Smartphones have replaced a truly astounding number of things in everyday life, from cameras to calculators, and alarm clocks to wallets; and, based on the current state of foldables, ereaders – such as Amazon‘s ever-popular Kindle line – could be next.
The ereader is a great product in its own right, able to store an entire library’s worth of literature. What’s more, advancements in the category have lead to higher-resolution displays, tonal backlights for easier-on-the-eye late-night reading, longer battery life, faster charging, and even water resistance – ensuring that your poolside progress through that steamy new romance novel remains unimpeded when the noisy kids two sun-loungers down try to outdo one another in a game of ‘cannonball’.
But as innovative as such ereader advancements might seem in a vacuum, smartphones – even though they lack the same specializations – are otherwise already several steps ahead on a technical level, and closing the gap on the traits that define Kindles and the like as the superior reading gadgets.
When it comes to legibility in bright conditions, smartphone screen tech is catching up with ereaders (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
I first came to this realization when the original iPad launched. Being able to see comics in full color on a large-but-portable high-fidelity backlit LCD was a truly revelatory experience at the time, and one that made me question my Kindle loyalty, even then. More recently, however, it’s the OnePlus Open which has been the device to show me a viable ereading future beyond my trusty Kindle Oasis.
For one, even Amazon’s best Kindles haven’t yet ventured into color visuals and, personally, being able to enjoy full-fidelity cover art makes a real difference to the excitement of starting a new book. Sure, the newly-launched Kobo Libra Color and Kobo Clara Color‘s Kaleido 3 E Ink displays are impressive in their ability to display 4,096 hues, but compared to the Open’s one billion color-capable AMOLED, there’s no contest.
Of course, color visuals alone do not a superior viewing experience make, but the OnePlus Open doesn’t stop there, screen-wise. It’s also impressively bright, offering one of the brightest foldable displays currently on the market, which means it’s one of the best screens for reading in bright conditions, in spite of the display technology at play. And while the Open may not have the perfect riposte to an E Ink display, other phone makers are now pushing technologies that could soon see smartphone outdoor legibility right up there with your Kindle’s.
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
TCL 50 XL NxtPaper in Ink Paper mode
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
TCL 50 XL NxtPaper in True Tone mode
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
TCL 50 XL NxtPaper in Color Paper mode
Along with the obvious suite of spec bumps the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has received, one of the less appreciated upgrades is the reduced reflectivity of its display, which the company has managed to cut by a impressive 75%. Then there’s TCL‘s NxtPaper technology, which having seen first-hand on the TCL 50 XL NxtPaper, I think could be the answer to the prayers of those who want a device that has E Ink-like legibility and low reflectivity, while also offering the traditional benefits of a full-color backlit smartphone screen.
While the Open has an Eye Comfort mode that allows for warmer color temperatures and monochromatic viewing, Xiaomi takes the experience on its phones one step further by including a texture slider in its Paper reading mode that simulates a more paper-like grain on-screen. While I haven’t verified the science, personal opinion and anecdotal evidence from other users online suggests that it ups the ease of reading even further.
Then there’s the form factor to consider – a foldable may be thicker than a Kindle, but it offers a similarly sized display while being able to collapse down into a far more compact (and more pocketable) footprint. And although battery life is still measured in days, rather than weeks – because of those countless other things smartphones are equipped to do – 67W fast charging is on-hand to refill the Open in around 30 minutes, while Kindles take an hour or more to charge.
So, while there’s still work to do in the quest to make the foldable smartphone the one device to rule them all, the chapter in which you pack your phone and your Kindle before your next long-haul flight or weekend away may be coming to an end.
As TechRadar’s Cameras Editor I see all kinds of weird and wonderful devices for capturing stills and video, but just when I thought I’d seen it all, the Nons SL660 popped up in my YouTube feed and piqued my curiosity. It’s an instant camera, but not as we know it, being an angular hunk of metal – an SLR with passive Canon EF lens mount, that captures to readily available Fujifilm Instax Square film.
Nons makes two lenses that are directly compatible with the SL660’s Canon EF lens mount – a 35mm f/2.8 and a 50mm f/1.8 – plus a range lens adaptors for other popular SLR lens mounts, including Nikon F and Pentax K. When I requested a loan sample from Nons for this feature, I asked for the Canon EF to Nikon F adaptor because I own a few excellent Nikon lenses, including the full-frame Nikon 20mm f/2.8D AF.
There’s also a Nons SL645, camera, and the key difference between that model and the SL660 is that it records onto Instax Mini film instead. Personally, I much prefer the size of Instax Square prints (and the larger-still Polaroid film even more), so the SL660 was the obvious choice for review.
The ‘correct’ orientation to shoot with the Nons SL660. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Unlike most simple point-and-shoot instant cameras that only offer auto exposure, the Nons SL660 is SLR by design, and entirely manual in operation. You’ll need to select the shutter speed and lens aperture, with an exposure meter above the lens telling you what aperture to use with the selected shutter speed. Your frame is viewed through a pentaprism viewfinder, focus is manual, and you even have to manually eject the print when you’ve taken the shot – a feature that enables multi-exposure shooting.
This is truly a photographer’s instant camera, and to that end you can swap lenses to mix up the type of shots you can make. It’s also one of, if not the most, expensive instant cameras available. It’s pricier because it’s made of tough metal and in smaller batches versus the standard plastic used in most other mass-produced instant cameras like the Fujifilm Instax SQ40; the Nons SL660 is an altogether different camera to those, and the high-end build quality goes some way towards justifying the significant outlay.
The SL660 is a bulky and heavy instant camera, and the image quality it’s capable of producing is ultimately limited by the Instax Square film it uses – you will, for example, need an ND filter in bright light. Despite its constraints, I’m charmed by it, and I suspect that of all the best instant cameras you can buy, the Nons SL660 is the one that photographer me will come back to again and again.
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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Nons SL660: price and release date
The Nons SL660 camera alone costs $599 / £603 from the Nons website or from Amazon, and with its passive Canon EF lens mount it’s best suited to manual-control Canon EF lenses. If you use modern Canon EF lenses you might sacrifice aperture control (if your lens doesn’t have an aperture ring) and even manual focus control (‘STM’ lenses). You can also purchase the SL660 as a bundle with the 35mm f/2.8 lens for $709 / £717, with the 50mm f/1.8 lens for $649 / £660, or with any one of a number of lens adaptors for $609 / £615. This high-end pricing pits the SL660 firmly against the Polaroid I-2 – the two cameras are in a different league to point-and-shoot instant cameras. Pricing for the Nons SL645 starts at $539 / £541. We’ll update this review if and when pricing and availability for Australia are confirmed.
Nons SL660: design
Images of the Nons SL660 online didn’t prepare me for what I set my eyes on when unboxing the gear – this looks like no other instant camera. It’s a love it or hate it brutalist block of aluminum with defined features: a genuine wooden grip, a crank to engage the viewfinder, a pronounced shutter button, and striking shutter speed dial.
There’s an optical viewfinder with through-the-lens display, so the perspective is correct to the attached lens. The display is dim, but I like its grainy filmic quality. There’s a portion of your instant print that you don’t see through the viewfinder display – when shooting with the thick border at the bottom of your Instax Square print, the unseen section is to the left. It takes a couple of shots to get used to this, and thereafter you can factor this in to make the best possible composition.
To shoot the ‘correct’ way, with the thicker border positioned at the bottom of your print, you need to flip the camera 90 degrees with the grip at the top – vertical if you will – otherwise the thick border will be on the left-hand side of your print, which looks weird unless that’s your intention.
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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
The Nons SL660 is powered by an internal battery topped up via USB-C (using the supplied USB-C to USB-A cable, not just any USB-C cable) and is rated for around 100 shots on a full charge. A tiny top LCD displays battery life along with the number of prints remaining in the inserted film pack (the shot counter failed in my review sample after a couple of packs of film), plus the aperture setting needed on your lens to get the correct exposure for the selected shutter speed, based on the camera’s exposure metering.
If you’re shooting in bright light you’ll need an ND filter for your lens, or else your shots will be overexposed – a 3EV to 7EV variable ND is perfect. The Nons 35mm f/2.8 lens I had has a 52mm thread. Because the exposure meter is separate to the lens (ie., not TTL), you’ll need to calculate the exposure settings based on the strength of the filter, or place it in front of the meter to get the reading first, and then attach it to the lens. The ‘reflective’ exposure meter calculates an evaluative reading for the whole frame.
By today’s standards the Nons SL660 is awkward to hold, and by heck is it chunky, primarily because it needs that extra depth for the Canon EF-mount flange focal distance. This is no pocket camera. It’s also a paradox – a custom-made one-of-a-kind feel, yet it captures onto the most popular and accessible instant film. I had several packs of regular Instax Square film for this review, and there are a few readily available alternatives, like a monochrome film, too.
Stylistically I like the pronounced shutter button. However, it’s all too easy to press it unintentionally, which results in a wasted print. I almost lost that screw-on button, too, as it unthreaded itself more than once. The reason that the button is detachable in the first place is to allow you to swap it out for a cable release for hands-free operation, which is neat, but a tighter thread is needed for a secure fix.
Nons SL660: performance
Long before I’d received the Nons SL660 or taken any shots with it, I had formed a certain expectation regarding the quality of instant prints it could make. After all, it comes with a proper Nons lens, plus, in my case, I can use it with some excellent Nikon lenses. Rival instant cameras like the Instax SQ40 are restricted to a built-in, low-cost lens.
Surely, then, the instant photos made with the Nons SL660 would be superior to anything else before it? Well, yes and no. Despite the superior optics, we’re still shooting onto the same film type – an ISO800 stock with limited dynamic range. Also, the print area of Instax Square film only measures 62mm x 62mm, and so it’s hardly big enough to really show off lens quality.
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Rather than outright image quality, the real appeal of the SL660 over cheaper and simpler rivals, besides its unique design, is that you can swap out lenses and therefore mix up the focal length and perspective of your shots. Unfortunately, my telephoto macro lens for Nikon F-mount lacks an aperture ring, and I was unable to get a good shot with it. Get the right manual lens, however, and great fun can be had.
Almost all the instant photos I took with the SL660 for this review were taken with the Nons 35mm f/2.8 lens. For full exposure control when adapting an alternative lens, like I did through the Nikon F-mount adaptor, you need a lens with aperture control. That counts out most modern DSLR lenses from Canon, Nikon and Pentax. When using a Nikon lens without an aperture ring, the aperture is automatically set to its smallest setting, while some Canon lenses are set to their widest aperture setting. (I also had a great struggle removing the adaptor ring from my Nikon lens after use.) Besides Nons’ own lenses, an old Canon EF lens with aperture ring makes the most practical sense.
To get prints with the correct brightness, I needed to experiment a little to understand the behaviour of the SL660’s auto-exposure metering. If you follow the suggested aperture settings to a tee, then prints tend to come out a little dark for my liking, but when I increased the exposure by around 1EV, by opening the aperture up or halving the shutter speed, the results were better.
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Apply this knowledge about the camera’s exposure metering and most your shots will come out fine. However, alternatives like the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 shoot in auto-exposure only, with a built-in auto flash, and with those cameras you’ll get fewer wasted prints.
You also need to understand the limitations of Fujifilm Instax film. It has an ISO 800 sensitivity rating, which is bang on with the fastest possible 1/250 sec shutter speed and f/4 aperture (approx) when shooting in cloudy weather, but when the sun comes out you need to stop the aperture right down, to nearer f/22 or even beyond the limit of the lens.
I prefer the look when shooting with a wider aperture, not least to make subjects stand out better, but also in this case for a brighter and clearer view through the viewfinder (it gets dimmer as you reduce the aperture size), and so a ND filter is a must-have accessory – otherwise the SL660 is practically unusable in bright light.
There’s also a hard limit on the dynamic range of the film – if you shoot scenes with high contrast, like a backlit portrait or a white overcast sky, you’ll need to choose between a brightness for highlights or shadows; you can’t have both. An ideal scenario is even lighting: soft sunlight on your subject and background, or at least a darker background so the subjects pops.
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
There’s a standard hotshoe to attach an optional flash. Nons doesn’t sell its own flash, nor did I use the SL660 with a flash for this review – that’s a whole other creative technique I look forward to exploring with this camera. I’ve complained about certain Fujifilm Instax cameras with built-in flash in the past because some models auto-fire the flash for every photo you take, whether you need it or not. However, that’s a better option than the SL660, which has no built-in flash at all – at least you can cover an Instax camera’s flash with your finger when it’s not needed.
Once your shot is ready, you hard-press the eject button and out pops the print. This manual-eject control also enables a multi-exposure function. You’ll need to recalculate the correct exposure for each shot depending what’s in each frame, and the results can be excellent if you know what you’re doing, or at least be prepared to waste a print or two experimenting. For example, I shot a self-portrait silhouette against a bright sky in one exposure, and then another one of closeup details of flowers that visibly populates the silhouette – a classic double-exposure effect.
Overall, if you’re using the Nons SL660 with the 35mm f/2.8 lens without ND filter or flash, it’s fairly limited as to what scenes it’s suitable for. But if you’re equipped with accessories and willing to experiment, great results can be achieved.
Should I buy the Nons SL660?
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Buy it if…
Don’t buy it if…
How I tested the Nons SL660
(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
I had the Nons SL660 SLR instant camera for a couple of months, and I went through a fair few packs of regular Instax Square film. For the majority of the review I used the Nons 35mm f/2.8 lens, although I did adapt a couple of my Nikon F-mount lenses with mixed success.
Testing the camera in a variety of lighting conditions that ranged from sunny weather to indoors, I experimented with various shutter speeds and lens apertures, and took both single-shot and multi-exposure photos. I’ve not used the Nons SL660 with a hotshoe mounted flash, nor used the bulb mode or attached a cable release.
The iPhone continues to be overwhelmingly popular with teens, according to Piper Sandler’s biannual teen survey. 85 percent of U.S. teens surveyed own an iPhone, and 86 percent plan to purchase an iPhone as their next smartphone.
While the iPhone is still the most popular smartphone among teens, ownership is down from the October 2023 survey where 87 percent of teens owned an iPhone and 88 percent planned to purchase one.
Both the 85% iPhone ownership and 86% intention to purchase an iPhone metrics are near record highs for our survey but down from record levels in 2021. We believe the elevated penetration and purchase intention are important given the mature premium smartphone market. Additionally, trends towards premium tier phones are encouraging as the company continues to introduce new iPhones proving the overall stickiness of the product portfolio. Finally, positive trends in services could follow, as the install base for Apple hardware continues to grow.
Apple’s dominance in the teen market is of particular interest right now because it is one metric that the U.S. Department of Justice is targeting in its antitrust lawsuit against Apple.
The DoJ has suggested that Apple’s ownership of the U.S. smartphone market causes “social stigma, exclusion, and blame” for non-iPhone users, with “green bubble” chats and issues between iPhone and Android message users cited as a specific example. The DoJ claims that this is “particularly powerful” for teenagers, and that “social pressure” causes teens to switch to the iPhone.
The antitrust lawsuit also suggests that Apple’s marketshare among “key demographics” like “younger audiences” is an issue that gives Apple too much power over the smartphone ecosystem.
As for the Apple Watch, 34 percent of teens reported using an Apple Watch, with no change from last fall. Intent to buy an Apple Watch was up three percent, however, with 13 percent of teens planning to buy one in the next six months. Only 39.4 percent of teens said they own a smart watch, so teens are also overwhelmingly preferring the Apple Watch to other smart watch brands. The Apple Watch was the top watch brand, with Rolex and Casio coming in second and third, respectively.
Teens prefer Spotify as their music service, and nearly two-thirds of teens surveyed said Spotify is their preferred service. Just over 30 percent of teens said they use Apple Music. Apple TV+ is not popular with teen audiences, and less than five percent of teens said they watch it on a daily basis. Comparatively, over 30 percent of teens watch Netflix regularly, and close to 30 percent watch YouTube.
Apple Pay was the most popular payment platform with 44 percent of teens using it in the last month, but Cash app and Venmo are preferred for peer-to-peer money transfers.
Piper Sandler surveyed 6,020 teens across 47 U.S. states for its spring 2024 report.
Microsoft could be reworking a major part of the Start menu in Windows 11, or at least there are changes hidden in testing right now which suggest this.
As flagged up by a regular contributor of Windows leaks, PhantomOfEarth on X (formerly Twitter), the Start menu could end up with a very different layout for the ‘All apps’ panel.
A Start menu update that could be coming soon: an updated All apps page in the Start menu, which displays apps in a grid of icons instead of a vertical list. pic.twitter.com/o8EYjf17UfMarch 30, 2024
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Currently, this presents a list of all the applications installed on your system in alphabetical order, but if this change comes to fruition, the panel will be switched to a grid-style layout (as shown in the above tweet) rather than a long list.
Note that this move is not visible in preview testing yet, and the leaker had to dig around in Windows 11 – a preview build in the Beta channel specifically – to find it (using ViVeTool, a configuration utility).
Analysis: 10X better?
What this means is that you’ll be able to see a lot more of the installed software in the ‘All apps’ panel at one time, with a whole host of icons laid out in front of you in said grid, rather than having a list with a very limited number of icons in comparison.
On the flipside, this looks a bit busier and less streamlined, with the alphabetical list being neater. Also, some have noted the resemblance to Windows 10X with this hidden change (which might provoke unwelcome OS flashbacks for some).
As ever, some might lean towards the list of installed apps, or some may not, and prefer the new grid-based view instead – which leads us to our next point: why not offer a choice of either layout, based on the user’s preference? A simple toggle somewhere could do that trick.
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We shall see what happens, but bear in mind that this grid layout concept might go precisely nowhere in the end. Microsoft could just be toying with the idea, and then abandon it down the line, before even taking it live in testing.
If we do see it go live in Windows 11 preview builds, odds are it’ll be incoming maybe with Windows 11 24H2 later this year – fingers crossed with that mentioned toggle.
The Bose Smart 600 soundbar is easily one of the best soundbars we’ve ever tested, giving you Dolby Atmos sound and plenty of wireless streaming options in a compact size, all for an affordable price.
With the arrival of the Amazon Big Spring Sale, the Bose Smart 600 soundbar just got more affordable as it’s on sale for a brilliant $449 (was $499) at Amazon. It’s not just the Bose Smart 600 soundbar either – Amazon is offering larger discounts across a range of Bose products.
In our review of the Bose Smart Soundbar 600, we said “it offers up consistently exciting sound when watching movies and TV”, praising its clear dialogue and wide soundstage that presents Dolby Atmos and surround sound effects well “extending above and beyond” the action on screen.
Movies and TV shows aren’t only where the Bose 600’s strength lies, it’s also an excellent performer with music. With plenty of wireless music streaming support from some of the best music streaming services such as Spotify, Amazon Music and more, we said the “imaging it manages with stereo music is surprisingly wide and precise”.
Overall, the Bose 600 is also a solidly-built, compact bar, measuring 27 x 2 x 4 (inches), that is ideal for those lacking in space but not wanting to lose out on sound.
On a typical day in his clinic, London-based optometrist Michael Crossland assesses both young children and centenarians with low vision. Severe vision impairment affects 350 million people around the world, many of whom in poorer countries lack access to any eye care. His fascinating, sometimes moving, account — mixing ophthalmology with the stories of his patients and many others — reveals that life with vision impairment can be “just as rich and rewarding as life with 20/20 vision”.
Literary Theory for Robots
Dennis Yi Tenen W. W. Norton (2024)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rooted in the humanities, argues Dennis Yi Tenen, a comparative-literature professor and former Microsoft engineer. Chatbots are trained using electronic versions of tools such as “dictionaries, style guides, schemas, story plotters [and] thesauruses” that were historically part of the collective activity of writing. Indeed, a statistical model called the Markov chain, crucial to AI, arose from an analysis of vowel distribution in poems by Alexander Pushkin. Tenen’s cogitation is a witty, if challenging, read.
The Last of Its Kind
Gísli Pálsson Princeton Univ. Press (2024)
Living species could never become extinct, thought naturalist Carl Linnaeus. Charles Darwin disagreed, saying extinction was a natural process. Then ornithologists John Wolley and Alfred Newton began studying great auks, flightless birds living on remote islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. They visited Iceland in 1858 to see great auks, but instead met locals who described killing off the birds — revealing how humans could extinguish a species. Anthropologist Gísli Pálsson tells the engaging story of this “key intellectual leap”.
All Mapped Out
Mike Duggan Reaktion (2024)
Cultural geographer Mike Duggan works in partnership with the UK national mapping agency, Ordnance Survey, to study everyday digital-mapping practices. Important as it is, digital mapping is not superseding analogue maps, he observes in his global history of cartography, which begins with Palaeolithic carvings. Sales of Ordnance Survey paper maps are rising, perhaps because of their convenience. “Although digital maps are improving constantly in accuracy and design, they do not always live up to those promises.”
The Neuroscience of Bach’s Music
Eric Altschuler Academic (2024)
Physician and neuroscientist Eric Altschuler regards J. S. Bach as the greatest composer ever, as do many others. Altschuler’s pioneering study — illustrated with numerous musical examples — aims to show how Bach-centred neuroscience “can help us better appreciate perceptual and cognitive affects in Bach” and create better performances of the composer’s work. It also teaches us how music perception is not localized to one region of the brain but occurs throughout it, and varies from person to person.
Apple’s refreshed MacBook Air laptops are finally here, and they’re toting shiny new M3 chips. This week, Cherlynn chats with Devindra about his review of the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air M3. They’re faster, as we expected, but they’re also not a huge leap over the M2 MacBook Air, which now starts at $999. (And we’re sure you’ll find some excellent refurbished and used deals soon.) No matter which one you pick, though, you’re getting one of the most stunning ultraportable notebooks around. In other news, we discuss Apple’s nearly $2 billion fine from the EU, Microsoft’s upcoming Surface AI event and the death of Android apps on Windows 11.
Listen below or subscribe on your podcast app of choice. If you’ve got suggestions or topics you’d like covered on the show, be sure to email us or drop a note in the comments! And be sure to check out our other podcast, Engadget News!
Topics
Finally, the MacBook Air gets an M3 update – 0:41
EU fines Apple nearly $2 billion for “blocking” competing music apps – 15:27
iOS 17.4 brings third party app stores to the EU, podcast transcription for everyone – 20:18
Microsoft announces a Surface and AI event for later in March – 22:02
No more (Amazon App Store) Android apps in Windows – 27:49
Developer of Switch emulator Yuzu fined $2.4 million to settle suit with Nintendo – 39:19
Around Engadget: Sam Rutherford’s Nothing Phone 2 review – 46:17
Working on – 50:30
Pop culture picks – 57:47
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If you are looking for some useful iPhone Shortcuts, we have an awesome video from iRveiews that walks us through 15 shortcuts you need to try out. iPhone users are constantly on the lookout for ways to streamline their daily tasks and enhance productivity. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or someone who appreciates a good hack to save time, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several iPhone shortcuts designed to simplify your life.
These shortcuts are not just about cutting corners; they’re about optimizing your interaction with your device for a more efficient and tailored experience. Let’s delve into these 15 awesome iPhone shortcuts that you should incorporate into your routine.
Clipster: This handy tool transforms the way you manage your iPhone’s clipboard. Imagine being able to store, edit, and manage up to five clipboard items. Clipster offers a seamless way to keep track of important snippets of text or links you come across throughout the day.
Flashlight Timer: Gone are the days of leaving your flashlight on by mistake. With this shortcut, set a timer for your flashlight, ensuring it turns off automatically after a set duration. It’s a simple yet effective solution for saving battery life.
Remove Background: Enhance your photos by effortlessly removing and replacing their background. This shortcut not only allows you to adjust the subject’s position but also its rotation and transparency, offering creative control over your images.
QR Code Generator: Sharing information has never been easier. Generate QR codes for images, URLs, Wi-Fi passwords, or plain text with just a tap, facilitating quick and easy data transfer.
Translate My Screenshot: For the polyglots or travelers among us, this shortcut is a game-changer. Instantly translate text captured in screenshots to your chosen language, supporting a wide array of languages for global communication.
Dictate to Notes: Convert spoken words into text with unparalleled ease. This shortcut is perfect for capturing thoughts, reminders, or meeting notes hands-free, ensuring you don’t miss a beat.
Shorten URL: Simplify sharing by shortening URLs directly from Safari’s share sheet. This feature is invaluable for those who regularly share web content, making long links more manageable.
Clear Out Photos: Tidy up your photo library by quickly selecting and deleting unwanted images. This shortcut is a boon for freeing up storage space and keeping your gallery organized.
Charge Time: Estimate how long it will take to fully charge your iPhone. This information can help manage your charging times more effectively, ensuring your device is powered up when you need it.
Email Myself: Streamline the process of sending content to yourself. This shortcut enables you to quickly email notes, links, or files from the share sheet, perfect for personal archiving or reminder settings.
Phone Menu: Access advanced options like charging boost mode and super low power mode. These settings can significantly improve charging efficiency and extend your battery life, offering more power when you need it most.
Network Tool: Dive deep into Wi-Fi network analytics with this shortcut. Get detailed information, perform speed tests, and even share your Wi-Fi via QR code, making it easier to connect and diagnose network issues.
Search On: Search across multiple platforms, including Google, Twitter, YouTube, and eBay, with a single shortcut. This feature streamlines your search process, saving time and effort when looking for specific information.
Set Volume: Preset your iPhone’s volume to a specific percentage quickly. This is particularly useful for setting the right volume for different environments or ensuring consistency in audio playback.
Turn Text into Audio: Convert text into an audio file, allowing you to listen to written content on-the-go. This shortcut is ideal for consuming articles, emails, or documents audibly, making multitasking a breeze.
By integrating these iPhone shortcuts into their daily routine, iPhone users can significantly improve their interaction with their device. These tools are designed to offer simple yet effective solutions for common needs, enhancing productivity and convenience. As technology continues to evolve, embracing these shortcuts can help you stay ahead, making your iPhone more efficient and tailored to your lifestyle.
Source & Image Credit: iReviews
Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone
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Every year provides an opportunity to celebrate and express your love for that special someone in your life. Whether it’s a romantic partner, a close friend, or a family member, finding the perfect gift can be a heartfelt way to convey your feelings. In 2023, let’s explore some of the best gift ideas that will make your loved one’s heart swell with joy and appreciation.
Food & Drink Gifts
Incorporating food and drink into your gift-giving can be a delightful way to connect with your loved one and create memorable experiences. Here are some delicious and thoughtful food and drink gift ideas for 2023:
Gourmet Gift Baskets: Treat your loved one to a gourmet gift basket filled with an assortment of delectable treats. These baskets can include artisanal cheeses, chocolates, nuts, and fine wines, making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. You can even create a delicious sweet hamper from https://sweethampercompany.co.uk/ for someone special with a sweet tooth.
Wine or Whiskey Tasting Experience: For wine or whiskey enthusiasts, consider booking a tasting experience at a local vineyard or distillery. It’s an opportunity to savor exceptional beverages while learning about the nuances of each variety.
Cooking Class: Sign up for a cooking class together. It’s a fun way to bond over a shared love for food and discover new culinary skills. Choose a class that focuses on a cuisine you both enjoy or one that introduces you to a new culinary tradition.
Personalized Recipe Book: Compile your favorite recipes or family recipes into a beautifully designed cookbook. Add personal anecdotes and stories behind each dish to create a meaningful culinary keepsake.
Coffee or Tea Subscription: If your loved one is a coffee or tea connoisseur, a subscription that delivers freshly roasted coffee beans or exotic tea blends to their doorstep every month can be a delightful gift.
Wine Club Membership: Joining a wine club allows your loved one to receive curated selections of wines throughout the year. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, offering the opportunity to explore new vintages and varietals.
Culinary Adventure: Surprise your loved one with a reservation at a renowned restaurant or plan a culinary adventure to explore a new cuisine. Dining out at a unique and highly-rated eatery can be a memorable experience.
Home-Cooked Dinner: Sometimes, the most cherished gift is a homemade meal prepared with love. Plan a special dinner at home, complete with their favorite dishes and a beautifully set table.
Chocolate Tasting: For chocolate lovers, arrange a chocolate-tasting session with an assortment of high-quality chocolates from around the world. Pair them with wine or champagne for an indulgent treat.
DIY Cocktail Kit: Create a DIY cocktail kit with premium spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Include a cocktail recipe book for them to experiment with and perfect their mixology skills.
Artisanal Food Subscription: Explore subscription services that offer a variety of artisanal foods, such as cheeses, charcuterie, or exotic snacks. It’s a great way to discover unique flavors from different regions.
Homemade Treats: If you have culinary skills, prepare a batch of your loved one’s favorite homemade treats, such as cookies, brownies, or preserves. Package them in a charming gift box with a heartfelt note.
Food and drink gifts have a way of bringing people together and creating memorable moments. Whether you’re sharing a gourmet meal, sipping fine wine, or cooking up a storm together, these gifts are delightful to the taste buds, nourish the soul, and strengthen the bonds of love and appreciation.
Self Care Gifts
In a fast-paced world, taking time for self-care is essential for overall well-being. Consider gifting your loved one items that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and self-indulgence. Here are some thoughtful self-care gift ideas for 2023:
Spa Gift Set: Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with a luxurious spa gift set. Include scented candles, bath oils, bath bombs, and plush towels. It’s a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day.
Aromatherapy Diffuser: An aromatherapy diffuser can fill their space with soothing scents, promoting relaxation and stress relief. Include a set of essential oils with calming fragrances like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile.
Yoga or Meditation Accessories: If your loved one practices yoga or meditation, consider gifting them high-quality yoga mats, meditation cushions, or soothing meditation music. These tools can enhance their mindfulness practice.
Wellness Journal: Encourage self-reflection and gratitude with a wellness journal. These journals often include prompts for daily mindfulness, gratitude lists, and goal setting.
Weighted Blanket: Weighted blankets are known for their therapeutic benefits, helping reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. Choose a blanket that matches their preferences for weight and material.
Soothing Teas and Infusions: Curate a collection of calming teas and herbal infusions, such as chamomile, peppermint, or relaxation blends. Pair them with a stylish tea infuser or teapot.
Guided Meditation App Subscription: Gift a subscription to a guided meditation app that offers a wide range of mindfulness and relaxation exercises. It’s a convenient way to access meditation practices anytime, anywhere.
Self-Care Books: Select a selection of self-help or self-care books that inspire personal growth and well-being. These books can provide valuable insights and strategies for self-improvement.
Scented Bathrobe: A plush, scented bathrobe can enhance their post-bath relaxation. Choose a robe infused with soothing scents like lavender or eucalyptus for an added touch of luxury.
Mindfulness Coloring Books: Adult coloring books with intricate designs and patterns can be a therapeutic and creative way to unwind. Pair them with a set of high-quality colored pencils or markers.
Gentle Exercise Equipment: Items like resistance bands, foam rollers, or a set of hand weights can encourage physical self-care and provide opportunities for gentle exercise at home.
Digital Detox Kit: As screens increasingly dominate, a digital detox kit can help your loved one disconnect and recharge. Include items like a book, puzzles, and a handwritten letter encouraging them to unplug.
Self-Care Subscription Box: Subscription boxes that curate self-care items, such as wellness items and relaxation tools, can be a delightful surprise delivered regularly to their doorstep.
Self-care gifts demonstrate your care and support for your loved one’s well-being. They encourage moments of mindfulness and relaxation, helping to reduce stress and promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. These gifts are not just material items; they’re tokens of love and encouragement for self-discovery and self-improvement.
Final Thoughts
The best gifts for someone you love in 2023 are those that reflect your thoughtfulness, appreciation, and the effort you put into understanding their desires and interests. Remember that the most cherished gifts are often the ones that come from the heart and symbolize the love and connection you share. Whether it’s a personalized keepsake, an experience to remember, or a meaningful letter, your gesture of love will undoubtedly be cherished and remembered for years to come.
Here is the page if you want to hear about Doublelist alternatives. We’ve prepared a list of ten such resources and offered in-depth assessments.
Because you are here, you are presumably already aware that fraudsters have found a way to exploit Doublelist. Spammers are regularly spamming this site with absurd and fake advertising.
Scammers and other Doublelist users rapidly discover any changes or moderations made to the site. It has gotten more challenging to locate a credible ad on this site, particularly in the “women seeking men” area. The administrators of Doublelist are working on a more rigorous security system to retrieve the lost data, and they aim to have it ready soon.
Meanwhile, explore the suggested links below, where you’ll discover classified advertisements and many dating options.
Related:How Technology is Impacting Online Dating
What is Doublelist?
It’s a classifieds-style online dating service encouraging chance connections and spontaneous partnerships. Personal advertising should be posted here by persons who are serious about meeting new people, dating, and forming meaningful relationships. This platform offers a straightforward and essential user experience.
You won’t be able to create a customized dating profile with picture albums and other bells and whistles since it isn’t a fully-featured, user-friendly service. Who precisely is this dating site targeted at? It caters to people seeking spiritual connections or one-night hookups.
How To Use Doublelist.com
All you need to do is sign in to the website. Ads will be everywhere. Select a city from the drop-down menu to see local ads. When hunting for a date, you may come across two categories of individuals. Let’s Date and Connect Now are two options.
There will be a “gay for straight,” “guys for guys,” and “women for guys” section, as well as a “dating miscellaneous” category, for example. You may look at advertisements without making an account. However, before you can submit advertisements, you must first join up and validate your account.
Most Popular Doublelist Cities
Below are the top most popular Doublelist Cities. You’ll never have a problem finding the most suitable partners.
Doublelist Chicago
Dublelist Tampa
Doublelist Denver
Doublelist Boston
Doublelist Phoenix
Doublelist Nashville
Doublelist Dallas
Doublelist Las Vegas
Top 10 Sites Like Doublelist
Below are the top 10 best sites like Doublelist:
WannaHookUp
WannaHookUp
WannaHookUp is not intended to be a serious dating site. Because the readership there is more similar to Doublelist’s, it is a better alternative. There are no adverts on this site. However, readers are open to new experiences and would love to meet in person. Furthermore, it offers regional dating choices.
WannaHookUp, like Doublist, has a large and diverse user base: over 1 million members in the United States alone, with over 250K weekly active users. You may get unlimited access to the site’s services for as low as $39.95. Nonetheless, there are several excellent zero-cost solutions. WannaHookUp’s best features include a fun dating service, advanced search filters, and enhanced security.
FreeAds Time
FreeAds Time
This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a replacement for Doublelist. FreeAdsTime includes some areas comparable to Doublelist, which may be more appealing to you as a result.
FreeAdsTime works with English-speaking nations and places where English is not the first language. If you believe you may identify your city, you should try it, and if you do, keep on. Use its simple interface and navigation to post a free image-based classified ad.
UkraineBride4You
UkraineBride4You
As the name suggests, it’s a place to meet lovely Ukrainian women. Women from other Eastern European countries are also accessible, so don’t limit yourself to Ukraine. On our dating service, you may discover thousands of eligible people from all around the globe. Signing up, creating a profile, and being verified will take you up to 10 minutes.
You can rapidly find the best shapes that meet your tastes in age, hobbies, physical type, and more using sophisticated search parameters.
Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison
Looking for Alternative Hookup Sites to Doublelist? Ashley Madison is currently regarded as one of the top websites accessible. It’s not a typical matching service, but it’s lovely for meeting new people on the site. It’s also more appealing and user-friendly than Doublelist. Ashley Madison stands out when compared to other clandestine affair dating sites.
This page contains further information. There are millions of individuals accessible for hookups and casual dating. Unfortunately, this isn’t a free classifieds website. Nonetheless, there are several zero-cost solutions. The bare minimum for joining an online dating service and receiving 100 monthly credits is $49. This dating service does not charge women seeking for men any fees.
FinderMaster
FinderMaster
If you’re searching for a good substitute for Doublelist, FinderMaster is your best bet. This should be examined with other top options. The website has adverts and classifieds for practically every product or service conceivable. You may use the maps supplied to explore the different regions and find the exact things you want. The website’s design is very user-friendly, with each area identified. Enter your search term into the Advanced Search Box, and the results will appear!
OneNightFriend
OneNightFriend
One Night Friend is an excellent place to start if you want a one-night encounter. Even though the profiles could be more detailed, most feature image galleries. The site’s one-of-a-kind matching services and effective search criteria make it simple to find a matched mate fast. The website also includes a roulette-style matching tool to assist users in finding their perfect companion.
However, the app’s intriguing features aren’t the only incentive. This business is well-known for its strict security protocols, which aid in preventing fraud and false accounts. Accounts may be validated in two ways: by email or by uploading a photo. It’s one of the most affordable alternatives for scheduling informal encounters, with daily rates starting at $0.54. Stop perusing personal ads on Doublelist and look for the most fascinating profiles on One Night Friend.
OneNightStand
OneNightStand
Even though it is not a classified ads website, One Night Stand is one of the most well-known casual dating websites. It’s not a standard personal site but an excellent Doublelist with profiles that seem like classified ads for real people. Not only does One Night Stand offer a sizeable single-user base, but it is also the best alternative to dating services like Doublelist and Craigslist Personals.
Please don’t dismiss the quality of this site due to its small size. On this website, all necessary safeguards have been taken to secure users’ personal information. When problems happen, you can always rely on the skilled support team for assistance. Not to add that starting your love story here won’t break the wallet. So, go to the home page and begin the registration and profile creation procedure. It just takes around 5 minutes to complete.
Adult Friend Finder
Adult Friend Finder
Doubelist has swiftly established itself as a reputable alternative to Craigslist Personals and other comparable sites. However, Doublelist may provide some of the most excellent options for casual encounters. Adult Friend Finder is the most comprehensive service of its type. What are we going to do with this website? It provides several options for singles like you to connect with others.
Is Adult Friend Finder equivalent to classified websites? It’s unusual, yet it works great for impromptu connections. This is one of the most popular dating apps, with over 80 million members. Some services are free, but the service shines when you join up for the premium, unlimited subscription for $10 per month. There are better ways to meet gorgeous people online than this dating app, but it is worth the cost.
Together2Night
Together2Night
What do you expect to see on a site like Together2Night? The website’s distinctive features and engaged user base set it apart. You may ensure that the individuals you’re communicating with are genuine by switching to “Full Safe Mode,” limiting your interactions to confirmed users. Search criteria allow you to hone down on the perfect date quickly.
To be validated, new users must have a photo and an email address. After that, you may look for the most suitable local singles. The simplicity with which local matches may be located is one of the benefits of using an online dating service.
BeNaughty
BeNaughty
Although it is not one of the most affordable hookup services accessible today, free membership provides access to a restricted range of functions. Craigslist and Doublelist are also complete with exciting individuals searching for casual connections. Sign up to quickly establish a new account.
Why is it regarded as a top dating platform? To begin with, it boasts a large user base, with over 120K new members added each week. Furthermore, there are other avenues of communication accessible. The website’s Satisfaction Policy distinguishes it, ensuring your money is not squandered. This is a paid dating site for men seeking women but free for women looking for men.
Conclusion
There’s no question that Doublelist was a good substitute for Craigslist Personals, but there are several better and more efficient dating services worth checking out. Browse the choices above to choose your perfect online dating site.
