5 Smooth Points About Gillette's New “Flexball” Razor (List)

The shaving industry is having a tough time of it lately. Beards are in, women aren't shaving anything else, and 'luxury' shaving products and shave clubs are becoming more and more popular. How will the major shaving companies compete? With... uh, balls?

1. You Will Not Have To Buy New Blades

First of all, to address the first concern, no, you will not have to throw out your Gillette Fusion five-bladed razors. This is essentially an update to the Fusion line, where you can pay $11.50 for the 'manual' version or $12.50 for the silly version that has a battery in it for no explicable reason. Seriously, why is there a battery in a razor that make it vibrate? At least the 'FlexBall' technology makes sense.

2. It Swivels A Lot More

Essentially, the key point here is that it swivels more. You know how, when you're trying to get at that last cluster of hairs on your face, you twist it up like you just ate a whole lemon? Gillette claims you no longer have to do that, and that you can fit their Flexballs into all those hard to reach little crevasses on your face as it rotates left and right as well as up and down. Yes, there are actual Flexballs in the handle. They are giant and orange. Yes, it looks silly.

Still, honestly, it's a pretty good idea. Every guy has this problem, and admittedly, it's minor, but hey, razor companies need to add features too.

3. That Adds Up To More Efficiency, In Theory

Gillette claims two improvements by making a more flexible razor. The first is that you'll miss 20% fewer hairs on your face, which for the hirsute is something fairly important. And it makes sense; if you're able to shave more efficiently, of course you'll get that hair that keeps growing between your nose and your cheek. The other claim is that the razor gets your stubble 23 microns shorter.

No, you are never going to notice 23 microns less on your face.

4. Supposedly These Are For Men Only

Which we've got to ask... really? Come on, why are you still maintaining this particular fiction? Every man has, at some point, used a 'women's' razor because that was what was there, just like every woman has, at some point, used her dad's or her brother's or her boyfriend's razor in a pinch. It's not like you soak them in testosterone before shipping them. It does somewhat emphasize how goofy shaving products are that they expect us to believe a sharp thin piece of steel won't cut you based on genetics.

5. It'll Be Available In June

You won't have to wait very long to test out Flexballs for yourself: They'll be arriving in mid-June and will likely be the subject of a heavy marketing push. We'll be curious to try them out, but by the same token, if you've subscribed to Dollar Shave Club, it's going to be hard to argue going back to Gillette, no matter how many balls they add to their products.

New Macbook Airs Are Official With Improved Haswell Processor And A $100 ...

Yesterday, a rumor hinted at the launch of the updated Macbook Airs, with minor hardware upgrades today, and it seems it was correct. Apple has updated the online store with the new Macbook Airs, and they feature the latest Haswell processors, along with a reduction in price and fast storage, which is definitely a great thing.

'With MacBook Air starting at $899, there's no reason to settle for anything less than a Mac,' said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. 'Macs have never been more popular, and today we've boosted the performance and lowered the price of MacBook Air so even more people can experience the perfect everyday notebook.'

The new Macbook Air comes with a faster 1.4GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 Haswell processor with 4GB of RAM on board, compared to the 1.3GHz processor found inside the previous iteration of the notebook. In conjunction with OS X Mavericks, the new 13-inch MacBook Air is capable of delivering up to 12 hours of battery life and the 11-inch MacBook Air up to 9 hours of battery life.

The build-to-order options include a 1.7 GHz Intel Core i7 processor with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.3 GHz, up to 8GB of memory and up to 512GB flash storage for both Macbook Air models.

Apple has decided to reduce the price of the new Macbook Air by a $100, which brings the price of the 11-inch base model down to $899, while the 13-inch Macbook starts with $999. The 256GB 11-inch Macbook Air costs $1,099, while the 13-inch model with the same storage space comes with a $1,199 price tag.

There aren't any significant changes in the notebooks, but it should kick things here and there when it comes to performance. We're expecting Apple to release a new, 12-inch Macbook in the coming months which will come with a redesign and more changes compared to the current models.

New Apple Macbook Airs Expected to Launch Tomorrow

Last week, there was rumor floating all over the internet that Apple will launch new Macbook Airs this week. According to a new report, Apple will launch the updated Macbook Airs as early as tomorrow. The folks at 9to5Mac mention the stock of the updated Macbook Airs have started arriving in large quantities at Apple stores across the country.

The new 11′ and 13′ Macbook Airs expected to debut tomorrow are going to be minor ones with a few hardware bumps, such as faster Haswell processors, storage tweaks, and a few other changes on board. The new 11-inch and 13-inch laptops are codenamed J41A and J43A, and comes with a slight change in the SKU labels. The 13-inch based model comes with a MD760LL/A SKU label, while the updated one which is rumored to hit retail tomorrow is knwn as 'MD760LL/A.'

The folks at 9to5Mac also received an alleged image, detailing the specifications of the 13-inch Macbook Air. The new model will come with a 1.4GHz Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost up to 2.7GHz, compared to the current one which features 1.3GHz Core i5 processor with Turbo boost up to 2.6Ghz.

Apple is also rumored to be working on a new, redesigned 12-inch Macbook Air, which will feature retina display, a faster processor, buttonless trackpad and a slimmer chassis. However, this version is expected to launch in the coming months, possibly at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) 2014 in June.

There's no official word from Apple, but if it's true, the online Apple store may go down for a little while so the company can add the product online. Stay tuned, we'll update you as soon as it gets official.

10 Luxury iPhone 5S Cases For The Baller 2014 (list)

You can find a decent iPhone 5s case for under $50, but if you want quality, you're going to have to shell out some extra $$$. But of that extra cash, you're going to get a luxury case with all the fixings! If you're tired of cheap cases and are looking for a quality case, we've rounded up some high-end options...even a $1,500-case for all you ballers out there.

10. Mapi Orion

Made of high-quality leather, the Mapi Orion ($90) is a flipper-style case with a twist: It allows you to prop up your iPhone horizontally or vertically.

9. Case-Mate Brilliance Case

Make a statement with the Brilliance Case from Case-Mate ($80) that fathers genuine crystal with premium leather accent.

8. Element Soft-Tec Wallet

New to the Element line is there wallet cases, with the Soft-Tec Wallet one of their newest. Made out of leather, it features a magnetic clasp, slots for a few cards and cash. It's available in a few different color options for $69.95.

7. Mapi Alinda + Smyrna

If you're looking for a swanky case then the Mapi Alinda + Smyrna ($80) is for you! The thin, leather case comes in a few different colors features a leather bound belt clip rotates 360 degrees so that you may access your cell phone to your liking.

6. Case-Mate Pearls

Beautiful cases come at a cost...take for instance the Case-Mate Pearls ($150) collection that features genuine mother of pearl that's contrasted with silver brushed aluminum. The interior finished liner provides a subtle cushion and elegant feel.

5. CalypsoCase Cabrio

Premium leather hugging your iPhone 5s is what you get with the CalypsoCase Cabrio series ($205). It comes in four different types - Adelaide Tranquility in black, Brooklyn Noon in a dark brown, Kyoto Sunrise in concrete purple and Boston Reef in green - will all featuring premium Italian leather, special micro fabrics and a new open design.

4. Smythson iPhone 5S Sleeve

A blend of colors and super smooth and grained leather give the Smythson iPhone 5s Sleeve a bit of contrast and justifies its $160.

3. Element Ronin Bocote Case

As the newest addition to the Element line, the Ronin Bocote Case ($179.95) a South American hardwood, Bocote, with each piece treated and then machined, inspected again and hand fitted to the precision crowns.

2. EXOvault EXO18 Titanium Pau Ferro Composite

If you have an unlimited budget to keep your iPhone 5s then the EXOvault EXO18 Titanium Pau Ferro Composite's $400 price tag won't scare you aways. The expensive case covers your iPhone 5S in elegant and strong phenolic resin composite core and Pau Ferro veneer, which is capped on the ends with Ti6Al4V Titanium, the ultimate metal.

1. Gresso Monaco M4

Ultimate luxury is a case with 18K white gold, genuine black leather and titanium grade 5 composite, which pretty much sums up the Gresso Monaco M4 case that sells for a whopping $1,500!

Apple Rumored To Launch New Macbook Airs Next Week

If you're in the market for a new Macbook Air, we suggest you should wait for a week or so as a new report from MacGeneration suggests Apple may launch its updated Macbook Air line up next week. The news came from a French blog MacGeneration, who mentioned 11-inch and 13-inch Macbook Air, which are long due for a refresh, might get updated next week.

The current Macbook Air line up was introduced at the 2013 Worldwide Developer Conference, and featured Intel's Haswell processor with faster PCI Express-based storage, and 802.11ac Wi-Fi. As far as the new Macbook Air is concerned, it is believed the laptop will come with a slight speed bump,and the latest Intel processor, along with a few other changes.

Some rumors earlier this year suggested Apple might introduce a Retina display in the upcoming Macbook Air laptops, similar to what the Cupertino company did with the Macbook Pro line up, but no such information was mentioned in the report from MacGeneration.

We're not sure if it's going to be next week or not, but the WWDC 2014 is scheduled for June, where we might see some information from Apple about its upcoming products. Rumors also suggest Apple might showcase the new iOS 8 mobile operating system at the event, as . Stay tuned, we'll update you as soon as more information pops up.

What do you think? Will see some new products from the Cupertino-based company next week?

Gadget Review: Triple Play from Viatek (PlushPals, Pearl and Grab It!)

This is what we call a triple-play review. Three unique products sent to me by the same manufacturer, all tied together into one mega-review. My only caveat to you, the buying public, is these products are not meant to be used together. Attempting to do so might result in injury, fire damage or a rift in the space-time continuum. You've been warned.

Viatek is a company that develops and markets new and innovative products. Everything from kids' toys to kitchen miracles, they have something for you. Below are just three of the many products available on their site.

Interactive Plush Pal: These adorable animals come in three types (Manny the Monkey, Patch the Dog, and Freddy the Frog) and they shake, dance and move their mouths in time with any audio connected to them. Reaching out from behind the animal is an audio jack that can plug into any normal headphone port on your computer or phone. When you send music through, the animal dances and sings along, although the mouth will move whether there are lyrics or not. Yet a toddler watching it probably won't care and will become instantly entranced.

The best part is plugging it into your phone when receiving a call. As long as the settings are correct on the phone and the volume is turned up, the animal comes to life and seems to be talking directly to you. My son is a little too young at the moment to get what was going on when I tried it, but I tried again on a two-year-old friend of his and she giggled and smiled like it was made of rainbows and puppies (which is on target if you buy Patch the Dog; personally I tested Manny the Monkey).

Viatek has these for $39.99.

Grab-It! Universal Mount: These handy little items (shown in the photo holding up the smart phone) are great for tech geeks, like myself, who have smartphones and/or tablets that keep moving randomly from place to place on our desk. We hear them vibrate underneath loose sheets of paper, two or three notebooks, possibly from the inside of an empty coffee mug, basically anywhere the phone can fit. The mount gives you a stationary and secure place to put it where it's still useful and accessible.

It works in the same fashion as other mounts on the market, through air suction, but takes is an even simpler approach than many. Instead of just a one-stick suction cup, you push the larger end against any solid and smooth surface, then pump downward a few times. Each pump makes the seal tighter. You can twist the gears to loosen and tighten the angle at which the smaller end points. Then when you are satisfied with the angle, just push your device onto the other end, pump a few times and you're good to go.

Since Viatek sells them in a two pack (for just $14.99) I now have one in my office at work and at home. For long-term placements it will require a few extra pumps each day to replace any lost grip or tension. Completely affordable and much more handy than you originally imagine.

For those thinking this is a great device for your car, it's not, unless your car has a completely flat and non-porous surface. Alas, mine does not. I did mount it to the windshield, but that placement I found too distracting and possibly dangerous. I would stick (pun fully intended) to desks and counters. I find glass desktops work amazingly well.

Pearl Hair Remover: Here's the one product I imagine most people didn't imagine showing up on this website. I've plied you with tons of tech gadgets, movies, books and an utter deluge of Doctor Who, so how does a hair removal system fit in? Well, I fully admit that I pretty much hate shaving and anything that tells me it will make me have to do that less is worth a shot.

It works by sending heat down through the hair follicle thereby 'crystallizing' it. Once you've gone over the desired area, the kit comes with pads to use in order to gently remove any lingering affected hairs. Then there is a smoothing serum to put on afterwards to help ensure comfort and lack of irritation. According to the instructions, the more you use it, the less you will have to because the hair will grow back slower.

OnePlus One Smartphone: 7 Things You Need To Know About the New Nexus 5 ...

OnePlus, the company founded by Oppo executive Pete Lau, released their first smartphone dubbed as OnePlus One running on Cyanogenmod 11S, which is based on the latest Android 4.4 KitKat OS. The company revealed a lot of details about the handset ahead of its official launch, but they have finally unveiled the handset. The handset offers high-end specifications and that too, with an extremely affordable price tag of $299 off-contract for the 16GB version.

' By paying attention to the smallest details, taking a holistic approach to product design, and working with the best partners such as Cyanogen Inc. and Qualcomm Technologies, we have been able to create the greatest day to day user experience in a smartphone without compromise, ' said Pete Lau, CEO of OnePlus.

Read on to find out what the handset has to offer.

1. Display

OnePlus One comes with a beautiful 5.5-inch HD JDI display sporting a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels with a 401 ppi pixel density, and is protected by the Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

2. Design

The handset measures 152.9 x 75.9 x 8.9 mm, and weighs only 162g. If you take a closer look at the measurements, the device is just a few 'mm' bigger in terms of width then the Sony Xperia Z2, which is 5.1-inches. So, it gives us a good look at the form factor the phone has to offer.

Additionally, the device will come with swappable back covers, including including silk, sandstone, denim, bamboo, and kevlar. The most interesting thing about them is they are made of the same material they are named after, except except silk and sandstone.

3. Camera

This is another area where the company focused more. The handset packs a Sony Exmor IMX214 13 megapixel camera with f/2.0 aperture and dual LED flash for improved low-light photography. In addition, the camera will be able to record 4K videos, and if you're a fan of slow-motion videos, you can record 120 fps videos at 720p resolution as well.

As far as the front-facing camera is concerned, the handset rocks a 5MP front-facing camera for better video conferencing and selfies. HTC One M8 also rocks a 5MP front-facing camera, but it's a little difficult to compare it with the OnePlus One since its not available in the market.

4. Horsepower and More

Initially, the company mentioned the handset will come with a Snapdragon 800 chipset on board, but it seems the folks at OnePlus changed their mind, and decided to introduce the latest Snapdragon 801 chipset with a clock speed of 2.5GHz and Adreno 330 GPU. This is the same chipset which is found in the latest Samsung Galaxy S5, so it should give decent performance to its users.

Other features include 3 GB LP-DDR3 RAM, 16/64GB storage options with a microSD card slot, Quick Charge 2.0 for faster changing, a 3,100 mAh battery and runs Cyanogenmod 11S based on the latest Android 4.4 KitKat. The interface looks quite good, and comes with a bunch of privacy-related goodies, such as SMS encryption and Privacy Guard to keep you save from malicious apps. The OS is also said to be extremely customizable. On the connectivity side, it comes with dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, LTE connectivity and GLONASS.

5. Release Date

OnePlus One will launch in 15 global markets, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and the United States later this year.

6. Pricing and Capacity

The 16GB version $299/€269, and will be available in Silk White color, while the 64GB Sandstone Black version costs $349/€299, There's no exact availability date available, but its expected to hit retail shelves in the above mentioned countries later this quarter.

The first 100 OnePlus One units, however, will be offered as part of a program the company calls 'Smash' on April 25th. Customers can apply to smash their current smartphone for OnePlus One, and get the handset for as low as $1.

7. Is it a Nexus Killer

Well, the handset brings top-of-the-line specifications at a very affordable price. Many may call it a Nexus killer - it also offers high-end specifications at an affordable price tag. But, I'll just wait before giving it that title. It's hard to judge a handset without using it, so we'll just wait for the handset to hit retail before giving out our recommendation. What do you think about the Oneplus One?

5.5

Apple is rumored to be working on two new iPhones with a larger screen size, possibly 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch, according to a number of rumors. The alleged 4.7-inch iPhone 6 is expected to see the light of the day later this fall, could be September as its the usual iPhone upgrade cycle for the Cupertino company.

As far as the phablet sized iPhone 6 is concerned, a new report from Chinese shores suggest that it has been delayed and will launch in 2015 as the company is having battery related issues. It has become a challenge for the company to find a battery that can fit inside the thin chassis of the device.

The report uses the term iPhone Air for the new device, but it's not confirmed and it could be iPhone 6. Apple has released Macbook and the latest iPad with the 'Air' tag, so it's possible that Apple may use iPhone Air to be the name of the next-generation iPhone 6. Additionally, reports suggest that iPhone Air moniker is used internally by Apple's suppliers, but its not a word set in stone, so there's an equal probability for the device to launch with iPhone 6 name.

Normally, the batteries have a thickness of roughly 2.8 / 2.9 mm, but Apple's trying to find a battery with a thickness of 2mm or less to fit inside the thin iPhone Air casing.

The purported iPhone 6 is rumored to come with an A8 processor, with a larger ultra retina display and iOS 8 as its operating system out of the box. There's no official confirmation from Apple, and there won't be any until the company officially unveils the handset.

We'll update you as soon as more information pops up about the alleged handset.

8 Reasons The Lytro Illum Will Snap You With Excitement

Lytro has been on the cutting edge of photography with its technology that records an entire light-field... meaning you can refocus a photo with a touch and even shift its perspective. But that technology hits new heights with Lytro's next camera, the Illum.

1. It's Got A Camera Body

First of all, the box that was the original Lytro has been replaced with a body that looks more like a pro camera. It communicates just how much Lytro means business with this camera. There's a touchscreen, a shutter button, and even a lens that professional photographers will recognize as something they'd want to use.

2. You Finally Get Removable Media

One of the original complaints about the first Lytro was the lack of removable media; you had to connect the camera to a computer to get your photos. The Illum, however, stores your shots on SD memory cards.

3. Connectivity Comes Standard

Instead of WiFi and GPS being expensive add-ons, here they come standard. It's true that cameras are moving increasingly towards this, but it's nice to see the Illum bucking the trend and making them standard issue.

4. It's Got Substantially More Processing Power

The original Lytro had a fairly conventional and basic chip when it debuted a few years ago, essentially just enough to process the images. The Illum goes upscale with a Qualcomm Snapdragon, the same chipset used in the Samsung Galaxy S5, as a matter of fact. So this isn't going to lack for the ability to process your photos.

5. The Screen Brings A Substantial Upgrade

If you've used the Lytro, you know that the screen is more a matter of convenience than anything else. It tells you that you've gotten the shot and you can kind of poke at it to shift the focus, but really it's mostly there out of necessity. The Illum's touchscreen is big, bright, and includes a live preview mode that outlines major elements of your shot.

6. The Lens Is Much Better

Interchangeable lenses are still a bit off for Lytro, but the lens the Illum comes with, an 30mm-250mm equivalent with 8x optical zoom, is still pretty nice. Granted, it's not the focus of the technology, but it's still useful.

7. It Interacts With Apps And Online Systems

Of course, there's no point in taking these photos if people can't see them, so Lytro is upgrading its apps and Internet display systems, letting you mess with the focus and the perspective. If you haven't tried out the Lytro app for iOS, give it a shot; it's just fun to mess around with other's photos.

8. It Means Light-Field Photography Is Officially Serious

Until now, the Lytro has been a fun little toy that you use every few months, or at a big event, and then put back with your other photography gear. This puts the Lytro in the big leagues and proclaims it's worth your neck real estate. We'll be curious to see if photographers agree. Either way, the Illum will be out later this year for $1600... but you can save a spot and $100 by preordering it with a $250 deposit.

Gadget Review: Triple Play from Viatek (PlushPals, Pearl and Grab It!)

This is what we call a triple-play review. Three unique products sent to me by the same manufacturer, all tied together into one mega-review. My only caveat to you, the buying public, is these products are not meant to be used together. Attempting to do so might result in injury, fire damage or a rift in the space-time continuum. You've been warned.

Viatek is a company that develops and markets new and innovative products. Everything from kids' toys to kitchen miracles, they have something for you. Below are just three of the many products available on their site.

Interactive Plush Pal: These adorable animals come in three types (Manny the Monkey, Patch the Dog, and Freddy the Frog) and they shake, dance and move their mouths in time with any audio connected to them. Reaching out from behind the animal is an audio jack that can plug into any normal headphone port on your computer or phone. When you send music through, the animal dances and sings along, although the mouth will move whether there are lyrics or not. Yet a toddler watching it probably won't care and will become instantly entranced.

The best part is plugging it into your phone when receiving a call. As long as the settings are correct on the phone and the volume is turned up, the animal comes to life and seems to be talking directly to you. My son is a little too young at the moment to get what was going on when I tried it, but I tried again on a two-year-old friend of his and she giggled and smiled like it was made of rainbows and puppies (which is on target if you buy Patch the Dog; personally I tested Manny the Monkey).

Viatek has these for $39.99.

Grab-It! Universal Mount: These handy little items (shown in the photo holding up the smart phone) are great for tech geeks, like myself, who have smartphones and/or tablets that keep moving randomly from place to place on our desk. We hear them vibrate underneath loose sheets of paper, two or three notebooks, possibly from the inside of an empty coffee mug, basically anywhere the phone can fit. The mount gives you a stationary and secure place to put it where it's still useful and accessible.

It works in the same fashion as other mounts on the market, through air suction, but takes is an even simpler approach than many. Instead of just a one-stick suction cup, you push the larger end against any solid and smooth surface, then pump downward a few times. Each pump makes the seal tighter. You can twist the gears to loosen and tighten the angle at which the smaller end points. Then when you are satisfied with the angle, just push your device onto the other end, pump a few times and you're good to go.

Since Viatek sells them in a two pack (for just $14.99) I now have one in my office at work and at home. For long-term placements it will require a few extra pumps each day to replace any lost grip or tension. Completely affordable and much more handy than you originally imagine.

For those thinking this is a great device for your car, it's not, unless your car has a completely flat and non-porous surface. Alas, mine does not. I did mount it to the windshield, but that placement I found too distracting and possibly dangerous. I would stick (pun fully intended) to desks and counters. I find glass desktops work amazingly well.

Pearl Hair Remover: Here's the one product I imagine most people didn't imagine showing up on this website. I've plied you with tons of tech gadgets, movies, books and an utter deluge of Doctor Who, so how does a hair removal system fit in? Well, I fully admit that I pretty much hate shaving and anything that tells me it will make me have to do that less is worth a shot.

It works by sending heat down through the hair follicle thereby 'crystallizing' it. Once you've gone over the desired area, the kit comes with pads to use in order to gently remove any lingering affected hairs. Then there is a smoothing serum to put on afterwards to help ensure comfort and lack of irritation. According to the instructions, the more you use it, the less you will have to because the hair will grow back slower.

5 Reasons For The Netflix Price Hike (list)

We all knew it couldn't last; $8 for an all-you-can-stream buffet just was too good for this sinful world. And yes, Netflix will be raising prices by $1 to $2 relatively soon. But why?

1. It Was This Or Less Content.

Netflix has to pay for the content it streams, just like any other service. Hulu makes it up with ads, Amazon makes it up with getting you to buy TV shows through them, and Netflix... well, Netflix doesn't do anything besides charge you money, actually. And as content prices go up, Netflix either has to raise prices a bit to pay for it... or offer less service.

2. Their Great Original Shows Aren't Cheap.

House of Cards, Orange Is The New Black, and other Netflix exclusives aren't exactly cheap. House of Cards alone cost $100 million just for the first season, and those bills are largely paid by Netflix. So if you want more of those shows, well, it is going to cost you a little more money.

3. It'll Let Them Create Price Tiers.

One rather telling bit from the announcement was the fact that Reed Hastings, CEO, noted that they wanted to ease customers into paying a bit more for the service. And, more importantly, the price range allows Netflix to create price tiers. Some of us stream video constantly, as the dreaded cord-cutters cable has been pretending no longer exist, and yet still fear anyway. And we'll need a 'deluxe' plan. Others, however, might only use it when they're stuck at their parent's house over a long weekend, or to amuse their kids, so they might want a more limited, cheaper streaming plan.

4. It Gives Netflix The Flexibility To Not Do This All At Once.

If you're already a loyal Netflix subscriber, you won't be paying the new prices quite yet. Netflix has noted that current users will get a generous time period where they'll still be paying the old price, and can decide whether or not they want to continue their service at the new price. Which realistically is $12 to $24 extra a year, and considering all the content the service has, is kind of a steal in of itself.

5. It's Still Going To Be Vastly Cheaper Than Cable.

Finally, there's this simple reality: Even if Netflix doubled its prices, it'd still be cheaper, and better, than cable. Cable bills, over the last decade, have doubled to $78 on average, and they're just going to keep going up. In fact, the cable industry sees that continuing: By 2020, they fully expect you to be paying an average of $200 a month for cable.

Yeah, a lot of people are going to whine about the Netflix price increase, and hey, that's valid. Nobody enjoys paying more, even a little bit more, for a service they're enjoying. But considering what Netflix offers, and how it means instead of watching canned reruns, you can pick the shows you want to watch yourself, Netflix at twice the price is still going to be a steal. Besides, what else are you going to do at your parents'?

The Apps You Need Now (iOS Edition)

Welcome to - 's new weekly app review column. We're starting out with iOS apps only, but in the future we will extend to other OS ecosystems. If you have an app to recommend, please do so in the comments or via our social media channels.

1. Mynd Free, iOS 6 or above

Calendar apps have come and gone, and nothing has yet replaced the tried and true calendars from Google, Apple and Microsoft. Enter Mynd, an 'intelligent mobile calendar' from Alminder Inc. This, loyal readers, is the game changer.

This native app syncs to any existing calendars you have (so you can still manage them from your desktop email client), but transforms the boring box format into an intuitive infographic and mutl-tab display that allows for easy information integration. Just from the launch screen, you can tell what your next schedule item is, how long until it occurs, who is scheduled to attend (plus their LinkedIn profile data), and even a recommended departure time based on traffic conditions.

By combining functions that otherwise require dedicated separate apps, Mynd makes managing a hectic schedule more relaxing than ever.

2. FTL: Faster Than Light $9.99, iOS 6.0 or newer, iPad 2 or later

Though more and more people are playing games on their iOS devices, most of those games are pretty basic and, for self-identifying gamers, extremely boring. If you've been looking for a real-deal game to sink your thumbs into, buckle up for Faster Than Light.

A beloved PC game for years, FTL is finally available on second generation or later iPads. The premise is simple: you're the captain of an intergalactic space ship, voyaging through an unknown (and awesomely randomized) universe. From there, things get more interesting, as you control every aspect of your ship and crew, navigating both enemy and friendly encounters and making snap decisions that can spell doom or glory.

This is a strategy game, first and foremost, but unlike some others it never gets old due to the randomized encounter engine at the core of the game. The UI/UX are peerless, and the art references both 8-bit arcade and anime.

Final verdict: BUY THIS GAME!

3. Sleep Cycle Alarm Clock $.99, iOS 5.0 or later

In my humble opinion, the worst part of the day is setting an alarm for the next morning. But it doesn't have to be that way anymore, thanks to Sleep Cycle, an intelligent alarm clock from Northcube AB.

When I first heard about 'intelligent' alarm clocks, all I heard was 'alarm clock.' But there really is a difference. Sleep Cycle measures your, well, sleep cycles, using the iPhone's built in accelerometer (see, it isn't in there for nothing!) and wakes you up at just the right moment, as you enter your lightest sleep cycle. This way, you aren't snapping out of a deep sleep, and rather gradually slipping into wakefulness, which leads to a far more refreshed and ready feeling.

The app is highly customizable and spits out beautiful graphs and analytics for your monitoring pleasure. For those who have trouble sleeping, it can help identify the cause through its 'Sleep Notes' feature. For those who have trouble falling asleep, it offers a range of lulling sounds and programs. And for all of you who just hate waking up, it will make your day that much better.

4. Data Count Free

In an era of data caps, we could all use a tool to help us avoid the additional charges that accompany all those streaming overages. Data Count, from Creo, is just the ticket.

Nothing complex here, just a simple tool that monitors your cellular (LTE/4G/3G) and wi-fi data and notifies you when you're approaching your limit. It's optimized for iOS 7 and perfectly matched to the Apple aesthetic. Clean, beautiful, and easy.

5. Monument Valley $3.99, iOS 6.0 or later

Sometimes, apps transcend ones and zeros. They usher in a new way of life, perhaps, or offer a major social improvement. And, in rare cases, they become true art.

Monument Valley, a stunning new game from ustwo, is Art with a capital A.

Users guide a ghostly princess figure through mind-bending puzzle worlds using finger swipes, and none of the puzzles are particularly difficult. Turn back now if you're looking for days and days of challenging gameplay.

Few mobile games have reached the level visual appeal that Monument Valley brings, with its otherworldly, MC Escher structures awash in vibrant colors that strangely evoke intense emotional responses. Each move generates soothing soundscapes that draw the player deeper into the game's world. What is the princess looking for? What is this place? The experience verges on meditation at times, allowing the mind to wander while the fingers keep slipping and sliding through temples, castles and illusory galactic monuments.

6. Pinnacle Studio for iPhone $9.99, iOS 7

Here's one for the pros. Or anyone who takes a lot of photos. Which is just about everyone with an iPhone.

Corel Inc.'s Pinnacle Studio is the perfect solution for people who need quick, easy video, audio and photo editing capabilities on the go. Its suite includes montage templates, transitions, title templates, slow/fast motion, clip splitting, and much more. And with easy import, export and sharing controls, on-the-go creative work can be finalized on the big machine at home. Oh, and the video outputs at full HD (1080p)

Nick and Tesla's Secret Agent Gadget Battle

The summer holidays are only two weeks along but 11-year-old Nick Holt already misses his parents. In Nick and Tesla's Secret Agent Gadget Battle by Bob Pflugfelder and Steve Hockensmith [Quirk Books, 2014; Amazon UK; Amazon US/ kindle US], we learn that Nick is convinced that someone is spying on his twin sister, Tesla, and him. His paranoia grows after their mother leaves them a voicemail warning of danger but before he hears who they are not supposed to trust, the message is mysteriously cut off in midsentence. This is the first communication the twins have received from either of their parents since they arrived at their Uncle Newt's house in California, so they listen to it over and over again, anxiety growing, until it is somehow erased.

Shortly after the disappearing voicemail incident (completely unrelated to the News of the World phone hacking scandal and trial), an offbeat cast of characters show up, uninvited, to restore Uncle Newt's cluttered house to some semblance of habitability. Strangely, they all show up on the same day. (That the twins' eccentric and seemingly scatter-brained Uncle Newt was completely unaware that these people were coming is not viewed suspiciously.) These characters include a 'scientist intern' who clearly is not Australian as he claims, an exterminator who pokes through the entire house for bugs, and two mop-wielding harridans. At this point, Nick's paranoia has become contagious since most readers would be certain any one or all of these people is a spy.

But never underestimate the creativity of two imaginative 11-year-olds when confronted by the inexplicable. With the help of their new friends, neighbourhood kids Silas and DeMarco, Nick and Tesla make their own spy toolkit (and teach you how to do so too); they create fingerprint dust and collect and save fingerprints, build invader alarms and hide spy camera traps, design codex wheels for writing coded messages to each other and make balloon drop booby-traps.

Along the way, Nick and Tesla search for Tesla's missing necklace -- why does Tesla's necklace always go missing in these books? They also come face-to-face with an irate neighbor (whom Nick identifies as a spy), black banana goo, a broken garden-gnome, a mud-splattered bike and of course, jumping off a roof.

Despite taking place during just one-and-a-half days, the pacing of the story-telling is consistent with the previous two books. Overall, this mystery focuses upon spy-spotting and sussing out the purpose for why anyone would spy on Uncle Newt and the children. Although we do learn the identity of the spies by the end of the book, more interesting is what we learn about Uncle Newt -- and no, I am not going to spoil the surprise by telling you what that may be!

We finally learn that Nick and Tesla's parents are researchers -- but they don't study soybeans -- and they are involved in some sort of top secret science project. Which explains the spies. Well, sort of. But we learn nothing about their whereabouts or fate, so the reader is left to wonder what happened to Nick and Tesla's parents? After three books' worth of wondering about this and other questions, we really are not much closer to knowing anything more than we were after reading the first page in the first book.

This tertiary addition to the ongoing series about Nick and Tesla's truly remarkable summer vacation will be enjoyed by children and their parents everywhere. I can hardly wait for the next book in this series.

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Read my reviews of book 1 ( Nick and Tesla's High-Voltage Danger Lab) and book 2 ( Nick and Tesla's Robot Army Rampage ) in this series.

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' Science Bob' Pflugfelder is a science teacher for the stars -- child actors, to be precise. He also has appeared on television programs and some of his experiments have been featured in several magazines including People, Popular Science, Disney's Family Fun, and WIRED magazine. Bob teaches science outside of Boston and develops experiments and videos to share with his website visitors. He can be found on twitter: @ ScienceBob.

Steve Hockensmith is a writer who has written a number of children's mystery books and 'romzomcoms' (romantic comedies with zombies). He also works as a journalist who writes about pop culture and the film industry for a number of publications including The Hollywood Reporter, The Chicago Tribune and Newsday. Steve currently resides in the San Francisco Bay area with his family. He can be found on twitter: @ MrHockensmith

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When she's not reading books, GrrlScientist can be found here: Maniraptora. She's very active on twitter @ GrrlScientist and sometimes lurks on social media: facebook, G+, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Here's Stunning Drone Footage Of New York City (Video)

Flying a drone in a urban area is dumb for a multitude of reasons. It can put the safety of others at risk, especially if you're an inexperienced pilot. It can crash, be crashed, or even be shot down depending on how grouchy someone is. Or the police might pay you a little visit to discuss why you're flying a robot around. But sometimes, with footage like this, it's worth it.

Drone Away

Essentially Randy Scott Slavin just hooked up his GoPro to his DJI Phantom, took off, and started filming. This isn't the first time Slavin's explored cities with a drone; notably, he gave it a shot in Northhampton, Massachusetts. But it's rare to find drone footage of New York City, especially this well-done, even though there's no shortage of drone pilots in the Big Apple.

Air Film

Of course, there are a few reasons for that, most of which are good ones for not trying this yourself. First of all, you have no idea what you're going to run into up there; it's not uncommon for drones at a certain height to start running into birds and other, ah, 'squishy obstacles.' Secondly, filming with a drone can be of questionable legality depending on where you are and what you film; there's a reason most drone footage on private property is paid for by the company who owns that property. Drone pilots know all too well that the NYPD can hassle anybody they think might be breaking laws.

Drone Again

But, we have to admit, you can't argue with the results. OK, you can argue with the music, but that's true of a lot of viral videos. Either way, it's a beautiful collection of footage that captures a city just going about its business, over the course of a day.

17 of the Best iPhone 5s Cases of 2014…So Far (list)

Looking to protect your iPhone 5s from spills, dust, drops and more? Or are you looking for a cool-colored case to accent your smartphone? Whatever your reasons are, we've compiled some of the best iPhone cases available. There's slim-fitting ones, wallet folios, tough cases and more.

17. Ballistic Jewel

Known for making tough cases, the Ballistic Jewel is its slimmest case yet and sells for only $19.99. You can opt for various colors or the translucent version for a sleek, simple case to protect your phone.

16. Lifeproof Fre

As a waterproof case for the iPhone 5s, the Lifeproof Fre ($79.99) is the idea case for those who want to keep water and grime out of their phone, but still access the phone's fingerprint feature.

15. Moshi SenseCover

The Moshi SenseCover ($45) is a new faux leather flip-style case for your iPhone 5s that has a built-in window, along with touch sensors which allow you answer calls, check what time it is and more.

14. Spigen SGP Slim Armor

The sleek Spigen SGP Slim Armor case provides great protection and won't break that bank at only $17.99.

13. Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book

Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book ($60) case is unique and novel with an bamboo interior frame with slots on its inside for storing credit cards, cash and cards is a great option for those want a more stylish case.

12. Element Rogue Black Ops

The Element Rogue Black Ops is a more affordable option from Element's lineup that has cases that go for $200+, but this one does the job for only $99.95 and features

11. Urban Armor Maverick

The Urban Armor Maverick ($34.95) features an armor shell that has an impact resistant soft core, yet it's light weight thanks to its composite construction. It also has oversized tactile button and an easy-to-access touchscreen and ports.

10. Typo iPhone Keyboard

When radio and TV show host Ryan Seacrest wanted his iPhone to be more like a Blackberry, Typo fulfilled his wish with the iPhone Keyboard ($99) that features a physical keyboard. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and did so well that their first batch was so popular that they had a huge wait list and just barely caught up with them all.

9. Ballistic Every1

This Ballistic case ($50) is super tough, but doesn't add extra bulk. It also features a built-in kickstand and comes in a variety of colors.

8. Rokform Rockshield V.3

The Rokform Rockshield V.3 ($39) is not only a case, but features a built-in mount system and includes a car mount for your vehicle.

7. CM4 Q Card Case

It's a case and a wallet in one! The CM4 Q Card Case is great for those looking for an all-in-one option and it's amiable in a variety of colors for only $39.99.

6. G-Form Xtreme

freak out whenever you drop your phone when you have the G-Form Xtreme ($39.99) protecting it! The case features there layers of protection that combines its 'patented Reactive Protection Technology with a rigid outer polycarbonate shell and an inner shock-absorbing TPE insert.'

5. Gumdrop Drop Tech Series

Here's another cool tough case ($45) that features two layers of protection that conforms to your phone and a built-in screen cover.

4. Incipio Atlas ID

The Incipio Atlas ID ($89) is a waterproof case that comes in a variety of colors and is constructed with five defensive layers to protect agains shock, dirt and dust.

3. Mapi Orion

Made for the stylish, the Mapi Orion ($90) is made from high-quality leather. the flipper-style case allows you to prop up the phone horizontally or vertically and comes in different colors.

2. Mophie Juice Pack Plus

The battery case ($119) provides lots of powers for those who need more juice throughout the day. It has highest capacity battery (2100mAh), more than doubling the battery life of your iPhone.

1. OtterBox Armor Series

If you need a tough case, the OtterBox Armor Series ($99.99) is their toughest yet. Available in three color, it features a slim design and is waterproof up to 6.6 feet for up to 30 minutes.