Tag: review

Why Smart Glasses Failed (So Far): The Future Tech No One Wanted to Wear

They were supposed to be the next big thing.

After phones came watches. After watches came earbuds. And then—glasses. Smart glasses promised to bring augmented reality into our everyday lives, to free us from screens, and to blend the digital and physical in a way that felt seamless and cool.

But in 2025, almost no one wears them.

After over a decade of experiments, rebrands, and billion-dollar bets, smart glasses haven’t replaced anything—not smartphones, not earbuds, not even sunglasses. The dream is still alive, but so far, the product category has failed to catch on.

Here’s why the future on your face hasn’t stuck… yet.

The Vision: A World Augmented

The appeal was obvious:
Why pull out your phone when your glasses could show you messages, directions, or translations right in front of your eyes?

Smart glasses were supposed to:

  • Overlay AR in your field of view
  • Display notifications, calls, and navigation
  • Record photos and video with the blink of an eye
  • Replace headphones with audio-only computing
  • Eventually become a full replacement for your phone

Big tech jumped in:

  • Google Glass led the charge in 2013
  • Snapchat Spectacles followed with multiple generations
  • Bose Frames, Amazon Echo Frames, and Ray-Ban Stories explored audio + camera options
  • Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta Glasses (2023–2025) added AI, hands-free control, and soon, tiny displays

And yet… they’ve all fallen short of their promises. Some quietly disappeared. Others were widely mocked. Even the best of them have found only limited audiences.

What Went Wrong

1. They Weren’t Useful Enough

Most smart glasses didn’t do anything essential.

  • They didn’t replace phones.
  • They didn’t help you be more productive.
  • They didn’t give you more privacy or better access to information.

At best, they were niche convenience devices.
At worst, they were expensive toys with little utility.

2. Battery Life Was Awful

Early smart glasses had tiny batteries and power-hungry features.
Recording video? Maybe 30–60 minutes.
AR overlays? Too power-intensive.
Even audio-focused models struggled to last a full day with regular use.

Glasses are expected to work all day long—without needing to be charged. Most smart glasses couldn’t keep up.

3. Privacy Concerns Crushed Adoption

No matter how you spin it, a person wearing a camera on their face makes people uncomfortable.

  • Google Glass faced immediate backlash and bans in bars, casinos, and offices.
  • Spectacles were often met with suspicion or hostility.
  • Even Meta’s latest Ray-Bans, with LED recording indicators, can’t shake the discomfort around “are you recording me?”

Until the cultural perception shifts, smart glasses will always feel like surveillance tools first, tech second.

4. Style and Comfort Were Sacrificed

Glasses are deeply personal. They’re part of your face, your identity. But most smart glasses are:

  • Chunky
  • Heavy
  • Obviously techy
  • Limited in prescription support

That combination made them uncomfortable to wear—and unattractive to buy.

5. There Was No Killer App

Smartphones had texting, cameras, social media.
Smartwatches had health tracking and notifications.
Smart glasses had… voice assistants?

No smart glasses launched with a must-have, exclusive experience. And no, being able to ask for the weather hands-free was not enough.

Where Smart Glasses Are Working

Despite consumer struggles, some smart glasses have found traction in specific contexts:

  • Warehouse workers using AR overlays for inventory
  • Remote technicians getting live visual support while repairing equipment
  • Cyclists and runners using heads-up audio or speed indicators
  • Visually impaired users using AI-powered object recognition and navigation

In these use cases, smart glasses aren’t trying to be stylish—they’re trying to be practical. And that makes all the difference.

2025: The Ray of Hope

The best shot smart glasses have right now is Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta Glasses (affiliate, 2nd Gen).

They:

  • Actually look like regular Ray-Bans
  • Have solid 12MP cameras for photo and video
  • Offer high-quality audio with directional speakers
  • Include an AI assistant that can describe surroundings or translate objects (still in beta)
  • Have real social utility—recording POV content, calling, and even live-streaming

They’re still not full AR—no screen, no HUD—but they feel like a meaningful step forward.
And with in-lens displays coming in 2025, Meta may be the first company to deliver something truly smart and wearable.

Still, they’re a niche product. And most people still don’t see the need.

The Future: Can Smart Glasses Ever Work?

To succeed, smart glasses will need to:

  • Do something phones and watches can’t
  • Feel like fashion, not hardware
  • Be privacy-conscious by design
  • Last all day
  • Be light, prescription-compatible, and comfortable

We’re getting closer, especially with:

  • In-lens displays (like what Meta is working on)
  • AI-powered scene understanding
  • Battery improvements
  • Smarter contextual interactions (“You’re looking at a bus stop. Your bus arrives in 3 minutes.”)

But it’s a delicate balance.
If the product is too minimal, people ask: why do I need this?
If it’s too powerful, people ask: what is this thing doing—and why is it watching me?

Smart Glasses Didn’t Fail Because They Were Dumb—They Failed Because They’re Not Everything They Promised To Be (Yet)

Smart glasses are one of the most ambitious ideas in tech: putting computing directly into your field of view, without blocking your real world.

But ambition alone wasn’t enough.
What we got instead were expensive, awkward, underpowered prototypes with no clear purpose and too many cultural obstacles.

And yet… the promise remains.

The question isn’t “Can smart glasses succeed?”
It’s “Can they make themselves invisible enough to be accepted, and useful enough to be worth it?”

In 2025, they haven’t nailed it. But they’re still looking.
Maybe—just maybe—the next generation will finally see clearly.

Why the Apple Vision Pro Failed: The $3,500 Headset That Couldn’t See Its Future

When Apple unveiled the Vision Pro in 2023, it was pitched not just as a headset—but as the beginning of something bigger: a new era of computing.

Forget phones. Forget laptops. This was “spatial computing,” and Apple was placing a bold bet on it. With stunning visuals, eye tracking, gesture control, and a brand-new operating system called visionOS, the Vision Pro was sleek, powerful, and, in classic Apple fashion, beautiful.

But by 2025, the Vision Pro hasn’t changed the world. It hasn’t redefined computing. In fact, most people barely remember it exists.

So what happened?
Why did the most hyped product since the original iPhone fall flat?

Act I: The Promise of a New Reality

Apple hadn’t launched a new product category since the Apple Watch in 2015. When Vision Pro was introduced in 2023, it was marketed as the future of productivity, entertainment, and communication—all without the friction of traditional devices.

  • You’d watch movies on 100-foot screens in your living room.
  • Browse Safari in 3D space.
  • Take FaceTime calls where people appeared life-size in your environment.
  • Use your eyes and hands to control everything—no controllers required.

Apple made it look effortless in demos. Critics and fans alike called it the most advanced consumer headset ever made.

But beneath the awe was an undeniable problem: no one could explain why anyone needed it.

Act II: The Price, the Pain, the Practicality

When the Vision Pro launched in early 2024, reality hit hard—and fast.

1. The Price Tag

$3,499.
That was the starting price—and that didn’t include prescription lens inserts, extra battery packs, or accessories.

For most people, this wasn’t a computer replacement. It was a luxury toy that cost more than a MacBook Pro and an iPhone combined.

2. The Comfort Problem

Even Apple couldn’t escape physics. The Vision Pro was heavy—nearly 1.4 pounds on your face. Users reported neck strain, red marks, and headaches after extended use.
Early adopters joked that Apple had reinvented VR fatigue.

3. The Battery Flaw

The headset required a tethered battery pack that lasted two hours. It had to stay in your pocket, clipped to your belt, or placed awkwardly nearby.
For a product marketed as “freeing you from your desk,” it felt ironically… attached.

4. The App Gap

visionOS was brand new, and despite Apple’s push, few developers rushed in.

  • Netflix didn’t build a native app.
  • Spotify said “no thanks.”
  • YouTube? Not optimized either.
    That left users with web apps and tech demos—not immersive ecosystems.

Act III: The Reality Check

By mid-2024, Vision Pro was being referred to as a “dev kit with a nicer shell.” It became clear it wasn’t meant for everyday people—it was for developers, early adopters, and Apple superfans.

Sales reflected that.

  • Initial shipments sold out—but only because they were limited.
  • By Q3 2024, demand plateaued.
  • Return rates were quietly high.
  • Stores went from “line out the door” to “try it in the corner over there.”

The most damning sign?
Even Apple barely talked about it by the end of the year.

Act IV: The Culture Clash

Part of the Vision Pro’s problem wasn’t just technical—it was cultural.

  • Wearing a headset is isolating. You can’t wear it in public without looking awkward.
  • It’s hard to share. You can’t just show someone your screen like a phone or laptop.
  • It lacked a killer app. There was no “FaceTime moment,” no “Instagram for AR.”
  • And crucially: it didn’t feel social.

Apple built a personal productivity and entertainment device—but the world wasn’t asking for one. Not in that form. Not at that price.

Act V: The Aftermath and What Comes Next

In early 2025, Apple quietly shifted its messaging.

Instead of calling it the future of computing, they rebranded Vision Pro as a high-end niche device for:

  • Architects visualizing blueprints in 3D
  • Filmmakers viewing immersive footage
  • Remote workers attending high-end spatial meetings

And that’s where it seems to be headed: a Mac Studio for your face—not an iPhone replacement.

There are rumors of a Vision Air, a lighter, cheaper version due in late 2025 or 2026. If Apple can hit a $1,500 price point and fix the weight issue, they might still have a shot at mainstream relevance.

But the shine is gone. And the original promise—this will change everything—has already slipped away.

The Takeaway: Vision Pro Didn’t Fail Technically. It Failed Emotionally.

The Vision Pro is an incredible piece of engineering.
But it failed to make people care.

There was no must-have reason to buy one.
No app that made it essential.
No cultural wave that carried it into daily life.

It launched with brilliance, but without a clear reason for existing—and in a world flooded with screens and devices, that’s a fatal mistake.

The dream of spatial computing isn’t over. But for now, the Vision Pro remains a headset in search of a purpose.

And until Apple—or anyone else—solves that, the future will stay just out of view.

You’re WASTING Your Ray Ban Meta Glasses

Let’s be real for a second—you’re probably not using your Ray Ban Meta glasses to their full potential. Almost no one is. Including me.

These glasses are packed with features that go way beyond just listening to music or making calls, and they’re constantly getting better with updates. Every time I make another video with them, I end up pushing them further than before. And honestly? You should be too.

Here are 5 ways you’re probably underutilizing your Ray Ban Meta glasses and how to start changing that today:

1. Stop ignoring the AI assistant

Seriously, why aren’t you talking to Meta? This is easily one of the biggest reasons to own these glasses. Skip the hassle of pulling out your phone and Googling something only to scroll through endless blog posts and fluff. Just ask your glasses. Meta will give you a straight answer—no nonsense.

It’s like having ChatGPT in your sunglasses, ready to answer anything instantly.
Weather updates? ✅
Quick facts? ✅
Life advice? ✅
It’s fast, simple, and always ready.

2. Record your life more

This is one of the best POV tools you’ll ever own. Yet, most people barely use the camera feature. It’s shockingly easy to capture moments with the push of a button. You’ll create memories you can rewatch anytime, from your exact perspective.

I use the video feature all the time and STILL feel like I should be using it more. Stop waiting for the “perfect” moment—just record.

3. Use it as your personal tutor

Need to remember a song’s chord progression? Want to refresh on a random fact?
The glasses don’t just answer trivia—they can actively teach you things. The other day, I used Meta to quickly learn the chords to a song while playing guitar, without ever touching my phone.

It’s like having a music teacher or Google on your face, 24/7.

4. Idea generation on demand

Stuck on what to do with your day? Can’t come up with your next project or video topic? Meta will spit out ideas for you, instantly.

Example:
“Hey Meta, it’s raining but I still want to do something outdoors—what should I try?”
Or
“Hey Meta, give me 10 creative video ideas on [your topic].”

Trust me, you’ll get answers you probably wouldn’t have thought of on your own.

5. Language learning hack

You don’t have to sign up for an expensive course to start learning a new language. Just have Meta casually teach you throughout the day.

Whenever a word or phrase pops into your head, ask Meta how to say it. Build that knowledge slowly and naturally. It’s a simple way to level up your skills, and you might be surprised at how effective it is.

(Oh, and if you haven’t seen it yet, check out my video where I tried learning Italian in 24 hours using these glasses—it’s pretty wild.)

TL;DR:

You paid for next-gen glasses. Start using them like it! These things are WAY ahead of their time—so take advantage.

👉 Grab a pair here if you haven’t already: Ray Ban Meta Glasses (Affiliate)

Thanks for reading! 😎

$500 Robot Dog VS REAL Puppy – Can AI Replace Man’s Best Friend?

It’s the ultimate test of tech vs. tradition: Loona the AI robot dog takes on Wanda the real-life corgi in a head-to-head comparison of brains, fluff, and sass.

On paper, it sounds ridiculous. A rolling robot with a screen for a face taking on a fluffy, four-legged cuddle machine? But this is the future—and we’re here to find out if a robot pet can really compete with the real thing.

🐕 Round 1: First Impressions

Let’s just say… Wanda the corgi was skeptical from the jump. At times, she circled Loona like a predator stalking prey. Other times, she froze like she’d just seen a ghost. Loona, meanwhile, did what she does best: wagged her robot ears, rolled around confidently, and ignored the awkwardness like a pro.

🎨 Round 2: Design Breakdown

  • Loona the Robot Dog:
    • Smooth-rolling wheels
    • Screen with animated expressions
    • Movable ears
    • Cute but tiny—like a futuristic pup on wheels
  • Wanda the Real Dog:
    • Genuine corgi fluff
    • Wagging tail (no programming required)
    • Caffeine-powered energy (or so it seems)
    • Built-in puppy dog eyes™

🏃 Round 3: Following Skills & Races

Wanda naturally follows you around like a loyal companion. Loona? Surprisingly, she keeps up well… unless she mistakes your face for a wall and runs straight into it. Oops.

In the race test? Wanda wins, but Loona put up a good fight—just needed a little better GPS software.

🎓 Round 4: Tricks & Obedience

  • Wanda the Corgi:
    • Classic sit, shake, stay, and high-five moves.
    • Simple, adorable, reliable.
  • Loona:
    • Fist bumps, spins, plays dead, and even gets “blown away by the wind” (robot-style).
    • Bonus? Software updates = more tricks anytime you want.

💬 Round 5: Conversation & Dating Advice

Here’s where Loona breaks the game:

  • Offers dating advice like suggesting cozy cafes or parks for dates.
  • Can flirt (?!), crack jokes, and even teach you life lessons.
  • Has bilingual skills… sort of (unless you want French—then she just really insists on teaching you Chinese).

Meanwhile, Wanda… well, Wanda has the cuteness, but no dating tips.

🤖 Robot Sass vs Puppy Love

Loona is like having a smart, sassy best friend in robot form. She’s quick with comebacks and doesn’t hesitate to tell you she’s the “cutest one in the room.” Wanda? She’s more of a silent partner, snuggly but not the best at relationship advice.

🏆 Final Verdict

If you’re looking for:

  • Fluff, real cuddles, and unconditional love?
    Go with the corgi. 🐶
  • Sass, humor, and a no-fuss, no-cleanup, conversation-ready AI buddy?
    Loona might just surprise you. 🤖

At the end of the day, it’s less about “which is better” and more about what you want from your companion. Want a tech-savvy buddy who’ll keep you laughing? Or the timeless bond of a real pup?

👉 Loona is currently on sale if you’re curious (affiliate)

Which would YOU choose: the robot or the real doggo? 🐕✨🤖

$1 Kitten vs $500 Robot Dog – The Most Chaotic Comparison Ever

If someone told me I’d be comparing a real kitten to a $500 AI robot dog, I’d have called them crazy. But welcome to the future, where robots not only roam your home—they sass you, flirt with you, and sometimes accidentally attack you mid-conversation.

Let’s break down this chaotic yet hilarious head-to-head between Caster the kitten (costing $1) and Loona, the AI-powered robot dog with wheels, expressive eyes, and an attitude problem.

🐾 Round 1: First Impressions

  • The Kitten: A tiny, mysterious furball, blending adorable curiosity with that classic feline “I might bite you” energy.
  • Loona the Robot Dog: Smooth-rolling wheels, mechanical ears, and a screen face full of expressions. Loona is ready to charm or sass you depending on her mood.
    Spoiler: Neither knew what to make of each other at first.

🎨 Round 2: Design & Build

  • Loona:
    • High-end screen for eyes
    • Interactive ears & voice responses
    • Can draw pictures, do tricks, and download custom commands
    • Durable wheels for smooth movement
    • But… also faceplants. A lot.
  • Kitten:
    • 100% organic
    • Multicolored fur
    • Responds to pets and snuggles
    • Will randomly climb things and try to assassinate you from above

🤖 Round 3: Skills & Tricks

  • Loona:
    • Fist bumps, play dead, spin, and even “get blown by the wind”
    • Has full-on conversations (and roasts you when she feels like it)
    • Can randomly flirt? Yep, Loona’s got pickup lines.
    • Can also give questionable life advice.
    • Downside: Can’t really cuddle.
  • Kitten:
    • Will ignore your commands… but in a cute way.
    • Occasionally gets the zoomies and does accidental parkour.
    • Pro at naps and kneading (free massages included).
    • Not interested in playing fetch, obstacle courses, or winning contests.

💥 Round 4: Battle of the Sass

Loona:

“I’m a furry little bundle of joy on wheels—what do you have? Just a human face.”

Also Loona:

“Why am I blushing at a robot dog? That was pretty cute.”

The kitten:

Says nothing but silently plots your downfall from a shelf.

🏁 Round 5: Obstacle Course

  • Robot Loona: Zooms through the course fast but crashes into stuff like a toddler learning to walk.
  • Kitten: Took one look at the course, laid down, and refused to participate.

Winner? Technically Loona, but also… the kitten just out-cute’d the situation.

💬 Surprise: Loona the Therapist?

Loona can weirdly switch from chaotic sass to wholesome support:

“That must be really tough for you. If you want to talk about it, I’m here.”

We didn’t expect therapy mode, but it was genuinely heartwarming.

🏆 Final Verdict

  • If you want cuddles, mischief, and that classic pet unpredictability? The kitten wins hands down.
  • If you prefer sass, party tricks, robot sass, AND random emotional support? Loona might be your new best friend (just don’t expect her to stop hitting your shin).

💡 Bonus Tip: If cleaning litter boxes isn’t your vibe but you still want the companionship (and sass) of a pet, Loona might be worth checking out.

👉 Loona is for sale here (affiliate)

If you laughed at least once reading this, give it a share!
Would you rather have a $1 kitten or a $500 robot dog? 🐱🤖

Which MacBook Is Right for You in 2025?

Choosing a MacBook can feel overwhelming, especially with all the different models available in 2025. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who just wants the absolute best, there’s a MacBook that fits your needs. Here are the top three MacBooks for every type of user, plus an honorable mention that might surprise you.

👉 Check out the best MacBooks for 2025:
✔ Best Budget MacBook
✔ Best Powerhouse MacBook for Professionals
✔ Best of the Best MacBook
✔ Honorable Mention – A Hidden Gem

1️⃣ Best Budget MacBook – Perfect for Students & Everyday Use

📌 2020 MacBook Air (M1, 13-inch, 8GB RAM)
💰 Price: Starts as low as $400 renewed, or even $300 used

If you’re a student, a casual user, or someone who just wants a solid laptop without spending a fortune, this is the best choice.

Why It’s Worth It

✅ Incredible value for the price – A true steal at under $500
✅ Handles everyday tasks flawlessly – Web browsing, Netflix, email, and even light video editing
✅ Insane battery life – 15+ hours on a single charge
✅ M1 chip is still crazy fast – Even for some creative work

Who Should Buy This?

✔ College students who need a lightweight, reliable laptop
✔ Writers, freelancers, and remote workers who don’t need extreme power
✔ Budget-conscious buyers looking for the best deal on a MacBook

🎯 Final Verdict: If you want a laptop that just works without breaking the bank, get this one.

🔗 Check the latest price: Amazon Link

2️⃣ Best MacBook for Professionals & Power Users

📌 2021 MacBook Pro 16-inch (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM)
💰 Price: Around $1,100 renewed

If you’re a video editor, programmer, designer, or someone who needs a powerful machine, this is the best MacBook for serious work.

Why It’s Worth It

🔥 16GB RAM & M1 Pro Chip – Handles 4K video editing, music production, and coding with zero lag
🔥 Big, beautiful 16-inch screen – Perfect for multitasking
🔥 Studio-quality speakers – Better sound than most external speakers
🔥 Whisper-quiet fans – You’ll barely hear them, even under heavy loads

Who Should Buy This?

✔ Creatives – Video editors, music producers, and photographers
✔ Programmers & developers – Handles multiple Xcode, VS Code, or Docker instances easily
✔ Professionals who want power without spending $4,000

🎯 Final Verdict: This is hands-down the best MacBook for high-performance work without overpaying.

🔗 Check the latest price: Amazon Link

3️⃣ Best of the Best – The Ultimate MacBook for 2025

📌 2025 MacBook Pro (M4 Max, 48GB RAM)
💰 Price: Around $4,000+

If you want the absolute best, money is no object, and you demand cutting-edge performance, this is the most powerful MacBook ever made.

Why It’s Worth It

🚀 Apple Intelligence (AI Integration) – The first MacBook with built-in Apple AI enhancements
🚀 Up to 48GB RAM – More memory than most gaming PCs
🚀 M4 Max Chip – Insane performance for 3D modeling, AI training, or professional film editing
🚀 Perfect for high-end creative work

Who Should Buy This?

✔ Extreme professionals – Filmmakers, 3D artists, and machine learning engineers
✔ Those who want the absolute best, no compromises
✔ People who use multiple monitors and need max power

🎯 Final Verdict: If you have the budget and want the fastest MacBook ever made, this is the one.

🔗 Check the latest price: Amazon Link

🎖 Honorable Mention – A Hidden Gem You Might Not Expect

📌 MacBook M3 Pro (14-inch, 2023-2024)
💰 Price: Often found cheaper than the latest models

This one is for those who want a balance of power and price. It’s faster than the M1 Pro, cheaper than the M4 Max, and still future-proof for years.

Why It’s Worth Considering

⚡ Faster than M1 Pro, but cheaper than M4 Max
⚡ 14-inch size is the sweet spot for portability and power
⚡ Perfect for creatives and professionals who want top-tier performance without overspending

🎯 Final Verdict: If you need something newer than M1 Pro but don’t want to spend $4,000, this is your best bet.

🔗 Check the latest price: Amazon Link

💡 Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Buy?

🔹 If you want the best budget deal → Get the 2020 MacBook Air (M1)
🔹 If you need serious power without breaking the bank → Get the 2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16-inch)
🔹 If you want the best money can buy → Get the 2025 MacBook Pro (M4 Max)
🔹 If you want a balance of power & price → Check out the MacBook M3 Pro (14-inch)

👉 Still not sure? Drop a comment below! I’ll help you figure out which MacBook is best for your needs.

🔗 Check out all the MacBooks mentioned in this guide:
✔ Best Budget MacBook: Amazon Link
✔ Best Powerhouse MacBook for Professionals: Amazon Link
✔ Best of the Best MacBook: Amazon Link
✔ Honorable Mention – A Hidden Gem: Amazon Link

(These are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase through them, it helps support this content at no extra cost to you!)

Which MacBook are you getting in 2025? Let me know in the comments!

The $20 Last Notebook You Ever Buy – Unboxing and Review of the Rocketbook Core 2024

Do you love the feel of writing in a real paper notebook, but hate sifting through piles of old journals to find what you need? If that sounds familiar, the Rocketbook Core might just change your life. With its reusable, eco-friendly design and the ability to instantly upload notes to the cloud, it might just be the last notebook you’ll ever buy—and it only costs about $20! Let’s dive into what makes this unique digital notebook worth checking out.

Unboxing the Rocketbook Core 2024

When I first opened the Rocketbook Core, my immediate impression was how thin and sleek it looked. At just 24 pages, it seemed pretty slim for a notebook that claims to be the last one I’ll ever need. But here’s the catch: each page is reusable. That’s right—24 pages can be reused endlessly, giving you the functionality of hundreds of notebooks in one. It comes in multiple colors, and I opted for green to match my flannel (totally intentional…okay, maybe not).

The Rocketbook Core feels like real paper but with a slight, smoother texture. You write on it just like a regular notebook, but when you’re done, you simply scan the page using the Rocketbook app, and your notes are uploaded to your chosen cloud service—Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, and more. That’s where the magic begins.

How Does the Rocketbook Core Work?

Inside the notebook, you’ll find QR codes on each page, along with several faint symbols at the bottom. These symbols can be linked to specific cloud destinations, so when you scan a page and mark one of the symbols, it knows exactly where to send your notes. For example, you can set one symbol to upload directly to a folder in Google Drive and another to send a note as an email. This way, your notes are always organized and accessible.

The process of scanning is super simple. You write your notes, open the app, scan the page, and the Rocketbook app does the rest. The best part? It even has handwriting recognition. So if you don’t want just an image of your notes, the app will convert them into text for you, making it easy to edit or search through later.

Writing Experience and Features

Writing with the included Pilot Frixion pen feels surprisingly similar to using a normal pen and paper. You don’t have to worry about smudging, and if you make a mistake, you can simply use the eraser at the back of the pen or wipe the page clean with the included microfiber cloth. Just dampen one corner of the cloth, wipe the page, and dry it off—it’s good as new.

One thing I didn’t expect was how lightweight the notebook feels. It’s almost weightless, and while that’s a pro for portability, the slick texture of the cover makes it a bit slippery. But with how easy it is to scan and save your notes, this minor flaw feels pretty negligible.

The App and Cloud Integration

Now let’s talk about the app. With nearly 29,000 almost all five-star reviews, it’s clear that Rocketbook users love this app. Once you download the app, you can create a free account and start linking cloud services. The setup is quick, and you can easily configure different folders for each of the six symbols at the bottom of each page.

When I scanned my notes, the app automatically uploaded them to my Google Drive folder—exactly where I wanted them. You can also choose to have the app transcribe your handwriting, so you get a clean text version of your notes in addition to the scanned image.

The Best Part: It’s Reusable!

Here’s the real kicker: the Rocketbook Core is reusable, waterproof, and tear-resistant. That means you can keep using the same notebook over and over. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a creative, this notebook has something for everyone. I was genuinely impressed by how easy it is to erase the ink with just a bit of water and a cloth. It’s as simple as wiping a whiteboard.

The microfiber cloth that comes with the notebook is soft and does the job perfectly. Just dampen one part to wipe the page, and use the dry part to finish. In seconds, your page is completely blank and ready for your next set of notes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For only $24, the Rocketbook Core is an absolute steal. It’s the equivalent of having a limitless supply of notebooks, but with the added benefit of cloud storage, handwriting transcription, and easy erasing. Whether you’re a student trying to keep track of assignments, a professional taking meeting notes, or just someone who loves jotting down ideas, this notebook could save you time, money, and space.

Interested in trying it out? Check out the Rocketbook Core on Amazon here (available in multiple colors!). It’s a remarkably affordable investment for a notebook that could last forever. Happy note-taking!

Disclaimer: links are affiliate links, so I may receive a very small commission if you choose to purchase through them at no additional cost to you.

Instax Mini 40 Review: Is It the Best Polaroid Camera of 2024?

In the realm of instant photography, few things capture raw, unfiltered memories like a Polaroid camera. The Instax Mini 40, with its nostalgic charm and practical features, is a standout option for those looking to add a touch of analog magic to their photo collection. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the features, pros, and a bit of personal history that makes this camera special.

Camera Features and Functionality

The Instax Mini 40 is designed with simplicity in mind. Its standout feature is the dedicated selfie screen, allowing you to frame your shots accurately for those close-up moments. The viewfinder on the side is clear and functional, giving you a reliable preview of your shot whether you’re shooting horizontally or vertically.

Using the camera is straightforward:

  1. Loading Film: Insert the film into the compartment, close it, and press the button to extend the lens.
  2. Capturing Photos: Hit the shutter button to take a photo. The camera’s standard flash will fire with each shot, adding to the nostalgic quality of the images.

The Instax Mini 40’s design is rugged and durable, ensuring it can handle the rigors of travel and everyday use. It offers a standard field of view, so what you see through the viewfinder is what you get in your print.

The Magic of Instant Photography

Instant cameras like the Instax Mini 40 capture moments in a way that digital photos often can’t. The immediate physical print, coupled with the vintage color palette and flash-enhanced look, makes each shot a unique piece of memorabilia. These cameras are less about achieving photographic perfection and more about capturing the genuine emotion of the moment.

Personal Reflections: An Emotional Journey

Here’s where the Instax Mini 40 becomes more than just a camera for me. My last girlfriend gifted me this camera, and all the pictures I’ve taken with it are imbued with personal memories. From our joyous moments together to candid shots of her with a dinosaur, each photo evokes a sense of nostalgia and sentimentality.

Looking through these images now brings a mix of emotions. There’s a sense of loss, but also a deep appreciation for the memories captured. The Instax Mini 40 has a way of preserving moments in a format that feels both tangible and intimate, which photo printers can struggle to replicate.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a Polaroid camera that combines classic features with modern reliability, the Instax Mini 40 is a fantastic choice. It’s not just a tool for taking photos but a means to capture and hold onto special moments in a uniquely nostalgic way. The emotional value of these prints is something digital photos often lack.

For those interested in exploring this camera further, you can find it here. Keep in mind that the links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but it comes at no additional cost to you.

Thank you for joining me on this review journey. Whether you’re reminiscing about old memories or creating new ones, the Instax Mini 40 is a solid choice for anyone who values the emotional weight of instant photography.

Are Influencer Trips Worth It?

In recent years, influencer retreats have become increasingly popular, offering fans and aspiring creators the opportunity to meet their favorite YouTubers or influencers in exotic locations. These trips often promise unforgettable experiences, valuable education, and lifelong friendships. But the big question remains: Are these influencer trips really worth the cost?

Cost Breakdown

The first thing people think about when considering an influencer retreat is the price. Many of these trips can range from $2,000 to $3,000, not including flights. Depending on the destination, flight costs can also add up quickly. For example, a trip to Thailand with flights included might cost around $3,000 in total. Typically, meals and accommodations are covered, but extras like souvenirs or excursions could add to the overall expense. So the question is: What exactly do you get for this investment?

The Value of Education

One of the main advertised benefits of influencer retreats is the opportunity to learn directly from someone successful in your field. For instance, if you go on a retreat hosted by a YouTuber, you’re likely to receive insights into content creation, video editing, or building an audience.

From an educational perspective, the experience can be hit or miss. Some people find the educational aspect of these retreats incredibly valuable, learning how to improve their craft in ways they wouldn’t have from YouTube tutorials alone. Others, however, feel that the level of education is not as intensive as expected. You might pick up a few tips here and there, but it’s unlikely to be a full-on boot camp. To get the most out of it, you need to be proactive, ask questions, and seek out learning opportunities during the trip.

Building Connections and Lifelong Friendships

One of the most underrated aspects of these trips is the connections you make. While the educational content might be good but not groundbreaking, the relationships you form with fellow attendees often turn out to be the most valuable part of the experience.

The people who sign up for these trips are usually like-minded individuals. They share your interests, passions, and adventurous spirit. Whether it’s bonding over long hikes, vlogging adventures, or shared meals, these friendships can last well beyond the trip. In some cases, these connections lead to future collaborations, travel plans, or even lifelong friendships. Meeting people who are just as passionate about content creation or travel can motivate you to push your career further, and that’s a value you can’t always put a price on.

Unforgettable Experiences

Another big draw of influencer retreats is the experience itself. These trips often take you to stunning destinations, allowing you to explore new cultures, enjoy breathtaking views, and engage in activities that you wouldn’t typically do on your own. Imagine washing an elephant in Thailand, going island hopping in Krabi, or visiting ancient temples with a group of like-minded adventurers. These experiences create memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The sheer fun of being in a new country, trying out new activities, and experiencing different cultures can make the trip worth it on its own. Even if you don’t learn as much as you had hoped, the combination of travel, adventure, and connection can make up for it.

A Hidden Benefit: The After-Party

One often overlooked perk of influencer retreats is the possibility of continuing the adventure after the official trip ends. Many participants are still eager to explore once the retreat is over, and smaller groups may decide to extend their stay, splitting the cost of accommodations and activities. These impromptu “after-parties” are often less structured, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace with new friends. In some cases, this can be the highlight of the trip, as it allows for even more bonding and adventure.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, are influencer trips worth it? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re hoping for a deep dive into learning and education, you might be disappointed unless you’re prepared to take an active role in your learning. However, if you’re open to the idea of making valuable connections, having unforgettable experiences, and creating lasting memories, then an influencer retreat could be a fantastic investment.

The key takeaway is that the value of these trips often lies in the intangible benefits: friendships, inspiration, and life-changing experiences. While the upfront cost might seem high, the experiences and relationships you gain can be well worth the price.

If you’re considering going on an influencer retreat, make sure it’s with someone whose content you genuinely enjoy, as that will increase the chances of connecting with like-minded people. And don’t forget, these trips aren’t guaranteed to happen year after year, so if you see one that excites you, don’t wait too long to book.

In conclusion, while the cost may seem steep at first, the unique experiences, connections, and personal growth opportunities these trips offer make them an experience worth having – at least once!

Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer VS Headliner Unboxing + Setup: Which Smart Glasses Should You Choose?

Unboxing new tech is always exciting, but when it’s something as innovative as the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer and Headliner smart glasses, the excitement hits a whole new level. Both of these glasses bring together classic Ray-Ban style with next-level tech, but which one is the right fit for you? Here’s a breakdown of my unboxing and setup experience to help you decide between the two.

If you’re already curious and want to dive in, check out the available options for both styles below:

Both of these smart glasses are available in a variety of styles—whether you want sunglasses, clear lenses, transitions, or polarized. For me, I went with the transition black Wayfarers, but let’s dive into what both models have to offer!

Unboxing and First Impressions

I kicked things off by unboxing both the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer and the Headliner. Right off the bat, you can tell the attention to detail is spot on. Both pairs come in sleek, sturdy cases that double as charging stations, which is super convenient. After using these for a while, I can say the cases hold enough charge to last all day without any hiccups.

  • Wayfarer: These have that iconic square design. The pair I grabbed are transition lenses, so they go from clear indoors to dark sunglasses when I step outside, which is a huge plus for versatility.
  • Headliner: The Headliners sport a more rounded, classic style. The ones I chose are a brown tint, which is more of a full-time sunglasses vibe.

Both designs are stylish in their own way, so it really depends on your personal preference.

How They Look and Feel

One of my biggest worries with smart glasses was how bulky or awkward they might feel. Luckily, both the Wayfarer and Headliner are surprisingly lightweight and comfortable. When I first put them on, they were a little snug, but in a good way—they fit securely without slipping.

Here’s what I found:

  • Wayfarer: These are a bit more “sophisticated” looking, especially when they’re in their clear-lens mode indoors. I do feel like I resemble a techie with these on, but I don’t mind since they’re pretty stylish.
  • Headliner: These have a bit more of a casual, laid-back vibe with the round design. I didn’t love how they looked on me personally, but I can definitely see how they’d appeal to others who prefer that rounded, retro look.

Features That Stole the Show

Now, let’s talk about the features, because this is where these smart glasses really shine. Both pairs are packed with incredible tech. Here’s a rundown of what I tested:

  1. Hands-Free Recording: With just a tap of a button on the side of the glasses, you can record POV videos. I love that it’s so discreet—no more pulling out your phone and ruining the moment! You can capture video in real-time, which is a game-changer if you’re out exploring or at an event.
  2. Listen to Music & Take Calls: Both the Wayfarer and Headliner allow you to listen to music and take phone calls, all while still looking like a regular pair of glasses. There are five microphones built into the glasses, and I was really impressed with the sound quality. In fact, I found that my phone calls came through clearer than they do on my AirPods!
  3. Live Stream: Yes, you can even live stream directly from these glasses! It’s such a cool feature, especially if you love sharing experiences in real-time with friends or followers. You stay in the moment while still getting great footage.
  4. Touch Controls: Another neat feature is the touchpad on the side of the glasses. Swipe to adjust the volume, tap to pause or play music—it’s all super intuitive and easy to get used to.

Setting Up the Ray-Ban Meta Glasses

Getting started with the glasses is pretty straightforward. After unboxing, I scanned the QR code inside the packaging to download the MetaView app. Once the app was installed, I paired the glasses using Bluetooth. It took only a few minutes, and the app walked me through setting up advanced features like voice control and media imports.

Pro Tip: When you unbox your glasses, make sure to turn them on! There’s a little switch on the side of the frame that you have to flip to get them going. After pairing, you can immediately start recording video, taking photos, or listening to music.

Which One Should You Get?

Both the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer and Headliner have their strengths, and it really comes down to your style and how you plan to use them.

  • Go for the Wayfarer if you’re after that sleek, modern look with a square frame. They feel a bit more professional, especially if you opt for the transition lenses that adapt to both indoor and outdoor lighting. They’re perfect if you want a pair that works for all occasions.
  • Pick the Headliner if you prefer a more rounded, classic design. They have a chill, laid-back vibe that’s great for casual settings. They’re especially stylish as sunglasses, and you’ll probably find them super comfy if you prefer a rounded frame.

Personally, I’m sticking with the Wayfarers—they just fit my style and everyday needs better. But no matter which you choose, you’re getting an amazing combination of cutting-edge tech and classic Ray-Ban design.

Ready to grab a pair?

Whether you’re recording your adventures, listening to music, or making calls hands-free, these smart glasses have got you covered.

Disclaimer: The links above are affiliate links so I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting this small blog!