A Review: Amzer’s CRUSTA

Brandon Ash, who was once connected with the Asylum Public Relations Agency wrote, “On average, Americans look at their phones 150 times a day – this puts the cell phone pretty high up in the hierarchy of importance and Amzer is a company that understands this.”

Reading his email introducing the Amzer Case called CRUSTA, I told him that I would be visiting the Amzer Booth at the International CES in Las Vegas. I also asked if it would be possible for me to have a sample product for review – a CRUSTA case for my new iPhone 6 Plus.

Brandon arranged an immediate delivery and the Amzer CRUSTA became the case of choice for my iPhone 6 Plus since. There are many reasons why.

First, I feel confident that it gives my iPhone full protection because it is a military-grade case that was engineered to protect devices in extreme or everyday situations. Second, because my iPhone is enclosed in tempered glass, hardened plastic, and thermoplastic rubber, the case keeps it safe from drops or scratches.

I understand why Amzer could really say that the CRUSTA case provides the protection as claimed. Its multilayered smartphone case is one of a kind consisting of four functional layers, all constructed of premium material. I understand that CRUSTA’s 4-layer structure is a result of months of research & development with actual users. As published, and as I use it, each layer has a unique protective function, and each function working collectively to provide unparalleled protection.

Layer 1 – is the Edge2Edge Glass Screen Protector. Here you get high-grade scratch and impact protection with an unmatched touch experience.

Layer 2 – is the Embedded Tempered Glass Hard Shell Case.

As described, “The Hard Shell Case is the core protective layer with an integrated Tempered Glass Backing it is first of it's kind and is only 1.1 mm thick. The Shell Case is made of superior quality toughened PolyCarbonate with Anti-Fingerprint coating for tenacious & clean protection. With a built in Mute Switch for iOS devices access to the button is easier than ever.”

  

Layer 3 – is the Textured Finish TPR Ring.

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Per description, “The functional tri-layer impact protection is achieved by an outer layer made of highly impact resistant TPR with Nano Air Cushion Technology. The TPR Ring provides a unique textured look and grip to the case with earmarked soft areas for the easy pressing of buttons. TPR Ring has precise plugs for all the ports which double up as dust protectors.”

Layer 4 – is the 360° Functional Belt Clip Holster.

“CRUSTA™ comes with a re­designed and evolved Holster which allows you to buckle your device in any orientation to your belt when on the go or at work, the holster has 360° swiveling belt clip to suit your comfort. The Holster is offered in a definitive black color and can accommodate your phone with it's facing inward and outward, both.”

Personally, I chose this rugged case to enclose my iPhone 6 Plus not only because of the protection it gives but also because of its fashionable design. It could look cool as a style as there are 42 color combinations to choose from.

Priced at only $45, for the protection that your smartphone gets, and the design and style you would enjoy, it could also be the case of your choice as it is mine.

THE CES CONVENTION EXHIBIT HALLS

The International CES, which was held on January 6-9, 2015, is the world's greatest tradeshow for consumer technology. It spans two million net sq. ft. of exhibit space across Las Vegas. The bulk of the exhibitors were located at the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Sands Expo and Venetian Hotel.

This year, MyCES Planner indicates that I had planned to visit and check out the latest technologies of over 160 booths spread in so many places. Unlike last year when I had to walk from one place to another tiringly, this year I made most of my appointments. It was more relaxing and untiring because I rented a scooter to take me around for the whole week.

As they say, a photo is worth a thousand words. So, I thought that for the readers to appreciate and understand what I am talking about, I am posting the maps that mark the exhibitors that I visited. My exhibitors are marked green.

 LVCC – SOUTH HALL (UPPER LEVEL)

 

LVCC – SOUTH HALL (GROUND LEVEL)

LVCC – CENTRAL HALL

 LVCC – NORTH HALL

SANDS HOTEL EXPO

VENETIAN HOTEL

I will be discussing some of the new technologies that were launched and demoed during my visits in the coming issues.

LAST GADGET STANDING CES 2015

 As in previous years I am again joining the audience that will determine the Final WINNER of the CES 2015 Last Gadget Standing.

Blogger Kaare Christian describes the list of candidates for the event. Posted at lastgadgetstanding.com website, I am reposting five (5) of the Finalists whose gadgets will be demonstrated at the show on January 8, 2015

MECCANOID

MeccaNoid is a new robotics building system from Meccano. At $399, MeccaNoid is the first of its kind: a four-foot tall humanoid that comes with built-in voice recognition, conversations, and much more. Most importantly, users can create their own custom robot movements by physically moving the robot while in record mode. These movements and audio are stored in memory and can be recalled at any time with simple voice commands.

More than just an amazing robot, MeccaNoid is an expandable, reconfigurable robotics platform. Build your own exploration rover. Build an animatronic dinosaur. Build whatever you can imagine with this simple and powerful invention platform!

Also, using the MeccaNoid app, you can create robot movements by manipulating a 3-D “ragdoll” model or by using motion capture – the robot syncs live with the app! The app also has a versatile drag-and-drop programming environment which educators and students alike can use to build behavioral programs for their robotic creations.

LENOVO YOGA Tablet 2

The Lenovo YOGA Tablet 2 with Windows 8”, a tablet that adapts to you for work and play, is now available with THE new unique Lenovo AnyPen technology.

AnyPen technology allows any ballpoint pen or pencil to be used as a stylus with no additional purchase required. As the world’s first Windows tablet enabling the use of any ball-point pen or pencil, as a stylus; AnyPen has a unique, hardware-embedded Touch Panel IC allows “any pen” with a graphite or metal point to be used as a stylus without damaging the screen.

Great for work and play, the familiar Windows 8.1 touchscreen on the Yoga Tablet 2 with Windows (8”) gives users the flexibility to get productive with their free 1-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal or enjoy watching movies on the crystal clear Full HD (1920 x 1200) IPS display with big audio from twin front, large-chamber speakers with Dolby® Audio and Wolfson® Master Hi-Fi™.

Lenovo’s unique Any Pen technology lets people simply pick up their favorite pen and start drawing or taking notes directly on their tablet – naturally, just as they would on paper. Enabling precise hand-writing and sketching without damaging the screen, this incredible new capability eliminates the inconvenience and cost of purchasing a separate stylus.

Traditional touchscreens require a capacitive stylus with a diameter of over 5mm, sacrificing pointing accuracy and the real feel of writing. Any Pen Technology reduces the required point diameter to around 1mm, allowing any common pen to be used as a stylus – vastly improving the writing experience of that found with a rubber-headed stylus.

EKOCYCLE Cube

EKOCYCLE Cube 3D Printer – At its surface, The EKOCYCLE Cube 3D printer is a plug and play consumer 3D printer for everyday use that performs in beautiful 70-micron high resolution.  

But, The EKOCYCLE Cube moves the frontier of 3D printing forward by combining a concern for environmental impact with easy digital creation. The EKOCYCLE Cube uses a groundbreaking new filament made in part from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. It remixes our relationship with recycling, giving everyone who uses it, from students to home-crafters to artists to inventors, a direct and immediate link to how they have repurposed something old for something new.

The EKOCYCLE is not just another tool for making, it is a revolutionary tool for RE-making, and encourages and helps us to change the way we think about recycling. 

V.ALRT

The V.ALRT Personal Alert Device is a small wearable device about the size of a poker chip that works with a smartphone to make urgent calls and send out texts and location at the press of a button summoning help when needed – even if one’s phone is out of reach. Uses cases include seniors who need medical attention, students who encounter dangerous situations on campus, or athletes who get hurt.

Using Bluetooth technology, the V.ALRT transmits its location along with a personalized text message to up to three pre-selected contacts. The V.ALRT has a fall detection feature that will send an alert if it detects a sudden fall that may have left the user incapable of pressing the alert button. Waterproof, the V.ALRT works in the shower and while exercising. No need to recharge as it provides up to a year of use before needing to replace the battery.

PETZILA

PetziConnect is an ingenious device that connects to your home’s Wi-Fi allowing you to (‘see’) video, (‘speak’) audio, (‘snap’) take pictures & videos and (“treat”) dispense treats, your pet remotely from any Internet enabled device.

A team of engineers, animal trainers and behaviorists designed every aspect of PetziConnect to ensure it delivers an experience that is optimized for both pet and owner. From the angle of the camera, clarity of the audio and even the landing areas of the “treat drop-zone”, every detail creates a moment of joyful play that brightens the day for pets and their parents.

PetziConnect features a smooth, clean design, EZ-PZ WiFi set up, an HD camera, high-quality audio and the ability to dispense the widest variety of treats for even the choosiest of pets. It is controlled by a iOS or Android app which also allows images to be easily shared socially.

Mobile Apps Showdown at 2015 CES

We now live in the Planet of the Apps. As of the latest count, there are now about 50 Billions Apps and counting that have been downloaded. At the International CES, the Mobile Apps Showdown is held to choose the best of the latest.  The Judges get to select the 10 Finalists who will demonstrate their Apps in a live stage at the show. The audience, which will include me, will choose the WINNER.

This year’s 10 Finalists as published in the Mobile Apps Showdown website are: (http://mobileappsshowdown.com/#sthash.zt7EpJPG.dpbs)

Breathometer

The Breathometer™ app connects seamlessly to the revolutionary Breeze, the world’s only wearable, portable breathalyzer that’s helping users make informed social drinking decisions. Weighing under an ounce, the stunning industrial design of the Breeze encourages frequent and subtle usage. User’s simply blow into the Breeze’s contoured mouthpiece which sends instant blood alcohol content (BAC) level data to the app via Bluetooth LE. More than just a BAC number is presented- when alcohol is detected, Breathometer tells you when you will be “Back to Zero” – or Sober! User safety is enhanced with location-based links to services such as Uber, cab companies, local hotel and restaurants, so they can get a ride, reach a friend, or stay nearby. Users can also access their BAC level history, giving them insight into how alcohol affects them over time.

Lenovo SHAREit

SHAREit is a fast way to share photos, videos, music, contacts, apps and more from one device to another. SHAREit eliminates the need for cables as a transmission tool with zero network traffic, taking advantage of Wi-Fi hotspots to quickly transfer data 40 times faster than Bluetooth. SHAREit does not require an active internet connection, does not require data or incur network charges and is compatible with all file formats. Transferring between devices can be done person-to-person or in a group setting, combining up to five devices for mass transfers of 300MB+. Simply open the app, discover available devices, select the file and just like that, the content leaps from your device to the other in the blink of an eye.

 

Blur: protect your passwords, payments, and privacy

Blur is the first all-in-one solution for managing your online life protecting your passwords, payments and privacy.  Blur is the clear choice for next generation password creation, encryption and control, purchase protection, and personal information masking to protect you from todays advanced threats to your privacy and security.  Blur revolutionizes how you manage and protect not just your passwords, but your entire identity. Blur’s Masking technology ensures your private personal information isn’t scattered across the internet, tracked and pieced together to harm you.  Harness technology with a tap: manage and protect passwords, mask your email address, credit cards, phone numbers and other personal data. Blur your identity.

uCiC

uCiC (you see I see) allows you to select any area in the world and reach out to users, whether you know them or not, to complete an image or video request for you. Along with the reward of a good deed, they receive in-app Karma Points that they can use to make their own requests. E.g. you need a specific kind of flowers for your grandma’s birthday. You can send a request out to three different flower shops around you and ask if anyone has seen them. Users that receive the request can send you a picture of the flowers and the location where to get them. So whether you want to see the sunset in Paris, or check if the fire you see on the TV news has reached your house, uCiC will show you what you need.

Yuggler

Yuggler is all about kids activities and family fun! Yuggler is an App to share and discover fresh ideas about things to do for kids of all ages right on your iPhone/iPad/iPod. We activate family life! Available anytime, anywhere parents can find and research things to do with kids, based on ideas, information, reviews, tips and photos from parents. Not only parents benefit from Yuggler – It’s really for anyone – uncles, aunts, grandparents and even older brothers and sisters. We are the personal concierge for family fun at home and on the go for anyone seeking for ideas for kids activities. Yuggler is all about equal opportunity. Activity ideas come from parents – not advertisers! Our mission is to revolutionize how parents discover fresh ideas for kids activities and family fun by leveraging mobile and the crowd.

Perfect Bake by Pure Imagination

 

Color-coded bowls, oven thermometer and device stand), download the free a...

Perfect Bake turns anyone into a master pastry chef, guaranteeing delicious results every time. Purchase the app-controlled system (smart digital scale, color-coded bowls, oven thermometer and device stand), download the free app, then connect the scale to your smart device. The app hand-holds you from start to finish: Choose from 260+ recipes (cakes, cookies, pancakes, stuffing and more), modify an existing recipe or add your own. Scale recipes to a desired serving size, pan size or shape, or to the least ingredient on hand; the app does the hard math. Pour ingredients directly into the bowl as the app measures them in real-time onscreen and tells you when to stop; no measuring cups/spoons required. Keep track of ingredients on-hand in your virtual Pantry and find recipes to make using those ingredients. Plus, easy-to-follow color-coded recipe blocks, in-app mixing, baking and cooling timers; a portioning meter; and 60+ original how-to videos.

Spot-On

Spot-On is an “eye-spy” game you play with friends. Test your talent for spotting famous people, places and things. You can play a variety of exciting pictures and discover new celebrities! Find out where your talent truly shines, and compare with friends. Type anything you see. Match words with your partner to win! Think you know pop culture? Let’s see… Look for it on the App Store. January 2015. -

Lyve App

Judges appreciated the fact that images could be collected, stored and displayed -- all across multiple devices. Sort of like the digital photo frame of the future.

Lyve app allows consumers to gather, collect, organize, view, rediscover and protect their entire digital photo and video collection from any device and from any location. The new, free app creates a single library of your photos and videos scattered across your multiple devices (computers, smartphones, tablets). It’s an intelligent service that takes the work out of managing your photos and videos. -

  

Fitnet

Your New Year solution with 200+ free video fitness workouts with unique live webcam scoring and heart rate monitoring. Yoga, Taiji, strength and cardio workouts at varied intensities provide a fun and rewarding experience for beginners and experts alike! 950,000+ minutes of fitness delivered to clients in 2014 from 200 countries and all US states. Fitnet has been featured 10 weeks straight as a ‘top app for Health’ by Apple. Now works on big screens via AppleTV and Google Chromecast. No excuses in 2015! You only need five minutes to get started with your FItnet resolution.

Hi.Q

Hi.Q replaces health forums and quizzes found online or in magazines with an addictive app and active community that provides users with the confidence and knowledge they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones. Hi.Q is flipping the entire approach to digital and quantified health on its head. Rather than using an app to motivate people to exercise and eat right, Hi.Q celebrates the choices healthy people have already made and connects them with other individuals they can actively learn from. Hi.Q is a daily health assessment that tests overall health consciousness and compares a user’s knowledge to that of their friends, health experts and fitness gurus.