I was eager to try the Boom 3 but apprehensive. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised when I first fired it up and cranked it.

There's no noticeable distortion at high volumes and it has the most balanced sound of any portable Bluetooth speaker I've ever tried. The bass is what got me — I try not to expect too much in a portable speaker, but I always hope for greatness, and the Boom 3 delivers.

The bass is rich and warm without muddying up the rest of the mix, and those highs are crisp and so satisfying. Even at low volumes, where other speakers tend to get pretty muffled and indistinct, the Boom 3 excels wonderfully. I have it playing right now on my desk, next to my keyboard, and it's clean and clear (and under control).

The physical design update is spectacular. I liked the look of the Boom and Boom 2, but they had a sort of unrefined quality to them, which wasn't bad — they just looked more outdoorsy than I liked. The Boom 3 is sophisticated-looking and sleek. The flap for the Micro-USB port folds away seamlessly, and the black tones are more of a lovely charcoal gray that's sexy as hell.

I also love the addition of the charging connector on the bottom, so you can pick up a Power Up dock and charge it wirelessly. That and, if you have multiple Boom and Megaboom speakers, you can use "Partyup" to connect up to 150 of them. I'd love to see 150 Boom speakers going at once. Quick, someone spot me some cash and let's make a YouTube video.

Ultimate Ears Boom 3 What I don't like

There's nothing I straight-up dislike about the Boom 3; there are just a couple things that I'm "meh" about. The new Magic Button is the biggest one: it lets you play/pause and skip tracks, and if you use Apple Music or Deezer (which I don't), you can set up one-touch playlists in the Boom app.

I don't think many people will actually bother, since we're all so used to just controlling our music on our phones, and it's really not an inconvenience at all. Also, the Magic Button lacks the ability to go back a track, since you can only short press to play/pause or double-press to skip. I much prefer when the volume buttons let you go backward or forward, with a separate play/pause button.

The Boom app seems a little dated. The layout isn't altogether intuitive, and it sort of feels a bit clunky. To change volume in the app, you have to tap the volume button, and then tap the big + or - buttons, which just look a little simple for my taste. That being said, you can power the speaker on or off from the app, which is a dynamite feature.

If I had to nitpick one more thing, it'd be the customizable EQ. While it is convenient to be able to tailor the sound to your liking, I find that the Boom 3 is only able to do this, not by adding more of one thing to the mix, but by instead removing others. So if you jack up the bass, then the rest of the mix gets quiet. Turn up the treble, the bass gets removed. I get it, but it just makes sticking with the "Standard" mix all the more prudent. (Luckily, the Standard mix is spot-on.)

Ultimate Ears Boom 3

Coming in $50 less expensive at launch than the Ultimate Ears Boom 2, the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is an absolute no-brainer when it comes to asking whether or not you should buy it. You absolutely should. It's hands-down the best portable Bluetooth speaker I've had the pleasure of using.

With well-balanced sound, and gorgeous design, and a price that belies its quality, I can't gush enough about the Boom 3. Whatever minor shortcomings it may have are diminished entirely by everything it does well — which is damn near everything.

See at Ultimate Ears

While using the Tile app, you'll be able to actively locate your lost item within 150 feet. If you have a Tile attached to something that you misplace regularly, such as your car keys, that should be a long enough range to ping your Tile most places in your home.

This also works in the other direction. If you have your Tile-attached object, but can't find your phone, just double-click the Tile button to play a sound on your iPhone, making it much easier to find.

If you leave something with a Tile attached to it behind at another location, you can use the Tile app to look up its last known location.

One of the major benefits of owning a Tile is the network effect. Tile's large community of users can become an asset if you ever lose something with a Tile attached to it in a place far from home and can't go back to look for it immediately.

While the normal range of your Tile Mate is 150 feet from you, that turns out to be 150 feet from any Tile owner. While the Tile attached to your lost object won't be able to contact you directly, it will be able to update its location for you if and when other Tile users are near it.

If another Tile owner opens the Tile app or has location services always on for the app, they will update the location of your Tile when they pass within range. That Tile user won't be able to see your Tile themselves, but they can prove invaluable to reclaiming your lost item.

You can also make it easier for other people to help you find a misplaced item by sharing your Tile with them. That way, if they find your item, they'll be able to grab it and return it to you themselves.

Very rarely do I go through a day without having some sort of headphones in, on, or around my ears. Whether I'm rocking out to The Police, listening to true crime podcasts, or taking calls on my iPhone and Mac, I am constantly plugged in to some form of audio.

While I don't consider myself a hardcore audiophile, I do know what I like in a set of headphones. So when I got a chance to review the Taotronics TT-BH040, I was really excited to see what the budget active noise cancelling headphones would bring to the table.

Solid preformance

Taotronics TT-BH040: What I like

I like so many things about the Taotronics TT-BH040's that's its hard to pick which aspect I should talk about first, so I'll start with the most obvious one; these headphones sound great! They definitely bump up the bass a little more than some other manufacturers out there, but boy, do they sound clear and consistent through all types of audio. The lows are deep, warm, and powerful, but they never overshadow the high-end tones, whether you're listening to spoken word or the heaviest of metal.

Let's skip to my favorite part of using the TT-BH040's, the battery life. When you're as cheap as I am, and have used as many budget headphones as I have, you learn to carry the necessary charging cables everywhere you go. I have plenty of headphones that only last 6-8 hours on a full charge, which can't even get me through a full workday. When Taotronics said the TT-BH040's have a 30-hour battery life, I was convinced there was no way that number could be right. Not only was the number accurate in my testing, but I got over 30 hours of use using the ANC, which, to put it super casually, is bonkers! Finally, I have the freedom to leave the charging cable at home.

Let's take a second to talk about the ANC. It's the best I've heard on a pair of headphone this cheap...but it still isn't as good as the Bose QC 35's. So, if you're used to the noise reduction that a high-end pair of cans gives you, the TT-BH040's are likely to disappoint.

That being said, I enjoyed slipping on these headphones and tuning out the world as much as possible. Flip that switch, and boom, the loud roar of traffic on the street, becomes but a whisper. The mechanical drone of the AC in your home? Eliminated to nothing more than a gentle hum. It's fantastic to have quality ANC in a pair of headphones that only cost $70 because typically it takes a lot more money to feel like you are in your own little world.

A couple minor issues

Taotronics TT-BH040: What I don't like

I can't say the Taotronics TT-BH040's are perfect, they are a few minor annoyances that come with the cheaper price, and while I don't think any of these flaws are dealbreakers, it's important to know them before you purchase.

Let's start with the buttons located on the rim of the cans. While they certainly have their uses — like changing volume or playing and pausing music — they are a tad bulky and feel kind of cheap. They jet out from the bottom of the cans, making the headphones have a less slim and uniform look.

While I appreciate that Taotronics included a carry case with the TT-BH040's, the headphones don't fold up into a smaller profile like you see with other pairs of a similar size, causing the carry case to actually be rather large. Fitting this into your carry on luggage on a flight may prove to be slightly difficult, especially since the soft carry case also does add much protection.

Think about the money

Taotronics TT-BH040

If you're looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that don't come with a steep cost and still has plenty of upsides, you need to give the Taotronics TT-BH040's a chance. They sound great, feel super comfortable, and the battery life is one of the best I have ever seen in ANC headphones ever.

I can't really think of a better way to spend $70 for most people — the value for the cost is just so slanted in your favor, I'm almost worried the price will go up at some point. The good news is as long as you can grab these for this cheap, it's you the consumer who really wins!

See at Amazon

My love affair with Smart Connector keyboards for my 10.5-inch iPad Pro ended the morning of the WWDC keynote. After months of not being particularly happy with the options, it took literally having to use my MacBook Pro as a stand for my iPad during Apple's presentation for me to look for an alternative option.

I'm happy to say I've found it in Brydge's $129.99 10.5-inch iPad Pro keyboard, the latest hinge-based Bluetooth option from the keyboard company. While Brydge has in the past (and continues to have) reliability issues with its keyboards, the company's new lifetime warranty allows me to feel comfortable recommending them to anyone who wants a superior typing experience on their 10.5-inch Pro. (I docked our official review score from a 4.5/5 must-buy to a 4/5 highly consider in part because of the small risk of a manufacturing defect, but I consider this a 4.5-star keyboard — its company just has a few kinks to work out.)

See at Brydge

Form and function

Like Apple's Smart Keyboard, the Brydge has the same footprint as the 10.5-inch iPad Pro screen. But where the Smart Keyboard is fabric, Brydge's 1.1-pound aluminum base has the weight, feel, and rigidity of a MacBook bottom case. The keys are deeply set and comfortable to press; while they're not completely full-size, they should still be easy to type on for all but the largest-fingered customers.

As someone who frequently switches from the MacBook Pro keyboard to my iPad when writing, the different key sizes and typing feel does put me off-balance a little bit, but not enough to introduce massive typos or slow my typing speed excessively. It feels very similar to typing on a MacBook in many ways, just with more key travel (and properly-set arrow keys).

In addition to a full standard keyboard set, Brydge provides a dedicated Siri button (where the function button sits on a MacBook Pro keyboard) along with a full function row of keys. It may not have an escape key, but it more than makes up for it with access to the Home button, auto-lock functionality, and buttons for keyboard brightness, screen brightness, the software keyboard, music controls, volume controls, and power/Bluetooth toggling for the Brydge itself.

It is, in short, everything I like in a portable keyboard. And, most importantly: It offers the lap stability and multi-angle viewing that no other stand (not even my beloved 9.7-inch Logitech Create) can provide. After using it for a few weeks, I have noticed that the hinge struggles to hold its position a little when at the 145°-160° angle, but I think that's more the physics of balancing the iPad's weight than anything — I haven't had a single sag or drop between 0° and 145°.

That multi-angle stand — achieved by grasping onto the iPad's base with two cushioned feet and hooking them up to 180° hinges — is one of the best things about this keyboard model. Many iPad keyboards have good key feel, but few have a solid base for lap-writing and even fewer do so in a way that provides multiple viewing angles without a gigantic case or extra hardware. Brydge does offer a top case (which hides the back of the hinge grip) but it's a minimalist hard silicone, and not necessary for anything more than fancy looks and base-level protection.

It's also extremely easy to remove when you want to go tablet: The Brydge's silicone grips slide on or off an iPad with little difficulty, but they're still grippy enough that you won't see your tablet ever slide out of its keyboard while in a bag.

Pairing, Typing, & Battery Life

Pairing with the Brydge was surprisingly simple given my sometimes-tumultuous history with Bluetooth keyboards. Turn the keyboard on when your iPad is on and unlocked, press the Bluetooth key, and you'll get a quick pair request; subsequent uses need only a quick press of the keyboard's power button.

The key-press-to-software responsivity is also excellent: When tested alongside my current Logitech Slim Combo Smart Connector keyboard, I saw little difference in software response. The Smart Connector keyboards are faster — but only barely.

One area where I have struggled a bit is with the iPad's multitasking gestures: The one-finger Dock flick is impeded slightly by the Brydge's metal base, which aligns right at the bottom edge of the iPad's screen. In iOS 11, this isn't a huge issue because of the touch target, but with iOS 12 introducing the single-swipe-to-close gesture to the iPad, accessing the dock has been significantly more challenging.

It's made me add a new iOS feature to my wish-list: a keyboard shortcut to pull up the Dock (the same way that Command-Tab pulls up the quick-switch interface).

The keyboard is rated for a year of battery life on a full charge; while I obviously haven't been able to test that claim with only a few weeks' use, its battery still sports a respectable 76% straight out of the box. Charging (when you do need to do it) needs only a micro-USB cable and a charging solution.

See at Brydge

Brydge & Reliability

I'm not the first person to write about Brydge's QA issues, but I'm hoping that I'll be one of the last. The issue in question is a connectivity problem that causes the keyboard to miss keystrokes while typing; it's shown up in random Brydge units since late 2016/early 2017, and now it's come to the company's latest 10.5-inch iPad Pro keyboard, too. It's worth noting that this problem does seem to affect only a small portion of the company's keyboards, and appears to be an immediate manufacturing defect — you either have a faulty keyboard, or you don't.

While I would have hoped that Brydge had learned from its manufacturing issues with the 12.9-inch model, I do recognize that building keyboards isn't an easy process. And the company does seem committed to eradicating this problem from its production line once and for all. A spokesperson for the company told iMore:

Brydge also offers a lifetime warranty against defects in its keyboards — an acknowledgement that even if the company cannot permanently remove this problem from its production line, it wants to minimize that effect on its users as much as possible.

Note on the warranty: If you buy a keyboard from Brydge, you're automatically enrolled; if you buy the keyboard from another source like Amazon, make sure to visit Brydge's warranty page and register your keyboard in the first 60 days of purchase.

And I was one of those affected users: My first review sample had the same key-dropping issues; Brydge was quick to issue me a replacement (which I'm typing this review on now) that works perfectly. I just hope the company is as expedient with its non-press customers who have this problem.

After all, no company wants to have to field returns from unhappy customers (at least, no company that wants to stay in business). And Brydge's build quality is otherwise so good that this key-dropping problem is a frustrating black mark on an otherwise stellar 10.5-inch iPad Pro keyboard.

The company makes the best lap-based typing solution out there for 10.5-inch models, even with the defect out there in certain models. If you don't mind the risk of having to return your first keyboard, I'd recommend picking one up right now. Otherwise, you can always wait a few months for Brydge's QA process to hopefully catch the bad models hiding in the remainder of this production batch.

Most new vehicles are equipped with Bluetooth technology, so you can play music and take calls off of your phone. Many manufacturers even choose to include CarPlay built right into their vehicles (or you can add it as an upgrade). If, however, you don't have a vehicle with Bluetooth built in, or you simply want more out of your current bare-bones Bluetooth system, you might consider a CarPlay receiver.

That being said, before you consider a receiver, consider these few things to make sure it's what you really need.

• Cost
• Installation
• Are you buying a new car soon?
• Are all drivers in the Apple ecosystem?
• Room
• Wired or wireless?

Cost

Off the hop, a decent CarPlay-enabled audio receiver is going to run you at least $300 to $400 — really great ones run upwards of $700. Is half the cost (or, depending on your iPhone model, the whole cost) of your phone worth having CarPlay access in the car? Or can you live with Siri's functionality on its own and live without the larger display for maps and stuff?

It's not like you just buy the receiver and go

A third-party CarPlay receiver isn't something that just hangs out in your car in tandem with your current console — it replaces your current console. So consider your warranty, whether or not you know how to remove and then install a new console. If you don't know how any of that works, then you're going to have to take your car in somewhere and get a pro to do it, and that can run your upwards of $200 for parts and labour, on top of what you've already paid for the CarPlay receiver.

So if you're not sure you're sticking with iPhone for the foreseeable future and/or you don't have $500 to $1000 to drop on it, then don't do it.

Buying a new car in the next little while?

Then you'll want a receiver you can cheaply replace. There's no sense in dropping a ton of money for the next person who owns your car. Also, consider a car with CarPlay built in for your next vehicle and you won't even have to worry about third-party receivers.

Are all drivers in the Apple ecosystem?

If you share your car and not everyone who drives it owns an iPhone, then an aftermarket CarPlay receiver probably isn't a good idea. They won't get the most out of the experience, and if you're considering it as a "family" accessory, then there will be those who are left out.

That being said, if it's your car and it's tough titties for everyone else, then go for it!

You can also grab receivers that support both CarPlay and Android Auto, and each driver can switch between to use there preferred platform.

Do you have the room?

This may seem simple, but really look into it. Yes, there are parts that can be used so that once your CarPlay receiver is installed, everything looks finished and as though it was meant to be that way all along. However, if you have limited room in your dash, things just may not work.

Make sure you're choosing a receiver that works with your vehicle. Consider asking a professional before you even start looking. Units are usually categorized into "Single DIN" (2x7 inches) or "Double DIN" (4x7 inches), and the latter is simply larger.

You'll also want to make sure you'll have a couple inches of clearance behind the unit to allow for cables and wiring. Again, if you're really not sure, consult an automotive professional.

Wired or wireless?

Some CarPlay-enabled head units provide a wired connection, so you can charge your iPhone while you drive. If your car doesn't have USB ports and/or you don't want to bother mucking about with a cigarette lighter charger, then definitely consider wired. If you don't care about charging in the car or already have a charging solution, then wireless is perfect for you. If you want wireless, consider adding a wireless charger to your vehicle or a wireless charging mount.

Anything else?

Got any questions or other considerations before diving into CarPlay? Sing out in the comments below!

Apple's W1 line of headphones have been on the market for over a year now, and even if you don't love the sound of the company's Beats line, it's hard to argue with extra-long battery life and the W1's convenience. It's why Apple's AirPods and Beats X headphones are staples in my bag wherever I travel — I largely leave my over-ear Bose QC35s at home with my Mac.

But on my most recent derby trip, I shook up my packing list and only brought a single set of headphones: Libratone's new in-ear Track+. With water resistance for the gym, a 8+ hour battery life, CityMix noise isolation, and Libratone's excellent reputation for sound, the headphones are a tempting all-purpose option — so much so that I've had my Beats X in a drawer for the last month.

• See at Amazon
• See at Libratone

Form, fit, and style

On first glance, the $199 Track+ look very similar to Apple's wireless in-ear Beats set: they're thin and light, with a cord that wraps around the base of your neck with two weighted battery packs (one with a micro-USB port, the other with headphone controls).

But where the Beats employ a flat cord all the way around, the Track+ swaps for a rounded cable between the batteries and your ears; it makes for a much nicer experience while in your ears or when putting them away in a small pouch.

The buds, too, have superior comfort over the Beats X and many other in-ear models I've tried: I've worn the Track+ for many 6-8 hour periods over the last month, and the only time I felt any ear fatigue or pain was with the optional ear-wings attachment (which I promptly removed).

That in of itself is also pretty special: I have an ear canal that despises traditional earbuds; it usually takes me fifteen minutes or more to tweak a setup with customizable buds that works for my ears, and wingtips are almost always required. With the Track+, I assumed the same would be the case, but I actually found the earbuds much more comfortable without wings or any silicone bud adjustment. I suspect part of this is due to Libratone's pill-shaped earbud: The rear plastic provides enough of a wedge and balance in my ears that I very rarely had issues with headphone slippage.

The one place where I considered installing wingtips: The gym. While the Track+ did admirably during runs, rows, and deadlifts, I had one earbud repeatedly fall out when doing torso-twisting motions like skater jumps.

Battery life has been about on par with Libratone's estimates in the last month, giving me 7-9 hours per charge. Like Apple's offerings, the Track+ communicates decreasing battery life with a series of beeps; it's not my favorite way of communication, personally, but it's effective enough (beeping at 20 and 10 percent, respectively). That said, I still wish more companies would implement Bose's system of speaking the battery percentage level when you turn the headphones on and at low levels.

Sound and noise cancellation

I've always personally liked Libratone's audio, and here again the company has delivered a top-notch experience in the Track+. In side-by-side tests with the Beats X, the headphones rated similarly, but I'd give the edge to Libratone for slightly richer mids and highs; the Beats have a tendency to get flat and tinny on more complex mixes. I have noticed the occasional bass over-vibration, but that may also have to do with my choice of equalizer settings (especially in Spotify).

In addition to solid sound, Libratone offers a version of its CityMix noise cancellation for the Track+, though in practice it provides more noise-isolation-like sound than pure cancellation (mostly due to how well the buds seal against your ears). That said, the addition is noticeable when compared to the Beats X and other in-ear headphones — it may not beat Bose's cancellation technology anytime soon, but it does help mute outside noise and hums. I used the Track+ in lieu of my QC35s or Beats X on two recent flights — one of which involved a propeller plane —  and while it didn't completely drown out the noise of the propeller, it made the cabin an infinitely more pleasant place to travel. (Like the Beats X, you should still expect music to be near-max for your best drown-out experience.)

The Track+ has multiple different CityMix options that you can toggle with the Power button, including an app-only pass through option (which mutes your music and routes the cancellation mic through your headphones, so you can hear the outside world). I especially love this last inclusion: It provides just a little more real-world sound than your traditional pause button. (You can activate it either from the app or by double-pressing the Power button.)

A mixed app experience

If I can pinpoint one flaw in the Track+ experience, it's the Libratone app: While it's well-designed, I frequently ran into issues where the Track+ wouldn't appear as connected — even when it was actively playing music through Bluetooth on that same device. It's a shame, because the headphones' Bluetooth switching works pretty seamlessly between iPhone, Watch, and Mac, but switching between devices seems to freak out the app; it often requires a complete re-pair to get it to "see" already-connected headphones.

It's here where I most miss the convenience of Apple's W1 chip: I like knowing my headphones are always going to work with no compromises or confusion. Even though the Track+'s Bluetooth works well, the lack of equally strong pairing in the app takes away some of the headphones' cooler features (including manually tweaking CityMix, using the pass through option, and changing the ambient EQ).

Updated May 9, 2018: Added more information about CityMix controls.

While your Apple Watch's heart sensor should perform just fine for passive monitoring, anyone training or in need of much more accurate data may be better off with a heart rate monitor strap. Luckily, the Apple Watch supports connecting a Bluetooth-enabled strap or monitor. Once you pair it, you're ready to go!

Keep in mind that while the Apple Watch should support many Bluetooth heart rate monitor straps, it may not support all of them: Straps that use older legacy Bluetooth technology or ANT+ won't connect to the watch.

• How to pair your external heart rate monitor with your Apple Watch
• How to fix a heart rate monitor that won't pair with Apple Watch

How to pair your external heart rate monitor with your Apple Watch

1. Make sure your heart rate monitor is discoverable.
2. Launch the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
3. Tap on Bluetooth.
4. Tap on the name of your device under Health Devices when it appears in order to pair it.

How to fix a heart rate monitor that won't pair with Apple Watch

There are a few potential reasons why your heart rate monitor won't pair with Apple Watch. First, make sure you have a strap that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or LE connectivity: Straps that use older legacy Bluetooth technology won't appear at all in your Apple Watch's Bluetooth settings.

We've largely seen issues where heart rate monitors won't connect to Apple Watch because they've been previously paired with a different device — usually your iPhone — and will automatically try and grab that signal before displaying on Apple Watch. We've also seen issues with heart rate monitors not being in pairing mode. Here are a few steps you can take to fix these issues.

1. Make sure your Bluetooth heart rate monitor supports Apple Watch and is in pairing mode (check with your monitor's manufacturer for more information).
   • Tip: Some heart rate monitors, like Polar's H-series, may need to be worn on your skin during the pairing process — check with your manufacturer for more details.
2. On your iPhone, go to the Settings app.
3. Navigate to Bluetooth.
4. Turn the master Bluetooth switch Off.

5. On your Apple Watch, swipe up from the bottom of the watch face to open Control Center.
6. Tap the Airplane mode button to disable your Apple Watch's sensors.
7. Wait ten seconds, then tap the Airplane mode button again to reenable your Apple Watch's sensors.

8. Go to the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
9. Tap on the Bluetooth option.
10. Scroll down to the Health Devices section. It may take a few moments for your heart rate monitor to appear.
11. Select your heart rate monitor to connect it to your Apple Watch.

Questions?

Did you have any other question about pairing external heart rate monitors? Let us know in the comments below.

Updated April 2018: Added information about troubleshooting heart rate monitor pairing.

With a ton of great games available on for Mac, there's never been a better time to start gaming on your favorite Apple computer. If you're like me though, control games with your keyboard and mouse don't feel very natural — I prefer a good controller.

While there are a few great controllers out there, if you have a DualShock 4 from your PlayStation 4, you can pair it with your Mac no problem! Here's how you connect a PlayStation DualShock 4 controller to your Mac.

• How to unpair your DualShock 4 from your PlayStation 4
• How to pair your DualShock 4 with your Mac

How to unpair your DualShock 4 from your PlayStation 4

If you want to use a controller that you have already been using for your PlayStation, you're going to need to unpair it from the console before you can use it with your Mac.

1. Turn on your PlayStation 4.
2. Select Settings from the menu.
3. Select Devices.
4. Select Bluetooth Devices.
5. Select DualShock 4.
6. Select Disconnect.

How to pair your DualShock 4 with your Mac

1. Press and hold the PS button and Share button on the DualShock 4 to put it into pairing mode. The controller will flash when it's in pairing mode.
2. Click on the Bluetooth icon in the top right corner of your desktop.

3. Click Open Bluetooth Preferences.
4. Click Connect next to the wireless controller device.

Now you're ready to game with your DualShock 4 controller on your Mac!

Any Questions?

Let us know in the comments below!

You know the feeling. Driving along in your car and all of a sudden the dreaded check engine light mysteriously illuminates. Depending on your vehicle, a check engine light can be something as innocuous as a loose gas cap or something much more costly like a bad catalytic converter.

The check engine light just turned on in my vehicle and instead of being at the mercy of a service centre, I bought a device that allows me to connect to the onboard computer to help me troubleshoot potential repairs before I visit the garage. And you can too with your iPhone and an OBD2 bluetooth adapter.

Modern cars have modern computers

Your vehicle's onboard computer monitors a myriad of sensors and systems that govern the proper functioning of your vehicle. Most modern vehicles allow for you to tap into those sensors to run diagnostics via a connection to the computer called an OBD2 port.

Although it varies form vehicle to vehicle, most OBD2 ports are located under the dash so that a technician can have easy access for their diagnostic tools.

Why bother connecting to my onboard computer?

Although vehicles, much like our beloved Apple devices, are becoming less and less accessible for the do-it-yourself repair types, you can at least be knowledgeable as to what sort of issue your car is reporting by connecting to it's onboard computer.

Many automobile parts stores will supply you with a free scan of your onboard computer with the hopes of being able to sell you something after such a scan. Therefore for most people, being able to connect to the OBD2 port is a non-issue. However, most automobile service centres will charge you in the environs of $100 to perform the same check and once they have you in their clutches, you may feel pressured into performing services that may or may not be necessary.

You may also be the type that likes to be able to monitor the efficiency of your vehicle or you may be mechanically inclined and are able to fix your own needed repairs. Being able to connect and monitor your own vehicle can be a fun and cost saving venture.

How to connect to your vehicle onboard computer

There are many devices and apps in the App Store that you can choose from that allow you to connect your iPhone to the OBD2 port in your car. We are not recommending one device or app over another, but due to a clearance sale, I purchased the QuickLink OBD2 port bluetooth adapter from Innova that works with the free Quicklink app for only $79 CAD (approximately $62 USD).

The interface from OBD2 app to OBD2 app will vary, but we'll be using the Quicklink app as a general guide as to how you can connect to your car and what sort of information you can gather.

You'll need to either scour the web or your owners manual to find where the OBD2 port is located on your vehicle. Mine happens to be right under the driver side dash and is easily visible. Once located, plug in your adapter.

Some OBD2 devices allow for you to choose from a variety of OBD2 applications to interface with the adapter. Others, like QuickLink, have a specific application provided typically for free by the manufacturer. You need to head to the app store and download the application suitable to your needs.

For my specific adapter, I had to connect via the bluetooth settings on my iPhone.

1. Tap Settings.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the OBD2 adapter to connect to.

Other adapters will have the ability to connect via Wi-Fi instead. Typically, the process is the following.

1. Tap Settings.
2. Tap Wi-Fi.
3. Tap the OBD2 adapter to connect to.

Once you've established your connectivity start the associated OBD2 application that is compatible with your adapter.

Monitor your vehicle

Once connected you can either run a scan of the engine light error codes or use tools to perform realtime monitoring of the car. This is what it looks like in the QuickLink app I used:

Although application specific, all OBD2 applications will allow you to diagnose and have access to the reported error codes. Although in my own case, the repairs pointed to an expensive repair, google searches advised that I should try a less expensive repair first to see if that fixes my issue.

If your OBD2 application supports realtime monitoring, you can troubleshoot problems or determine how to increase engine efficiency if you're the dedicated gear-head type. You'll also have an option to clear any error codes to see if any of your applied fixes have taken hold.

Additionally, some applications allow for recording of realtime data. Users can later playback the data to determine where a vehicle is exhibiting a malfunction or inefficiency.

Final Thoughts

Being armed with information is a valuable asset especially when dealing with blackbox issue like a check engine light. If you can get a low cost OBD2 port adapter to connect to your iPhone, I whole heartedly recommend it even if it serves merely as a preventative step. What about you? Do you interface with your vehicle's computer using you iPhone? Has been a useful endeavour? Let us know in the comments!

The new Control Center in iOS 11 came with a plethora of changes that made Control Center even more useful on your iPhone and iPad, but not all the changes are straightforward.

If you're coming from iOS 10, you may be used to using Control Center to turn off Wi-fi and Bluetooth with just a few quick taps. Unfortunately, in iOS 11 you're not able to do that. Here's a quick rundown of what Control Center actually does with Wi-fi and Bluetooth, and how to turn off completely.

• What Control Center does with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• How to turn off Wi-Fi in iOS 11
• How to turn off Bluetooth in iOS 11

What Control Center does with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

As pictured above, you can access Wi-Fi and Bluetooth through Control Center in iOS 11 and when you tap either of those buttons, it may appear as if it turned off the wireless connectivity. What those buttons actually do is more of a temporary "disable" feature that kicks off currently connected networks and devices, but keeps the connectivity active.

For example, if you have a pair of Bluetooth headphones connected to your iPhone or iPad and you want to quickly disconnect them, you can tap the Bluetooth button in the Control Center to do that. The device you had paired will become disconnected, but you could still connect another device without having to press the Bluetooth button again. The same thing goes for Wi-Fi.

If you want to completely turn off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth so you can't connect to anything, you'll need to go through settings.

How to turn off Wi-Fi in iOS 11

1. Launch Settings from your Home screen.
2. Tap Wi-Fi.
3. Tap the Wi-Fi On/Off switch. Grey means it's off.

You can follow these exact same steps whenever to turn Wi-Fi on as well.

How to turn off Bluetooth in iOS 11

1. Launch Settings from your Home screen.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the Bluetooth On/Off switch. Grey means it's off.

You can follow these exact same steps whenever to turn Bluetooth on as well.

Any other questions?

Let us know by leaving a comment below!

If you've recently installed iOS 11, you may have noticed that no matter how many times you toggle Bluetooth off in Control Center it's still automatically on when you reboot your phone. It's not just you. Nor is it a bug — that's actually just how the operating system works. Not a huge deal if you're privy to that particular information, but without seeking out the specific support page on Apple's website, most of us who were used to iOS 10 had no way of knowing about this feature change.

Now when you tap to power Bluetooth or Wi-Fi down in the new Control Center, it doesn't shut them off completely. Instead, it just disconnects you from most accessories or devices you may have been connected to and disables auto-join capabilities. To actually turn off Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you have to go into the Settings app and do it there. All of this is because Apple wants to keep users' connection intact so they're able to utilize things like Air Play, Air Drop, Apple Watch and Apple Pencil, even if they wish to disconnect from other devices.

The jury is still out on whether this change to the functionality of Control Center is a positive or negative thing. Most people seem to be feeling touchy about it, and with good reason: leaving Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on willy-nilly can jeopardize the security of your iPhone or iPad, make you an easier target for hacking and other potential attacks. Many Apple users are taking to Twitter to air their grievances:

For a list of everything you can actually do with iOS 11's Control Center, check out our article here.

Thoughts?

Are you a fan of this new feature or do you find it bothersome? How are you feeling about the new Control Center in general? Let us know in the comments!

Today Shure announced in a press release that it will be adding wireless earphones to its popular line of SE Sound Isolating earphones. These include wireless versions of its SE215 and SE112 earphone models, as well as a Bluetooth accessory cable that can convert any pair of SE earphones with a detachable cable into wireless earphones.

See at Shure

Shure promises that due to their ergonomic design these earphones will naturally block up to 37dB of outside noise so users will have a more immersive, distraction-free listening experience. They also come with a fit kit with a variety of different sleeve options so that users can be sure the earphones will fit securely and comfortably inside their particular ears. This is especially fantastic for people like me who have ears too small for other one-size-fits-all wireless earphone solutions (looking at you, Apple AirPods.)

The SE112 and SE215 Wireless Earphones and the Bluetooth Accessory Cable all boast high-quality sound, Bluetooth 4.1 technology, a range of 30 feet, an integrated mic, a simple three-button remote and multi-device pairing capability. They can also be used for up to eight hours on a single charge, so you can literally jam all day if that's your thing.

Shure's Senior Category Director Matt Engstrom commented on following the new wireless trend:

Both the standalone cable and the SE112 earphones are priced at $99. The SE215 earphones are a little more expensive at $149, but they're also more advanced in the audio quality department and feature enhanced bass for richer listening. Both sets of earphones come with a USB charging cable, clothing clip and carrying case. They aren't available yet, but will be purchasable at a variety of online and in-store retailers soon.

Questions?

What do you think about Shure's new wireless options? Let us know in the comments!

AirPlay is a great way to beam audio from your iPhone or iPad to an Apple TV, Airport Express, or AirPlay-compatible speaker. But what about speakers, sound systems, and audio sources that aren't AirPlay compatible? That's where BlueTooth comes in. It's a standard and it's getting better all the time. Here's how you get that set up with your iPhone or iPad.

• How to pair Bluetooth headphones or speakers
• How to select a Bluetooth device to use in Settings
• How to choose a Bluetooth device in Control Center

How to pair Bluetooth headphones or speakers

You can pair any modern Bluetooth headset or speaker with your iPhone or iPad by following these instructions.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Put the Bluetooth device you wish to pair into pairing mode. How you do this depends on the device.
4. Tap the name of your Bluetooth product under Other Devices.

Depending on your Bluetooth device, you may need to enter some sort of pairing code.

How to select a Bluetooth audio source in Settings

You can select your Bluetooth audio source within the Settings app.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the name of the device you want use under My Devices.

How to choose a Bluetooth audio source from Control Center

Of course, the quickest way to select a new source for your audio involves a quick finger flick and a swipe to the left or right.

1. Swipe up from the bottom of your iPhone or iPad's screen.
2. Swipe to the playback control card. From the primary Control Center card, it's a swipe to the left, while it's a swipe to the right from the HomeKit card.

3. Tap the device name at the bottom of the card to bring up a list of streaming devices.
4. Tap the name of your Bluetooth product on the list.

Questions?

If you need to know anything else about streaming audio from your iOS devices, be sure to ask in the comments.

Although your Mac comes with the Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, both of which are Bluetooth devices, you may prefer the look and feel of something different. If you have opted for a third party Bluetooth Keyboard and mouse, it's easy to set up, so follow along and we will show you how!

How to pair a Bluetooth mouse or keyboard with your Mac

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen. It looks like this .
2. Click on System Preferences.

3. Click on Bluetooth. It's the funky-looking "B" in the blue oval.
4. Click on the Turn on Bluetooth button if Bluetooth is not currently on.

5. Put your Bluetooth device into pairing mode. The exact method for entering pairing mode varies by device, though most automatically enter pairing mode the first time they are turned on.
6. Click on the Pair button beside the keyboard you want to pair.
7. Click on the Pair button beside the mouse you want to pair.

Questions?

If you want to know anything else, just leave us a comment below!

Headphones, portable speakers, keyboards, even your car — these are just a few out of the many things that can connect wirelessly to your iPhone and iPad using Bluetooth. Modern Bluetooth is also easier to use than ever. As long as everything is charged, a Bluetooth device can broadcast that it's available, so it's easy to connect. Then in can stay ready, in a lower-power state, to ensure long battery life, but also burst incredibly fast to transfer data, including audio, when you need it.

• How to turn Bluetooth on/off on iPhone and iPad
• How to pair a Bluetooth device to your iPhone or iPad
• How to unpair a Bluetooth device to your iPhone or iPad
• How to forget a Bluetooth device on iPhone and iPad

How to turn Bluetooth on/off on iPhone and iPad

Before you can connect anything via Bluetooth, you need to make sure you have Bluetooth enabled. The easiest way is to use Control Center:

Alternatively, you can also use Control Center to turn Bluetooth on or off.

1. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up Control Center
2. Tap on the Bluetooth button. It's the middle button in the top row.

You can also do it in Settings, if you prefer:

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Tap Bluetooth
3. Switch Bluetooth to On.

To disable Bluetooth, complete the same steps and switch Bluetooth to Off.

How to pair a Bluetooth device to your iPhone or iPad

Note: Before you start make should you have enabled Bluetooth on your iPhone and iPad

1. Make sure your Bluetooth accessory is powered on and in "Discoverable" mode. How to do this will vary from device to device, so consult the instructions that came with your particular device.
2. Launch the Settings app
3. Tap Bluetooth.
4. Tap the name of the device you want to pair with.

How to unpair a Bluetooth device to your iPhone or iPad

1. Launch the Settings app
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the information button beside the device you want to unpair.
4. Tap Disconnect

How to forget a Bluetooth device on iPhone and iPad

1. Launch the Settings app
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the information button beside the device you want to unpair.
4. Tap Forget this device.

Bluetooth is a standard for connecting wireless devices together; many accessories use it, such as headphones, keyboards, mice, speakers, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and much more. It's a vital technology that a lot of people use every day, and by eliminating the need for cords, it gives us freedom of movement.

If you like listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on your Mac, but hate that the cord gets in your way while you're typing, Bluetooth headphones are a great solution. They aren't hard to get setup on your Mac, so let's get started.

• How to pair Bluetooth headphones on your Mac
• How to use Bluetooth headphones on your Mac
• How to show volume control in the menu bar on your Mac
• How to adjust the stereo balance on your Mac

How to pair Bluetooth headphones on your Mac

Note: Before you get started, make sure your Bluetooth headphones are powered on and in "Discoverable" mode. How to do this will vary from device to device, so consult the instructions that came with your headphones.

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen. It looks like this .
2. Click on System Preferences.

3. Click on Bluetooth. It's the funky-looking "B" in the blue oval.
4. Click the Turn on Bluetooth button if Bluetooth is not already on.

5. Put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode.The exact steps for entering pairing mode vary between headphone makers and models, though most will enter pairing mode the very first time they're turned on.
6. Click on the Pair button beside the headphones you are trying to connect. Your Mac will connect to the headphones.
7. Close the Finder window.

How to use Bluetooth headphones on your Mac

Once you have paired your Bluetooth headphones to your Mac, you'll notice they work like any other pair of headphones does on a Mac. Crank up your favorite tunes and start bopping your head.

With your Magic Keyboard, you can raise and lower the volume with the F10 and F11 respectively, mute your Mac with F10, play or pause music with F8, and use F7 and F9 to go to the previous track or next track respectively.

Certain Bluetooth headphones may have volume control or other features on the headset itself, be sure to consult the instructions that came with your specific headphones to find out how they work.

How to show volume control in the menu bar on your Mac

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen. It looks like this .
2. Click on System Preferences.

3. Click on Sound. It's the icon that looks like a speaker
4. Click on the checkbox beside Show volume in menu bar.

How to adjust the stereo balance on your Mac

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen. It looks like this .
2. Click on System Preferences.

3. Click on Sound. It's the icon that looks like a speaker
4. Click on Output.

5. Click on the slider between left and right.
6. Drag the slider to the left or right to adjust the audio balance in your headphones (or speakers) to the left or right.

Don't feel like dictating to Siri or typing characters in one at a time with your Siri Remote or third-generation Apple TV remote? You can hook up your Bluetooth keyboard to your third- or fourth-generation Apple TV with little muss or fuss. Here's how.

How to pair a Bluetooth keyboard with Apple TV (fourth-generation)

1. Turn the keyboard on if it isn't already. Otherwise, switch it off and then on to make it discoverable. (On Apple's new Magic Keyboard, the switch is on the back left.)
2. With your Siri Remote, select the Settings icon from your Apple TV home screen.

3. Go to Remotes & Devices > Bluetooth.
4. If on and in range of your Apple TV, your keyboard should appear. (It may need to be disconnected from any other devices, like your Mac, first.) Select it.

5. Press Connect to connect your keyboard.

And with that, you're all set! If you wish to unpair your keyboard, you need only follow steps 1-4, then press Forget Device.

How to pair a Bluetooth keyboard with Apple TV (third-generation)

1. Turn the keyboard on if it isn't already. Otherwise, switch it off and then on to make it discoverable. (On Apple's new Magic Keyboard, the switch is on the back left.)
   
   
   

2. Click on the Settings icon on the Home screen.
3. Click on General.
   
   
   

4. Click on Bluetooth.
5. Click on Keyboard: Magic Keyboard when it appears under the Devices list.
   
   
   

That's it. You're done. No codes, no pins. If you wish to unpair your keyboard, you need only follow steps 1-4, then press Forget this device.

Questions?

Let us know in the comments.

Apple introduced support for direct MIDI connections over Bluetooth LE with OS X Yosemite an iOS 8, and with a firmware update, the Guitar Wing will work with this new connection on either platform. The update allows people to use their Guitar Wing with their Apple devices while consuming less power.

The Guitar Wing first debuted as a Kickstarter project in early 2014. When attached to an electric guitar or bass, the accessory allows users to control effects in any program that works with MIDI input. The controller works with applications like Abelton Live, Apple's Logic, and Livid Instruments' own WingFX. You can grab the Guitar Wing from Livid Instruments for $189.

Source: Livid Instruments

As my friends, family, and boyfriend would likely tell you if you asked, I'm bad about keeping track of things. I frequently lose my keys, my phone, my iPad, my wallet, and my bag — all within the small confines of my 400 sq ft studio. (I've got a lot of stuff, okay?)

As such, when I first heard about Bluetooth LE trackers like Tile, I was thrilled — but they all had fiddly bits and pieces that made my excitement wane. No way to replace the batteries. Tiny zones. I ended up resigning myself to the fact that the Tile was not, in fact, the droid I was looking for.

Chipolo, on the other hand, might just be the one.

Bitty little color finder

I learned about Chipolo at CES this year, and it delighted me in ways that Tile and other trackers simply hadn't. It's colorful and looks more like a sporty keychain than random technobob. It sports a replaceable watch battery. It has an auto-loss feature to alert you when you're accidentally leaving one of your items behind — and Quiet Zones to keep that feature from being annoying within your own house. And perhaps my favorite bit: if you've lost your iPhone but not your Chipolo, you can shake it and your iPhone will trill in return.

I've been testing a Chipolo on my bag and keys for a few weeks, and I absolutely love it, though there are a few minor kinks in the system that could be better. The thing is dead-simple to pair after downloading the companion app on iOS, Android, or Windows Phone; just drop it atop your smartphone screen and let it get to work.

After it's paired, your app displays the name of your Chipolo, a button for making it ring, its current range, temperature sensor, and whether or not you're in a Quiet Zone. The temperature sensor is one of those little extras on the Chipolo that make me smile: It's certainly not the most accurate temperature gauge you'll find on a gadget — not by a long shot — but it absolutely helps when figuring out if you left an item indoors or outdoors.

In the weeks I've had the Chipolo, it never failed to ring when I tapped the button, though depending on the range between the two items, it may take a few seconds for the Bluetooth command to execute. Likewise, a hard shake of the Chipolo rings my phone almost instantly. (I appreciate that it requires a decent amount of force exerted to ping the phone, as the feature could otherwise quickly become annoying on something like a set of keys.)

If there's one complaint to be made, it's that the 180-foot range sensor on the Chipolo doesn't always function like it should. If my keys and iPhone are on the bed, it shows full range; if my keys end up under the covers, that range signal decreases by two bubbles. In day-to-day use this wouldn't normally be a problem — save for the auto-loss feature: If you lose contact with the Chipolo completely, it starts to chirp. This happened to me a few times during my testing period until I installed a geofenced Quiet Zone over my apartment, which solved the problem; nevertheless, it's a disappointing quirk to an otherwise fantastic product.

If your Chipolo senses it's lost, either by carelessness or quirk, it goes into Lost mode, providing you with a GPS snapshot of where the device was when your phone last had contact with it. Not as good as real GPS, but a nice place to start looking. You can also enable SOS mode, which lets anyone else with the Chipolo app installed pick up on its signal and give you a GPS update for easier searching. Once your phone's within range, the Chipolo app automatically displays a "Chipolo connected" screen.

A worthy little gadget

Even with the auto-loss software bugs, I love being able to quickly find my keys or my phone around the house, and I'm tempted to get a few more Chipolos for other important things I don't want to lose — my bookbag, for one.

What about you folks? Do you have a Chipolo or other GPS locator device you adore, or do you prefer to find things the old-fashioned way? Let me know in the comments below.

• Chipolo - $29 - Buy Now

The FCC has published a number of documents with details on an unreleased Apple-produced piece of iBeacon hardware. Some documents for this hardware were spotted last summer, but today's release includes the user manual. It's unknown what this whether this device is meant as a product for consumers or business partners, or if it's intended as hardware for developers. From 9to5Mac:

It's a fairly simple device. It has a threaded hole for mounting with a screw, as well as a battery status LED, a USB to Micro USB port, and a power switch. The manual says that the USB power adapter and USB to Micro-USB cable must be purchased separately.

Source: 9to5Mac

If you frequently pair your iPhone with your car in order to play music over the speakers, you probably have controls on your dash or steering wheel that let you pause, play, and skip tracks without having to actually pick up your iPhone. Unfortunately some iPhone users have reported issues with these functions under iOS 7. Either skipping, pausing, and playing don't work with car controls or there is a serious lag. Regardless what issue you're experiencing, the good news is that there's an easy fix!

How to fix iOS 7 Bluetooth issues when pairing your iPhone to your car

1. Launch the Settings app on the iPhone (or iPad) that you're having issues with in your car.
2. Tap on Bluetooth.
3. Tap on the info button next to the device that shows up as your car. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. For example, since I have a Honda, the Bluetooth device shows up as HandsFreeLink.
4. Tap on Forget this Device.
5. Tap on Forget Device one more time in the popup menu to confirm.
6. Re-pair your iPhone with your car the way you did the first time you set it up.

Once you re-pair your iPhone with your car again, you shouldn't have a delay or issue skipping, playing, and pausing tracks. I had this issue with my iPhone after updating to iOS 7.1 and simply pairing my iPhone like brand new resolved the issue. Every once in a while I seem to experience the lag or delay again and I have to repeat the process yet again. Hopefully Apple comes up with a fix soon but until then, hopefully this does the trick for you.

If you're having a Bluetooth issue in your car, try the steps above and then let me know in the comments if this fix worked for you. If you found another trick that works, be sure to let me know that in the comments too!

There are a lot of cool features coming to iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite this fall. One of the most hotly anticipated is Handoff, which enables you to pick up where you left off in an email, a document and other work between iOS and OS X devices. Handoff is elegantly choreographed dance between devices, operating systems and protocols. It's partly dependent on Bluetooth 4.0, the most recent widespread deployment of the popular short-distance wireless communication protocol, which includes Bluetooth Low Energy (BT LE). So, how can you tell if your Mac is properly equipped to take advantage of it?

Bluetooth 4.0 is included in most phones, iPod touches and iPads that will be capable of running iOS 8 when it comes out this fall. (The iPad 2 supports Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, but all other iOS 8-capable devices are equipped with Bluetooth 4.0.)

Unfortunately, it's not quite that clear cut on the Mac side of things. The cutoff starts somewhere in 2011:

• The Mac mini and MacBook Air were both updated with Bluetooth 4.0 support in 2011.
• The MacBook Pro and iMac added it a year later in 2012.
• The Mac Pro languished without it until the new black model debuted in December 2013.

You can check for yourself if you're not exactly sure which Mac model you have. It's a little convoluted, so bear with me and follow these instructions to find out.

To determine your Mac's Bluetooth version

1. Click the  menu.
2. Select About This Mac.
3. Click on the More Info... button.
4. Click on the System Report... button.
5. Select Bluetooth from the sidebar on the left, underneath "Hardware."
6. Scan down the list of information until you find "LMP Version."

If your Mac is equipped with Bluetooth 4.0, LMP Version will say 0x6. Anything lower than that is an older version of Bluetooth.

Does your Mac come with Bluetooth 4.0, or are you going to need a new system to take full advantage of Yosemite and iOS 8 when they're released this fall? Post your thoughts in the comments.

Whether you're diabetic, have high blood pressure, another health condition or just want to keep an eye on what you eat, sometimes it's necessary to count calories and keep a careful eye on the food you put in your body. The SITU Smart Food Nutrition Scale, nearing the end of its Kickstarter campaign, promises to help with that by maintaining a Bluetooth pipeline straight to your iPad.

The SITU scale weighs your food to help give you an accurate idea of calories, salt, sugar, vitamins and minerals in the foods you eat, using an app on the iPad that communicates with the scale via Bluetooth. The app uses a simple drag and drop interface to help you identify the foods you're eating as you weigh them.

The app also accommodates pre-measured ingredients that you probably can't easily get on the scale, such as spices, sugar and oils. It doesn't require you to register online to use — SITU isn't dependent on any sort of cloud service or online database to operate.

Michael Grothaus, a former Apple employee turned technology journalist, developed the SITU scale and software because of his own weight loss struggles; he used a food scale and a complicated 800 page nutrition book to keep track of his calorie intake, losing 100 pounds in the process. An increasingly busy lifestyle and work demands impeded his ability to use his old manual system, and SITU was the result.

SITU's rounding the end of its Kickstarter campaign. With 5 days to go, they're within sight of their goal - £33,742 has been pledged, £35,000 was the goal.

As near as I can tell, somewhere along the way after I upgraded to Mavericks, my Retina MacBook Pro stopped working right. It wouldn't reconnect to a Wi-Fi network after waking from sleep. I had to manually reconnect it; often I'd have to toggle Wi-Fi off and on again to make it work. Turns out a wonky Bluetooth preference file was the culprit. I'm still not clear on why. Here's how to fix it.

How to trash a bad OS X Bluetooth preferences file

1. Go to your Mac's Finder.
2. Click on the File menu and select New Finder Window
3. Click on your Mac's icon in the Devices list in the sidebar
4. Open Macintosh HD (or whatever your Mac's hard drive may be named)
5. Open Library
6. Open Preferences
7. Find the file called "com.apple.Bluetooth.plist"
8. Move it to your desktop. It should copy there.
9. Remove it from the Preferences folder by dragging it into the Trash. The Mac will tell you that Finder wants to make changes. Type your password to allow this.
10. Restart your Mac.

When your Mac restarts, the problem should be resolved.

Bear in mind that what deleted your existing Bluetooth preferences. If you're using any Bluetooth devices, like some keyboards, mice, speakers and headsets, you'll need to re-pair them to get them to connect to your Mac. If this fixes your problem, you can trash the file on your desktop whenever you're comfortable.

I have it on good authority that this fixes the problem many of us have seen since installing Mavericks, but there are still some for whom this fix doesn't work. If you fall into that unfortunate category, it's probably worth your while to either visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple retail store or to call AppleCare, if you have coverage.

Has it fixed your issue? Still having trouble? Sound off in the forums!

Apple has rolled out its specifications for iBeacons while simultaneously beginning to certify devices that use the technology through its MFi program. While for the most part standard for devices that use Bluetooth LE, devices seeking approval from Apple to use the iBeacon trademark must broadcast Bluetooth LE in a manner that conforms with Apple's standards for what can be transmitted over the air. Apple will also now have a bit more control over what devices are referred to as iBeacons, according to Beekn:

Major iBeacon initiatives are being undertaken by several store chains and franchise sports such as baseball in an effort to connect more closely with consumers. What would you like to see iBeacon used for in the future? Let us know below in the comments.

Source: Beekn

When Steve Jobs introduced the original iPhone in 2007 he spent some time talking about its sensors — the capacitive multitouch sensors in the screen that let you use your bioelectric finger as the best pointing device ever, the accelerometer that enabled the interface to rotate with the phone, the ambient light sensor that adjusted brightness to fit the environment, and the proximity sensor that turned off the screen and capacitance to save power and avoid accidental touch events when the phone was held up to a face. Over the course of the next year, Jobs also introduced Wi-Fi mapping and then GPS so the iPhone could chart its location, and later still, a magnometer and gyroscope so it could understand direction, angle, and rotation around gravity. From the very beginning, the iPhone was aware.

The awareness was bi-directional as well. As the iPhone connected to Wi-Fi networks, so could it be used to map more networks. As the iPhone bounced off cell-towers and satellites to learn its location, so could its location be learned and information derived from it, like traffic conditions. As devices got smarter, so too did the networks connecting them. It was one, and it was many.

Microphones had been part of mobile phones since their inception, transmitting and recording the sounds of the world around them. They improved with noise cancellation and beam-forming, but they came alive with Voice Control and Siri. An App Store app and service bought by Apple and integrated into the iPhone in 2011, it made the microphone smart. All of a sudden, the iPhone could not only listen, but understand. Based on something previously said, it could infer the context and carry that through the conversation. Rather than simply listen, it could react.

Google Now lacked Siri's charm but was also far more brash about its scope. Hooked into the calendar and web browser, email and location, and a bevy of internet information sources, it wouldn't wait for a request, it would push data when time or conditions made it relevant. Thanks to context and natural language coprocessors, it could listen constantly for queries and parse them locally for better speed and better battery life. For Apple, processing so much of our data on their servers and "always listening" to what we say no doubt set off numerous privacy alarms, but for Google and those willing to make that deal, it enabled an entirely new level of functionality. The phone could now be there, waiting not only for a touch, but for a word.

Apple introduced its own coprocessor in 2013 as well, the M7 motion chip. Not only would it allow the existing sensors to persist, recording motion data even while the phone's main processor slept in a low-power state, but through persistence it would enable new features. Pedometer apps, for example, could start off with a week of historical data, and no longer had to rely on external hardware for background monitoring. Moreover, the system could realize when a person switched from driving to walking and record the location where they parked, making the car easier to find later, or realize when a person fell asleep and reduce network activity to preserve power. It could also pause or send alerts based not only on rigid times but on activity, for example, telling us to get up if we'd been stationary too long. It meant the phone not only knew where and how it was, but what was happening to it.

Cameras like iSight have been slowly evolving as well. Originally they could simply see and record images and video. Eventually, however, they could focus on their own and automatically adjust for balance and white level. Then they could start making out faces. They could tell the humans from the backgrounds and make sure we got the focus. Later, thanks to Apple taking ownership of their own chipsets, image signal processors (ISP) could not only better balance, expose, and focus on images, but could detect multiple faces, merge multiple images to provide higher dynamic range (HDR), dynamic exposure, and eliminate instability and motion blur in both the capture and the scene. The software allowed the hardware to do far more than optics alone could account for. Moreover, the camera gained the ability to scan products and check us out at Apple Stores, to overlay augmented reality to tell us about the world we were seeing.

Microsoft, for their part, is already on their second generation visual sensor, the Kinect. They're using it not only to read a person's movement around them, but to identify people, to try and read their emotional state and some amount of their biometrics. Google has experimented with facial recognition-based device unlock in the past, and Samsung with things like pausing video and scrolling listviews based on eye tracking.

Apple has now bought PrimeSense, the company behind the Xbox 360's original Kinect sensor, though their plans for the technology have not yet been revealed. The idea of "always watching" is as controversial, if not more so, than "always listening" and comes with the same type of privacy concerns. But what Siri did for the iPhones "ears", these kinds of technology could do for its "eyes", giving them a level of understanding that enables even better photography, security, and more.

Touch ID, Apple's fingerprint identity system, is already doing that. It's taken the Home button from a dumb switch to a smart sensor. Instead of verifying people based on a Passcode they know, it identifies people based on who we are. Apple has hired other biometric sensor experts as well, though they haven't yet announced just what exactly they're working on. Yet the idea of devices even more personal than phones, wearable, capable of tracking not only fitness but health, is compelling. Pair them with the concept of Trusted Bluetooth — something you have — verify identity, and one day what knows people on a biological level could be used to unlock the technological world around them.

That's the next great frontier. Phones now know and understand more than ever about their own place in the world, and their owners', but the world itself remains largely empty and unknowable. iBeacons, also introduced in 2013, could help change that. While satellites orbit the earth, cell towers dot the landscape, and Wi-Fi routers speckle homes, and schools, and business, iBeacons are meant to fill in all the spaces in between, and to provide information beyond just location. Connected via Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy, it could eventually guide navigation everywhere from inside stores, schools, and buildings, to vast wilderness expanses. iBeacons promise a network as rich as the world around it.

Thanks to the "internet of things" where every device with a radio can also be an iBeacon - including our phones and wearables - and can also sense and transmit it's understanding and capabilities, everything could eventually tie together. Nest already makes connected thermostats and smoke detectors. Nexia already makes connected door locks and security systems. Almost all car companies offer connected automotive options. Eventually, everything that controls environment or will understand that environment and be able to hand over that understanding and control. Apple doesn't need to make most or any of this stuff, it just needs to be the most human, most delightful way of connecting it all together.

CarPlay is an example. The opposite of a wearable is a projectable. Apple did that early on with AirPlay and the Apple TV. They don't have to make a television, they can simply take over the screen. They don't have to make a car, they can simply take of the infotainment system. How many screens will one day be in our lives? Imagine iOS understanding most or all of them and presenting an Apple-class interface, suitable to the context, that's updated whenever iOS is updated and gets more powerful and capable whenever iOS devices get refreshed. It might take the development of dynamic affordance and push interface and other, more malleable concepts, but one day the phone in our pocket, the device we already know how to use and that already knows us, could simply exist on everything we need to interact with, consistent and compelling.

It won't be The Terminator or the Matrix. These won't be AI out to destroy us. This will be Star Trek or JARVIS from Iron Man, This will be devices that are capable only of helping us.

Traffic will take a turn for the worse. We'll glance at our wrist, noting we need to leave for our appointment a few minutes earlier. The heat at home will lower. Our car will start. It'll be brand new, but since our environment is in the cloud and our interface projects from the phone, we'll barely notice the seats moving and heating, and the display re-arranging as we get in. The podcast we were listening to in the living room will transfer to the car stereo even as the map appears on screen to show us the way. The garage door will open. We'll hit the road. The same delay that made us leave early means we'll be late for our next meeting. Our schedule will flow and change. Notifications will be sent out to whomever and whatever needs them.

We'll arrive at the building and the gate will detect us, know our appointment, and open. We'll be guided to the next available visitor's parking spot. We'll smile and be recognized and let in, and unobtrusively led to exactly the right office inside. We'll shake hands as the coffee press comes back up, our preference known to the app in our pocket and our beverage steaming and ready. We'll sit down, the phone in our pocket knowing it's us, telling the tablet in front of us to unlock, allowing it to access our preferences from the cloud, to recreate our working environment.

Meeting done, we'll chit chat and exchange video recommendations, our homes downloading them even as we express our interest. We'll say goodbye even as our car in the parking lot, turns on and begins warming up, podcast ready to resume just as soon as we're guided back to it, and into listening range. On the way down, we'll glance at our wrist again, note we need to eat something sweet to keep our energy in balance. A vending machine on the way will be pointed out, the phone in our pocket will authorize a virtual transaction. A power bar will be extended out towards us. We'll grab it, hurry down, and be on our way to work even as our 4K displays in the office power up, the nightly builds begin to populate the screen, and the tea machine starts brewing a cup, just-in-time, ready and waiting for us...

Right now our phones, tablets, and other mobile devices are still struggling as they awaken and drag themselves towards awareness. It's a slow process, partially because we're pushing the limits of technology, but also because we're pushing the limits of comfort as well. Security will be important, privacy will be important, humanity will be important. If Apple has had one single, relentless purpose over the years, however, it's been to make technology ever more personal, ever more accessible, and ever more human. Keyboards and mice and multitouch displays are the most visible examples of that purpose. Yet all of those require us to do — to go to the machine and push it around. Parallel to input method there's been a second, quieter revolution going on, one that feels and hears and sees and ultimately not only senses the world and network around it, but is sensed by it. It's a future that will not only follow us, but, in its own way, understand.

Update: CarPlay, just announced, has been added to this article.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has announced Bluetooth 4.1, a software update to the existing Bluetooth 4.0 technology in use by all of Apple's current Mac and iOS devices. Dubbed "Bluetooth Smart", it's designed to enable the "Internet of Things" by making connections easier and more powerful than ever. The bullet points, from Bluetooth:

• Coexistence — engineered to work seamlessly and cooperatively with the latest generation cellular technologies like LTE. Bluetooth and LTE radios can communicate in order to ensure transmissions are coordinated and therefore reduce the possibility of near-band interference. The coordination between the two technologies happens automatically, while the consumer experiences the high quality they expect.
• Better Connections — provides manufacturers with more control over creating and maintaining Bluetooth connections by making the reconnection time interval flexible and variable. This improves the consumer experience by allowing devices to reconnect automatically when they are in proximity of one another. The consumer can leave the room and upon returning, two recently used devices reconnect without user intervention.
• Improved Data Transfer — Bluetooth Smart technology provides bulk data transfer. For example, through this new capability, sensors, which gathered data during a run, bike ride or swim, transfer that data more efficiently when the consumer returns home.

Since it's a software update, it might be possible that existing Bluetooth 4.0 devices, including Apple's iPhones, iPads, and Macs, could be upgraded, but we'll have to wait and see. It's still early days. What's more interesting to me is how, after years of building up the various platforms, including Apple's, both platforms and the internet are now mature enough to have a new wave of technology built up on them. Will it be a central brain that projects our cloud-stored environment to anything and everything we come across, or will it be a hive of brains that work together to create an experience greater than the sum of its parts? In a few years, will my iPhone power a wide range of devices all around me, from home to health to automotive to creative and productive and back again, or will all those devices simply be my iPhone, when and as I need them to be?

Either way, the connection will have to be there, invisible but persistent, always on, always available. Whether Bluetooth 4.1 will be that connection, or some form of ad-hoc Wi-Fi, or something else, we'll have to wait and see. Here are the Bluetooth 4.1 specifications and the full press release is below.

Source: Bluetooth

New Features Improve Usability for Consumers and Empower Innovation for Product Developers

Kirkland, WA - December 04, 2013 - The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) today announced the adoption of updates to the Bluetooth Core Specification. Bluetooth 4.1 is an important evolutionary update to the wireless specification, which experienced a revolutionary update in July 2010 with Bluetooth Smart, the intelligent, low-energy technology enabling the Internet of Things (IoT). The updates will improve consumer usability with increased co-existence support for LTE, bulk data exchange rates, and aid developer innovation by allowing devices to support multiple roles simultaneously. The new release also lays the groundwork for IP-based connections, extending Bluetooth technology's role as the essential wireless link for the IoT.

"Bluetooth Smart technology put us on a rocket ship of growth, with Bluetooth annual product shipment projections skyrocketing to more than 4.5 billion in the next five years," said Suke Jawanda, Bluetooth SIG CMO. "We updated the Bluetooth specification to address this projected growth, making changes to give developers more control in assigning a role to their product, limiting interference with other wireless technologies, and allowing Bluetooth Smart products to exchange data faster and maintain connections with less manual intervention. These updates reflect the demand we see in the market. We will continue to sculpt Bluetooth wireless technology to extend its critical role in enabling the Internet of Things and ensure it is the very best solution for OEMs, developers and, ultimately, consumers."

Improving Usability

Bluetooth 4.1 extends the Bluetooth brand promise to provide consumers with a simple experience that "just works." Major usability updates come in three areas:

• Coexistence — engineered to work seamlessly and cooperatively with the latest generation cellular technologies like LTE. Bluetooth and LTE radios can communicate in order to ensure transmissions are coordinated and therefore reduce the possibility of near-band interference. The coordination between the two technologies happens automatically, while the consumer experiences the high quality they expect.
• Better Connections — provides manufacturers with more control over creating and maintaining Bluetooth connections by making the reconnection time interval flexible and variable. This improves the consumer experience by allowing devices to reconnect automatically when they are in proximity of one another. The consumer can leave the room and upon returning, two recently used devices reconnect without user intervention.
• Improved Data Transfer — Bluetooth Smart technology provides bulk data transfer. For example, through this new capability, sensors, which gathered data during a run, bike ride or swim, transfer that data more efficiently when the consumer returns home.

Empowering Developer Innovation

Bluetooth 4.1 extends the Bluetooth Smart development environment by providing product and application developers with even more flexibility to create products that can take on multiple roles. With this new capability, a single device acts as both a Bluetooth Smart peripheral and a Bluetooth Smart Ready hub at the same time. For example, a smart watch acts as a hub gathering information from a Bluetooth Smart heart rate monitor while simultaneously acting as a peripheral to a smartphone — displaying new message notifications from the phone. As the Bluetooth Smart ecosystem grows, the Bluetooth SIG expects more solutions to play both a hub and peripheral role. Bluetooth 4.1 delivers this type of flexibility to Bluetooth Smart devices and application developers.

Enabling the Internet of Things

By adding a standard means to create a dedicated channel, which could be used for IPv6 communications in the Core Specification, the groundwork is laid for future protocols providing IP connectivity. With the rapid market adoption of Bluetooth Smart and the coming addition of IP connectivity, all signs point to Bluetooth as a fundamental wireless link in the Internet of Things. These updates make it possible for Bluetooth Smart sensors to also use IPv6, giving developers and OEMs the flexibility they need to ensure connectivity and compatibility.

For the latest Bluetooth 4.1 technical details, tools and other information including an FAQ, brand guide and more, visit: https://www.bluetooth.org/en-us/specification/adopted-specifications

Harebrained Schemes is the indie software developer that recently brought Shadowrun Returns to life. For the company's next major effort, they're going back to Kickstarter to raise money for a new game called Golem Arcana. Golem Arcana uses the iPad and a Bluetooth stylus to enhance the tabletop gaming experience.

Jordan Weisman - the legendary game designer who founded FASA Corp., creating the original BattleTech and Shadowrun tabletop games - is Harebrained Schemes' founder. In a six-minute video (linked above), Weisman goes to bat for Golem Arcana, explaining that it's been designed to take a lot of the drudgery out of the tabletop gaming experience.

Tabletop miniature gaming has long been a staple of the Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer and strategy game crowds, but it's squarely a niche market - requiring time and investment as players make and paint miniatures and learn the sometimes byzantine rules involved in gameplay. Games can take a long time to play, and they also require gamers to be together in the same place - easier said than done for many of us these days.

Golem Arcana fixes this by making the iPad do most of the heavy lifting. An iPad app keeps track of all the game rules. Combined with a Bluetooth 4.0-equipped stylus you wield on a physical game board, the app helps you know where your units can move, how terrain affects their abilities and what attacks and defenses they can use. There is a server back end, to accommodate multiplayer games. So Golem Arcana provides the tactile satisfaction of the tabletop gaming experience without some of the drawbacks, like carrying around rulebooks and character sheets or even having to meet up physically with your opponents.

Weisman says the plan is to bundle a package that includes the stylus, several game tiles and, perhaps a bit controversially for the tabletop miniatures crowd, prepainted figurines. But then again, Harebrained is plainly targeting a different market than the typical tabletop gamer - Golem Arcana is being developed to appeal to people who, up to now, haven't been bitten by the tabletop gaming bug.

So far, the project has raised more than $140,000 of its $500,000 projected target, with a month to go to hit the target. Whether they can hit the target remains to be seen, but their previous track record bears consideration: When Harebrained raised money for Shadowrun Returns through Kickstarter, they handily beat the target by a factor of almost 5. They asked for $400,000 and $1.8 million was pledged. There's a ton more info on the Kickstarter page - check it out.

What do you think, gamers? Does Golem Arcana make you want to give tabletop gaming a try? Or are you a grizzled old tabletop grognard that thinks this is kid stuff? Sound off in the forums - I'm interested to hear from you.

iOS 7 will bring not only an entirely new, dynamic interface to the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, along with powerful new APIs for app developers. But accessory makes are getting some great new features as well, and that means, presuming they take them and run with them, we'll be getting great new accessories that tie into our location, that let us get our game on, and that make our existing speakers, keyboards, and more work better than ever.

Here's what Apple{.nofollow} has to say about what iOS 7 offers accessory makers, and us.

And here's - what little else - they've said about it so far:

• Integration with 3rd party MFi (made for iPhone) game controllers.
• iBeacons will allow for micro-location over Blue Tooth LE (low energy)

Peter Cohen has already elaborated on the benefits of MFi game controller support, and I'll quote this bit:

Games are, in part, defined by the control schemes available to them. Pong was fantastic with paddles. Modern real-time strategy games can benefit from a full-on PC keyboard. By going beyond the touch screen, Apple will be allowing not only accessory makers to create gamepads for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, but developers to create games that take advantage of them. That's a whole new category of games.

It's also a step towards the future Guy English spoke about on Talk Mobile 2013, where we can walk into a living room, drop our phones on a table, pick up a controller, AirPlay to a big screen TV, and displace the current consoles. It's a step towards the mobile devices becoming mobile brains, and adapting to different environments.

Now the manufacturers and developers have to start delivering on that future, today.

The same holds true for iBeacons. Their success or failure depends on more than just Apple, but on enough places deploying them for them to become meaningful. Micro-location requires micro-locators, small, Bluetooth LE devices that are placed in homes, offices, schools, or other places in order to create a navigation system something like GPS (global positioning satellites) but in an indoor, decidedly terrestrial way.

The interaction between an iOS device and an iBeacon could turn off a light when you leave a room, or on a coffee maker when you enter a house. It could help you find your way to a meeting in a building you've never been to before, or your way along a hiking trail for the first time. It could help a child who requires visual assistance get to their class on time, or a group of children making their way through a science exhibit.

Again, if they're deployed in specific quantities. I'm not sure if the technology or its implementation is specific to Apple, but if it is, and if it's iOS only, than that might curtail wide-scale deployments which require a service with cross-platform support (like GPS). Hopefully iBeacons are a type of micro locator that works with general micro locator technology, and bolster accessibility.

On-device Wi-Fi accessory setup is a boon, and a sign that we're increasingly moving to a mobile first, or mobile only world for some, where the post-PC is no-PC and iPhones and iPads need to be able to handle things all on their own.

And, of course, better working Wi-Fi and Bluetooth accessory support is better.

We'll find out more when MFi game controller support and iBeacons and all the rest when iOS 7 ships this fall. In the meantime, let me know what kind of game controllers you're most looking forward to - old school SNES, classic Xbox, PC-style gamepad, or something else entirely?

• iOS 7: Everything you need to know
• iOS 7: Discussion forum

Back at PAX East I met up with the guys at Plantronics, and they gave me a set of light and sporty Backbeat GO stereo Bluetooth headphones to try out. They adopt the ultra-light look that seems to be all the rage in stereo Bluetooth accessories. As if the form factor wasn't enough to entice music-loving busybodies, the Plantronics Bluetooth guy told me that there's a light oleophobic coating on the headphones to fend off sweat.

In terms of sheer looks, the Backbeat GO headphones are very classy. They're available in black and white, the thin tangle-free wire connecting each bud has a nice matte finish, and the two-tone look is very catching. Both buds have swappable gels (small, medium, and large are included) and clear rubber stabilizing braces, but most of the functional stuff is on the right side. There you'll find the in-line mic with power and media controls and the micro USB charging plug tucked behind a flap in the earbud. The front of the earbud also has an LED indicator, so folks know you aren't just a crazy person talking to yourself when taking a call. On the software side, battery life shows up as a separate indicator on iOS devices when paired.

Operation is pretty standard and what you'd expect. Holding up and down on the volume keys skips tracks, holding down the raised play button initiates Siri. Pairing mode is initiated by holding down the power button extra long when turning it on. Call control includes taking calls, hanging up, putting calls on hold, and redialing - provided you can remember which one is a two-second press which is a double-press of the play button.You get audio notifications when the Backbeat GO is turned on, makes a connection, and is running low on batteries. Listed battery life is around 4 hours, which lines up with my experience.

Now, I tend to be really picky about my in-ear headphones. The Bose in-ear headphones I (and Android Central's Phil Nickinson) use regularly are insanely comfortable, and I've yet to find anything better. You can seriously wear those things day-in and day-out without a problem, and they sound fantastic, buuuuuut you've gotta deal with a wire. That said, even with the smallest earbuds, I found it hard to wear the Backbeat GO headset for longer stretches. Though the old Backbeat 903 headphones didn't sit as closely in the ear canal as the Backbeat GO headset and the earpieces were a fair bit bigger, I found them generally more comfortable. On top of comfort, you've got to deal with the usual issue of in-ear headsets: earwax occasionally gunking up the gel. Insofar as portability and ease of use, the Backbeat GO headphones earn high marks. The cable has been specifically designed to be tangle-free, and I've yet to have any issues on that front.

As for sound quality, the Backbeat GO is on the tinny side. For phone calls and podcasts, that's okay, but I've found busy, bass-heavy music doesn't come through particularly well. On the upside, the earbuds are snug enough that there's ample noise cancellation.

• Stylish design
• Lightweight and portable

• Uncomfortable earbuds
• Tinny audio

The Plantronics Backbeat GO headphones are perfect for anyone looking for music that won't get in the way of their workout. There's enough battery life to get you through a lengthy run or bike ride, and it's very easy to store. Your m,ileage may vary for comfort, and the audio quality is distinctly tinny, which may grate on audiophiles looking for deep, true sound.

• $119.99 (now on sale for $99.99) - Buy now

Duo Games has teamed up with well-known iOS games developer Gameloft to launch a game controller to enable a more console like gaming experience on the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. The new controller, which is known as the Duo Gamer will connect to your device via Bluetooth and comes with two analogue sticks, a D-Pad and six buttons.

The Duo Gamer is compatible with iPad 1, iPad 2, new iPad, iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch (5th generation), and iPod touch (4th generation). It costs $79.99 and will be available from October 5th at Apple.com, Amazon.com and and Target. It is currently compatible with Gameloft's Asphalt 7, Modern Combat 3, Fallen Nation, Order & Chaos Online, Brothers in Arms 2 and N.O.V.A. 3 – Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance.

There is no question that the Duo Gamer is a really nice accessory and one that I would be extremely interested in getting hold of. The problem is that the only games that it supports are games from Gameloft. That is a pretty major flaw with the Duo Gamer and the main reason why other game controllers have never become mainstream. Without support for all games, you are severely limiting your market and there will just not be enough interest to make it a success. Getting every developer to support your game controller is impossible for a third party to manage; only Apple has the ability to do this by including it in the iOS SDK. Until that happens, game controllers are always going to be a niche product.

Source: Duo Games

Well known manufacturer Withings has just announced a new model to its range of bathroom scales and this one looks to cut the cord completely. The new bathroom scales offer Bluetooth connections for local connectivity to your iPhone as well as Wi-Fi and all the initial set up of the scales is done wirelessly without the need for any Mac or PC. The Withings WS-30 scales look to not only bring a beautiful set of scales to your bathroom but also the motivation you need to shed those excess pounds too. The companion app will send you push notifications to remind you to get weighed in the morning as well as provide you with inspiration to meet your weight loss goals.

The WS-30 will not replace the current WB-S01 model of scales offered by Withings but instead will just become a slightly cheaper alternative with additional Bluetooth connectivity; the WB-S01 does have some additional features like body fat measurement. The suggested retail price for the new WS-30 scales will be around €120 ($150) and they should be available later this month.

Do you already own or want to own a set of intelligent connected scales? Do you think it’s worth paying the extra money for a set of scales that can automatically record your weight on your iPhone or is it just as easy to do it manually and save yourself a few dollars?

Source: Withings Blog

The SuperTooth Buddy is a simple no-nonsense Bluetooth 2.1 device that will connect up to 2 iPhones (or other phones, if for some reason you're not all in on the Apple gear) for hand free use in a car, truck, or other vehicle. Since more and more jurisdictions are forbidding talking or otherwise using a mobile device in your hands while driving, accessories like the SuperTooth Buddy are becoming essential for everyone from those who drive all day for a living, to those who drive to work, to those who drive the kids around.

The SuperTooth Buddy offers full duplexing, digital signal processing to eliminate echoes, and double noise reduction to give you the best sound quality possible over a Bluetooth connection. It also features support for volume control, for call waiting, voice control, and last call redial.

You can either clip the SuperTooth Buddy to your car visor, but it also contains a magnet so it can adhere to any magnetically attracted surface as well. Since it's so small, it's easy to find a convenient place for it, and once attached, the Supertooth Buddy stays out of your way until you need it.

It takes roughly 3 hours to charge the SuperTooth Buddy's lithium-ion battery over USB with the included cable, and that gives you 1000 hours of stand by time and 20 hours of talk time. In my tests, that was pretty good.

Since this is such a no nonsense hands free device, the SuperTooth Buddy does not come with a FM transmitter. In today's market, however, I think the FM transmitter is kind of a necessity to be competitive.

Also, while the SuperTooth Buddy can connect with up to two iPhones (or other Bluetooth enabled devices), the second device that gets added to the unit is greatly limited functionality -- it can only accept or reject calls.

To power up the SuperTooth Buddy, you hold down the power button for about 1 second. Keep holding it down for 5 seconds and you put the SuperTooth Buddy into pairing mode. As with most Bluetooth devices these days, pairing with iOS is simple and straight forward. You go to Settings, General, Bluetooth, wait for the SuperTooth Buddy to show up, and tap on it to connect.

Once paired, you have your standard 30 foot ranger over Bluetooth 2.4GHz, but since the SuperTooth is intended for in-car speakerphone use, that's more than enough.

There is an End button on the SuperTooth Buddy as well, but that feels almost old fashioned at this point. Frankly, they could have got away with omitting the End button entirely by simply using the talk button to accept and reject calls with a second tap.

The volume buttons on the SuperTooth Buddy are large and easy to use, and the talk button will bring up Voice Control on an iPhone 3GS or iPhone 4, and the Siri personal assistant on an iPhone 4S.

The good

• Extremely small and light
• Easy to set up and use
• Can adhere via magnets

The bad

• No FM transmitter
• Provides limited functionality for second device

The bottom line

The SuperTooth Buddy is a small, no frills Bluetooth speakerphone system designed for those who want to quickly and easily connect up to two iPhones (or other phones) to stay safe on the road. No more, no less. If you're looking for fancier features, like FM transmitters or big, blasting speakers, look elsewhere. If you're looking for a well designed, well built, incredibly portable, incredibly inexpensive speakerphone so you hands can stay on the wheel, where they're supposed to, check out the SuperTooth Buddy.

$32.79 - Buy now

The Pear is a simple accessory for your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch that turns your existing speaker dock into a Bluetooth enabled speaker system. When you plug your iPhone into a speaker dock or stereo interface, the first thing you have to do is manually start playing the music you want to listen to. You then realize you need to send an SMS message or check an email that just came in so you have to take it out of the dock and the music stops.

It all sounds great at the beginning but speaker docks that require you to physically connect your iPhone are very limiting. Apple saw this problem and released its own wireless protocol called AirPlay. Unfortunately speaker docks with this technology built in are very expensive and hardly common in stores. This is where the Pear Kickstarter project comes in.

It is a pretty obvious solution to the problem and one that should not only make your current dock more usable but will also future proof it if Apple does decide to release the iPhone 5 with a new smaller dock connector. It won’t make any difference as you no longer need to physically connect your iPhone to the dock; it’s all done wirelessly using A2dp.

The Pear is now on Kickstarter and has over fifty days still to run; it has already reached its funding target of $40k. If you want to be an early adopter you can pledge $40 which gets you one should they make it into production. As with all of these Kickstarter projects, just because a particular item reaches its funding total doesn’t guarantee it will be made. I guess the saying goes; you pays your money and takes your choice!

Source: Kickstarter

The Hone us keychain accessory for iPhone and iPad, now on Kickstarter, that aims to eliminate the problem of losing car, house or any other type of keys. Everyone has experienced the panic -- you're running late, searching for your keys, can’t find them anywhere, time is ticking away... Well, instead of checking and re-checking the same places, over and over again, desperately hoping you somehow missed your keys the first ten times around, the Hone offers a better, more technological solution.

A small Bluetooth device for your keychain, the Hone connects to your iPhone 4S or new iPad via the latest Bluetooth 4.0 low energy protocols. When you lose your keys you just simply fire up the companion app and it will trigger an audible alarm and flashing lights. Even better, it has a built in proximity sensor so if you can’t see you keys, walking around and getting nearer to them will change the way the Hone alerts you too.

The Hone runs for up to six months on one replaceable battery and has a range of up to 150 feet. The makers of Hone will also make the device hackable in the future by releasing the devices UDID and Bluetooth profile. This means that you could hack it and use it for a different solution if you wanted a low energy Bluetooth device for something else.

If you want to get on board with this project, you can be an early adopter with a pledge of $40. The Hone still has 22 days left to run but has already reached its fundng target of $46,000.

Source: Kickstarter

I first had the pleasure of trying out Adonit's Writer for iPad, then one of the newest, thinnest Bluetooth keyboards for iPad, at Macworld 2012. And it was impressive. There are several variations of these designs on the market, however, so light and thin as it is, is it still impressive enough?

In the Adonit Writer Plus box you'll find the keyboard and case themselves, as well as a welcome pamphlet, and the micro-USB cable for charging. You can charge via Windows or Mac PC, or with a power adapter (like the one that came with your iPhone or iPad).

The Adonit Writer Plus for iPad is more than just a Bluetooth keyboard. It includes a shell case to protect your iPad when it's closed and to prop it up at a convenient angle for typing when open. The case itself is composed of a strong plastic frame with a thin rubberized exterior and and a soft suede interior. That lets it keep out the scrapes and bumps of the cruel world while coddling your iPad and wrists at the same time.

The keyboard portion of the Adonit Writer Plus is aluminum front and back with black plastic trim and island-style keys. You can get that aluminum in silver, red, or blue, which is nice. It attaches to the sturdy case hinge but can also be separated with a pull. That gives it far greater flexibility and allows for more use cases than a permanently attached keyboard.

The front of the Adonit Writer Plus functions like an Apple Smart Cover, magnetically sleeping or waking your iPad when open or closed. However, because the keyboard gets sandwiched between the case cover and the iPad screen, it didn't prove as consistently reliable. Those same magnets are what allow you to position the Write Plus at a convenient typing angle -- once open, you simply slide the keyboard down towards the edge of the cover and the magnets keep it in place.

Because the case is part of the structure, you don't have to remove your iPad from it and slot it into place like you do with some other keyboards. That keeps it more tightly secure and makes it less likely to get bumped or jostled out of place. It does mean it takes a second longer or two, and a little more effort, to remove the iPad from the Writer Plus.

Pairing is a little more complicated with the Writer Plus as well. First, the power switch is on the bottom of the keyboard, so you have to open the case and flip the keyboard back over the iPad to find it. Then it's so deeply recessed as to be very difficult to actually switch. There's a pin hole so you can use a tool to help you, but it really should be much, much easier. Second, the Writer Plus requires a pin be typed into the keyboard for it to pair, which I like, but additional security always comes at the cost of convenience.

iPad sized, the Adonit Write Plus keyboard can't also be full sized. It's smaller than a MacBook Air and closer to a small netbook keyboard. It is done in the Apple chicklet style, however, the keys have a much easier feel to them (except for the space bar, which is stiffer.)

Unlike some other brands, the Adonit Writer Plus has a full set of function keys across the top -- F1 to F12 -- in addition to dedicated Home and Lock keys on either end. The function keys do primary duty as Spotlight Search, Photos, show/hide Keyboard, cut, copy, paste, skip back, play/pause, skip forward, mute, volume down, and volume up.

There are also alt/option, ctrl, cmd, and arrow keys, and the iPad supports a lot of typical text editing commands and conventions, so keyboard shortcutters will feel right at home.

Adonit promises 2 weeks of battery life on a full charge, based on "normal use". They don't clarify what they consider "normal use", so it'll take us a while and a lot of tests to figure that out. However, it's lasted over a week on a couple of hours of use a day so far, and shows no signs of waning yet.

The good

• Very thin and light
• Includes protective case
• Keyboard can detach from case allowing for more options
• Dedicated function key row

The bad

• Power switch is very difficult to switch

The bottom line

After having used the Adonit Writer Plus for a little over the week -- including to write this review -- I remain broadly happy with it. It's not the full sized typing experience of the Apple Bluetooth Keyboard (paired with Origami), and it's not the incredibly sleek, if case-less package of the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover.

It's something decidedly in the middle -- much easier and better packaged case and keyboard combo that may not be the thinnest possible solution but is the thinner possible solution that includes the security a full case. There's no such things as the best of both worlds, but the Adonit Writer Plus keyboard is the best balance of the two, and that's going to appeal to a lot of users.

$99.99 - Buy now

Logitech's Ultrathin Keyboard Cover is a new implementation of the popular Bluetooth keyboard peripheral for iPad. When on the go, it can be stowed right on your new iPad or iPad 2, just like an Apple Smart Cover, and when in use it can provide a productivity boost for long form writing. But does ultra-portability put a dent in mobile productivity?

The Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for iPad is the sleekest, most sophisticated Bluetooth keyboard we've tested to date. It does add some bulk and some weight -- it is a keyboard, after all -- but given the Apple-esque aluminum shell and high quality plastic iterior and keys, it's remarkably svelte.

Included in the box is the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for iPad itself, along with a pamphlet, and a micro USB cable so you can plug it into a Mac or Windows PC, or a power adapter, to charge.

Like a Smart Cover, the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover attaches to your iPad 2 or New iPad magnetically and protects the screen (and keys) while closed. The aluminum matches nicely with a naked iPad casing, and wears well. The hinge is plastic instead of metal, but seems strong enough. (Metal would have been nicer.) Also like a Smart Cover, it will automatically sleep your iPad when closed. Carrying it around when closed, it looks and feels like two iPads secured face-to-face.

When you're ready to work, opening the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover turns on your iPad. Unlike a laptop, however, you have to remove your iPad from the magnetic hinge and reposition it in the magnetic slot. (There's also no trackpad.) While you could place your iPad in portrait orientation, and it will hold it, the Ultrathin is designed for landscape use.

Pairing is simple, with no pin required. After switching it on and tapping a few times in Settings, you're fit to type.

Logitech's Ultrathin Keyboard Cover doesn't make for a full sized keyboard like you'll find on a MacBook Air. It's closer to a small netbook keyboard. However, the keyboard is done in the current Apple chicklet style, so while the scale is smaller the feel is not dissimilar.

Unlike some other Bluetooth keyboard for iPad, the Logitech Ultrathin doesn't include a set of dedicated function keys. There is a dedicated Home key, but otherwise a Function key modifier lets you use the number keys to send commands like Spotlight Search, Switch language, show/hide the virtual Keyboard, increase Text Selection by one word to the left or right, Cut, Copy, or Paste, Play/Pause music, Mute volume, increase or decrease volume, or Lock or un-Lock your iPad.

There are also alt/option, ctrl, cmd, and arrow keys, and the iPad supports a lot of commond text editing commands and coventions, allowing you to type fairly closely to how you would on a traditional personal computer.

Logitech promises a battery life of 6 months, based on 2 hours of usage a day. That translates to 1.5 months at 8 hours a day. Since the Ultrathin Keyboard hasn't been on the market long enough to test those claims, we'll have to revisit that part of the review at a later date. Suffice it to say, it will last a good while under normal usage.

The good

• Thin, light, and georgous looking
• Excellent typing experience
• Smart Cover-like design is both ultra-portable and protective

The bad

• No dedicated function key row

The bottom line

I've used the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for going on a week now, mostly for pounding out iMore articles using Elements. (And yes, I used it to write this very review.)

There are cases that let you use computer keyboard, like the Origami and Apple keyboard combo, and there are keyboards that are integrated into more traditional style cases, like the Adonit Writer Plus.

The Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover isn't either of those things. If you're looking for a ultra portable, ultra stylish, ultra functional Bluetooth keyboard for your iPad, one that's as well designed as it is built, then look no further -- the Logitech Ultrathin Keybord Cover is it.

$98.95 - Buy now

The SuperTooth DISCO is a stereo Bluetooth (A2DP) speaker system for the iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, Mac and similar devices that promises bigger, better, and more booming sound than the Jawbone JAMBOX. But is the increase in size worth the reduction in portability?

Because the iPhone and iPad aren't exactly renowned for the quality of their speakers, many of us have come to rely on external audio devices to give our iOS devices a much-needed kick in the bass (among other things). While there are plenty of options, including AirPlay speakers, it's convenient to have a sound solution that's as mobile as our mobile devices. Something we can use both when we're at home on Wi-Fi and when we're out and about with no Wi-Fi in sight. That makes Bluetooth still a viable, useful option, and that makes something like the SuperTooth DISCO ideal.

And if it's a multitasker -- something you can hook your friend's non-Bluetooth iPod classic or nano up to via good, old-fashioned hardwire, so much the better.

According to SuperTooth, the DISCO features 28 Watt RMS audio power. That includes the internal Subwoofer amplifier power 12 Watt RMS, and the Internal Left and right audio power amplifier: 2 x 8 Watt RMS. The subwoofer speaker uses the Neodyne high efficiency system, and the left and right speakers are full range with parabolic membrane. All of the speakers magnetic shielded

A large, easy to use control wheel decorates the front of the SuperTooth DISCO. It includes a volume knob as well play/pause, skip back/rewind, skip ahead/fast-forward, a bass button, and an on/off/stop button. There's also a Bluetooth connection and battery level indicator.

Around the back is the charging port and charge level indicator, and a 3.5mm stereo line-in connector.

The nickel metal hydride battery life for the SuperTooth DISCO is rated at 3-4 hours on high volume and up to 10 hours on medium volume. Stand by time is rated at 1500 hours and charge time at 3 hours.

On the other hand, all of that performance comes at a price -- the size. The SuperTooth DISCO is 2.5 lbs, and 3.5 inches high, 2.75 inches thick, and just over a foot long.

That means those hoping to stash the SuperTooth DISCO in a purse or messenger bag may be disappointed. This is large bag or big backpack only.

Maybe for just that very reason, the SuperTooth DISCO comes with a protective carrying case with openings for the ports and the speaker.

The good

• Excellent sound
• Comes with protective case
• Works with both iOS and non-iOS audio devices

The bad

• Large size may limit portability

The bottom line

The SuperTooth DISCO isn't a Bluetooth speaker I can sneak into my jacket pocket, but it's absolutely what I want when I'm driving around in a jeep, or at home and just want the whole place flooded with music.

With great music comes great size, however, and that's not going to suit everyone. When I want massive music from my tiny iPhone, the SuperTooth DISCO is both big and beautiful.

$118.14 - Buy now

Apple has approved an app called Bluetooth OnOff that simply allows you to turn your Bluetooth connection on and off from your home screen. Apple hasn’t previously permitted any apps that connect and interact to stock settings until now; so this is an interesting development.

The app is extremely simple to use, once installed you have an icon on your home screen. If you click on it, a screen loads with a Bluetooth toggle switch, you can then turn Bluetooth on. If Bluetooth is already turned on then loading the app will give you the option to turn it off. The best way of using the app is to go into the apps settings and turn the OnOff switch to on. This enables you to now toggle Bluetooth On / Off from your home screen with one tap of the app icon.

Shortcuts similar to this were very popular when iOS 5 was initially launched. You could use Safari Bookmarklets to add various on/off settings to your home screen. This type of interaction was broken by Apple with the release of iOS 5.1.

It is very interesting that this app is now available but we don’t know if it is a mistake by Apple. It may be pulled at any minute or it could be a sign that Apple is prepared to allow apps that make its users life easier. Let’s be honest, turning systems settings on and off should not be anywhere near as tedious as it is now.

I hope that Apple finally addresses this problem with iOS 6. In the meantime let’s see if this app stays in the App Store. Maybe we will start to see more approved apps that allow us to toggle Wi-Fi and other system settings too.

Download Now

The new iPad is going to have a screen density higher than any computer but what it won't have is an actual physical keyboard. Sure, some people can type up a storm on the virtual keyboard, but for traditionalists Kensington is offering the KeyFolio Expert Multi Angle Folio & Keyboard and the KeyStand Compact Keyboard and Stand for the new iPad.

The KeyFolio Expert connects via Bluetooth and is meant for those who want the portability of the iPad but need the productivity of a physical keyboard. The "multi angle" part means the KeyFolio can adjust to suit where ever you are typing, from a table to your lap. The folio includes magnets, just like Apple's own Smart Cover, and lets you adjust the angle when open and protect your screen when closed.

The KeyStand is a less expensive alternative that's slim and easy to take with you anywhere. It also connects via Bluetooth and has a magnetic cover to protect your screen.

Both are available for pre-order now.

Ten One Design has just announced that it is working on a pressure sensitive Bluetooth 4.0 stylus for the next generation iPad 3. Ten One has a great reputation when it comes to accessories and this one looks to take that to the next level. The new stylus which is currently in development uses technology that has never been used before in an iPad stylus.

Using the latest Bluetooth 4.0 standards’ enables Ten One Design to create a stylus that is pressure sensitive. This basically means that it can represent a much truer pen like experience where a line is thicker or darker depending on the pressure made with the sylus. As the iPad screen is capacitive, it can’t distinguish how hard the screen has been pressed; just that it has been pressed. Ten One Design believes with the use of Bluetooth 4.0 this can now be made a reality.

The pen will offer full pressure sensitivity, palm rejection capability, lights, buttons and no need for Bluetooth pairing. There is already an SDK available which will allow app developers to immediate integrate support for the stylus in their apps. The pen will only work with iOS devices that have Bluetooth 4.0. Currently that is only the iPhone 4S however it is almost certain that the iPad 3 will have it too.

The pen still needs to garner FCC approval but Ten One Design is hanging back on full production until it believes that there is enough developer support for the product. If this works as advertised, that shouldn’t take very long!

Source: Ten One Design

The iPhone is the perfect companion for those looking to get into jogging or running, or those looking to keep their long-term training fun and fresh. Since it's health and Fitness month here at iMore and the Mobile Nations network, we're going to take a look a the very best accessories and apps that'll help you get the most out of your experience.

One important thing to remember before getting started is to always keep yourself properly hydrated when going on a run. Keeping a water bottle with you is a great idea, but if you can't, make sure to get a good amount of hydration during your warmup and cool down periods. The fact is, when you run, you sweat. A lot. Whether it's just a quick jog or a long, 10-15 mile run, proper hydration is absolutely essential to keeping your body going without over-stressing your cardiovascular system.

Tune Belt Sport Armband for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S

The Tune Best Armband is the best armband out there for both heavy running and light jogging. It features a protective window cover and washable material, with support for right side up or upside down orientation to match every type of workout you can imagine. Attach it to your arm or even your thigh with the EX3 length extender pushing it beyond the default 9-17 inch adjustment options if needed (EX3 sold separately). The dual-orientation also makes for a more convenient way to access your iPhone without requiring you to remove it from the armband. Just extend your arm up to eye level, and you can navigate through your iPhone without the hassle of stopping, removing it from the case, and tapping through to what you need.

The great thing about the Tune Best Armband is the stretchable form-fitting material, which supports newer iPhone models as well as the older, bulkier iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS. You'll never have to stress about your iPhone being exposed to water damage if you're running out in the rain or snow with the water-proof design, and the protective front cover ensures a scratch-resistant environment in case you happen to slip or fall while you're out on a jog in less than ideal weather.

For safety nuts, the Tune Best Armband includes a highly reflective logo for night jogging, and you won't have to worry about your earbud cord getting in the way with the built-in cord organizer. Just wrap your earbud cable around the flap for a tangle-free experience! For runners, the Tune Belt Sport Armband is definitely the way to go.

• Protective cover with waterproof design
• Earbud cord organizer for tangle-free running
• Form fitting to older iPhones
• Reflective logo for safety

Polk Audio UltraFit sports headphones

There's nothing worse than headsets that fall or flop out of your ears when you're running. It completely takes you out of the zone and leaves you fumbling for your music rather than focusing on your run. Enter UltraFit, a range of high performance headsets specifically engineered to stay in your ears, even if you're running cross-country (or jumping on a trampoline!)

Polk offers both cheaper and premium alternatives, and because of the design, the UltraFit don't block out all noise -- so you can hear cars getting close or friends complaining when you leave them in the dust. The hire end models also include remote controls on the cables to easily control your audio apps without fussing with your iPhone.

• Tangle free, planar cables
• SecureFit to stay in place
• Moisture shields
• Two cable choices, 14 and 41-inches

RunKeeper

RunKeeper is quite possibly the best app out there for runners. RunKeeper uses the GPS included in the iPhone to measure distance, elevation, duration, speed and pace of your run, and more. It also follows your routes on a map and gives you the ability to plan your route ahead of time, giving you a much better overall idea of how easy or difficult your run will be -- all before even getting started! RunKeeper also comes with the following features:

• Social Network Sharing
• Personalized Dashboard
• Target Pace with built-in coaching (via headphones)
• Interval workouts/runs

The app also includes full iPod integration, so you won't have to jump out of the app and into music library in order to change tracks or switch to another playlist.

In addition, RunKeeper includes audio prompts that cycle through your headphones to give you information and updates on your run without any user input required. If you're new to running or if you've been running for a while, RunKeeper is definitely the first app you'll want to look into.

Get Running (Couch to 5K)

Get Running is an app for new runners. This little gem of an app will get you running for a full 30 minutes, non-stop, by integrating three daily workouts over a nine-week period, starting slow and building up to the ability to finish a full 5K run!

• Social Sharing
• Set up a personalized plan
• iPod integration for working with or without your music
• Full activity and achievement log

Get Running is the only 5K running app that coaches you up like an actual human coach would, so you'll feel more motivated to keep progressing as you go through the program. By encouraging you to keep moving forward, you'll be able to run a full 5K stretch in no time!

If you're new to running and want to make the process a bit less scary, Get Running is the app for you!

iMapMyRun+

iMapMyRun is a more basic running app that does exactly what the title implies. It maps your run and gives you information related to your run, such as pace, distance, caloric output, nutrition information, elevation, heart rate stats and features a live route map update in real-time as you go.

The app offers great social integration as well, so if you're into building up your bragging rights amongst fellow runners, iMapMyRun+ offers an always up-to-date list of the latest runs you or your friends have been on.

Just like RunKeeper, iMapMyRun+ features voice prompts to update you with all of these stats on-the-go so you don't have to stop and check the app to see how you're doing. You also have the option of posting bragging rights to Twitter and Facebook if you want to keep your friends up to date on how you're doing. It also includes full iPod integration with a GPS camera. The free app comes with ads, so you'll have to purchase the full app if you don't want that to become an annoyance for you.

Now get running!

Whether you're new to jogging or are a seasoned marathoner, there are tons of great iPhone apps and accessories will help you to be the best runner you can possibly be. I've been using these apps and accessories to help get in shape, and I couldn't have picked a better device to assist in the process. The iPhone -- paired with these apps and accessories -- is the perfect solution for running and jogging.

If you have any additional accessories or apps that you consider the best-of-the-best, make sure to mention them in the comments below. And if you’re joining us for Mobile Nations Fitness Month, and running or jogging is your exercise of choice, jump into our Health & Fitness Forum and work out with us!