Technically Speaking - Episode 7

Speed. Choice. Control. Tech expert Andru Edwards knows these three categories can make all the difference in your busy life. In every episode of Technically Speaking, Andru features three hot tech products that can make your life easier on the road, at work or at home. Here are his picks this episode:

Speed: 1Password

What it is: A digital wallet that stores all your passwords, receipts and credit cards in one place.
Available at: iTunes, Google Play

There is nothing worse than wasting time trying to remember all of your passwords. 1Password is a quick solution to make sure you never get locked out of your accounts again. The app allows you to keep your vital information at your fingertips without having to worry about security, because only you can unlock it on your mobile device with your fingerprint or pin code.

Choice: HP Powerup Backpack

What it is: A backpack that can charge up to three devices
Available at: www.hp.com

This is no ordinary backpack. The HP Powerup Backpack gives you the freedom to go anywhere you want without having to worry about running out of juice. It can provide a full charge for most laptops, tablets and phones. You can also choose which device gets charged first, so the device you need most can be fully-charged when you need it. It’s waterproof, durable and meets airline requirements for carry-ons.

Control: Zagg Pocket Portable Wireless Keyboard

What it is: Bluetooth travel-size keyboard
Available at: www.zagg.com

Never invade your seatmate’s space again with the Zagg Pocket Portable Wireless Keyboard. This Bluetooth device gives you an instant keyboard for your phone or tablet, allowing you to be productive without taking out your laptop. One full charge can power two years of use, so you don’t have to worry about plugging in an extra gadget.

How do Andru’s picks hold up in everyday life? Three National Emerald Club road warriors tested out the Zagg Pocket Portable Wireless Keyboard in their daily lives and gave us their feedback.

“While the keyboard did offer a resting spot for the phone, it did not offer much support and at times the keyboard felt crowded when trying to type on it. That being said, the Zagg offers more advantages than disadvantages. It makes multitasking easier. Its portability and compact size makes the keyboard a great traveling accessory. It could fit easily in a carryon and makes using the iPhone more enjoyable and easier by offering a bigger type board than the phone’s touch screen keyboard.”

- David S., Lenexa, Kan.

 “I like how small and compact the keyboard is. It is easy to use after the initial setup. This product will allow me to not have to take my laptop everywhere. It provides flexibility to stay connected to work and draft longer emails without having to carry around a laptop. This product gives you more control in your travel because it makes it easier to respond to emails on your phone and helps increase productivity.”

- Mitzi M., Seattle, Wash.

“I used it with my Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge smartphone. It was a nice change from using the very small on-screen keyboard...although I *am* getting pretty good at Swype! It is a bit bulky for day-to-day mobile use, but it’s great at a desk or chair-side and makes typing longer emails much easier. It's not hard to take with you, so time spent waiting in an airport or hotel would be made better by having the Zagg with you.”

- Scott M., Alexandria Bay, N.Y.