New AI tool lets you replace pictures of your ex with images of red flags and snakes

The viral chatbot could upend the way Wall Street works. But it won't happen overnight. Here's why it'll be a slow burn. Welcome back! Dan DeFrancesco in NYC. On tap, we've got stories on how ChatGPT is being used at one PE giant, the jobs you want, and don't, during a recession, and how to get back at your ex if you're feeling petty.But first, the robots are here. If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.Ex Machine the Movie1. Give them an inch and they'll take a mile.I think it's time to talk about ChatGPT...If you're not familiar with the buzzy chatbot that has become the latest obsession of the internet, you should start with our guide to everything you need to know about ChatGPT.In short, ChatGPT is a really fancy chatbot. And while chatbots have been around for years, ChatGPT uses something called generative artificial intelligence that makes its answers sound a lot smarter than your average chatbot (or maybe not, depending on who you ask). But let's be honest. You don't care about all that. You only care about one thing:Is this thing going to take my job?The short answer is: No... not yet.Insider's Paige Hagy and Bianca Chan asked industry experts how they see a tool like ChatGPT impacting all areas of Wall Street, from investment banking to financial planning to consumer banking. And while it's still early days, the verdict seems to be that ChatGPT can help finance employees do their job more efficiently.It's not that ChatGPT is going to replace people's jobs. It's going to help them focus on the more valuable, important stuff! ... Rigggggght.It's not that I think these people are lying. I've just seen this show before.Every new tech innovation to come to Wall Street has always been pitched as a way to help employees "work smarter not harder," and every time it's eventually led to a company looking for redundant roles as a result of the new tech.So if your boss pitches you on using ChatGPT to help "streamline your workflow" understand that you could be training your replacement. Click here to read more about the types of jobs ChatGPT might upend across Wall Street.In other news:Stephanee Beggs.Courtesy of Stephanee Beggs2. Meanwhile, one investing firm is already getting ahead of the game when it comes to using ChatGPT. Swedish PE giant EQT has already found value in using ChatGPT to help its dealmakers interface with a massive database the firm has spent nearly a decade building. More on how it's using the tech here.3. The king of meme stocks eyes Nordstrom. Billionaire activist investor Ryan Cohen, who played a key role in the meme-stock frenzy of 2021, has targeted the luxury department-store chain. Here's more on the changes Cohen wants to see at Nordstrom.4. Pink Floyd's "Money" takes on a whole new meaning. Wall Street trading firm GTS Securities is looking to make investing in music royalties accessible to the general public, Bloomberg reports. Read more on how it plans to do it here.5. The safest, and riskiest, jobs amid a potential recession. Even though the unemployment rate is the lowest it's been since 1969, people are still on edge about job security. We asked economists the roles that are recession-proof and the ones on the chopping block. Here's the rundown. 6. Is crypto back?! Don't call it a comeback! Crypto-related stocks had a BIG start to the year, with some up over 100%. These are the biggest gainers.7. How to keep your noggin in tip-top shape. Do things seem to keep slipping your mind? Have you forgotten to call your parents recently? (Maybe that one is on purpose.) Either way, these are 6 science-backed ways to keep your memory sharp and fight off dementia.8. She made $2 million selling her study notes from college. Stephanee Beggs made seven figures selling her study materials on TikTok and Etsy, which means she cleared more business than half the bankers on Wall Street. (Too soon?) 9. The slow death of WFH? Offices in the US recently hit an average occupancy rate of 50.4%, its highest rate since the pandemic. More on what that means for remote-or-die workers.10. Show your ex's true colors by turning them into an actual red flag. Now this is an AI tool we can all get behind. Picsart lets users replace photos of their ex with things like red flags or snakes. Learn more here if you're feeling petty. And while we are at it, here are 21 pairs of TV co-stars who had to keep working together after they stopped dating. Curated by Dan DeFrancesco in New York. Feedback or tips? Email ddefrancesco@insider.com, tweet @dandefrancesco, or connect on LinkedIn. Edited by Jeffrey Cane (tweet @jeffrey_cane) in New York and Hallam Bullock (tweet @hallam_bullock) in London.  Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Celebrate your girlfriend with gifts that fit any occasion, ranging from thoughtful and unique to sentimental and romantic. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.Bearaby; CatbirdWhether it's for her birthday, Valentine's Day, or just because, your girlfriend deserves a thoughtful gift that suits her lifestyle. From a cozy shearling throw blanket for the homebody, to luxury colored glassware for the host, to a mini portable speaker for the audiophile, we've come up with 69 gifts for girlfriends of all types.Whether it's a stylish accessory she can wear everyday or practical tech she didn't realize she needed — and whatever your budget or the occasion — these are the best gifts that say to her: You're the best girlfriend.A weighted throw blanket for better restJen Gushue/InsiderBearaby Cotton NapperWeighted blankets can encourage relaxation and improve sleep, and Bearaby's Cotton Napper is stylish enough to be thrown over any couch or bed. With multiple colors and weights for the ideal fit for her and her home, it's one of the best weighted blankets we've tested — and it's machine washable. At $200–300 depending on weight, it's one of the pricier gifts in this guide; for a more budget-friendly option, we recommend the Luna Weighted Blanket, which is typically under $100 and sometimes goes on sale for less than $50.Colored glassware for a luxurious cocktail partyWest ElmEstelle Colored Rocks Glass (Set of 6)Beauty and function meet in these rocks glasses by Estelle Colored Glass, a Black-owned home decor brand specializing in luxury hand-blown glassware. Blending classic silhouettes with eye-catching contemporary colors, this 6-piece set is perfect for the host who wants her drinkware to wow as much as the drinks. If bubbly is more her style, we also love Estelle Colored Glass's Champagne Coupe Stemware.The plushest reversible throw blanketAmazonUGG Bliss Sherpa ThrowWith a cuddly, wool-like texture on one side and a smoother microfleece on the other, UGG's Bliss Sherpa Throw is one of our favorite throw blankets. It's perfect for curling up in front of the TV, and large enough to share when date night is a movie marathon at home.A textured foam-roller to massage out any knotTriggerPointTriggerPoint GRID Foam RollerWhether your girlfriend is sore from tearing up the gym or simply being on her feet all the time, a foam roller is a great gift for aiding her muscle recovery. The TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller is one of the more practical rollers we've tested, due to its lightweight and water-resistant material, packable dimensions, and approachable price point, but we've also recommended more intense options — vibration included! — if you're willing to go above $100.A versatile styling tool for any hair typeSharkShark FlexStyle Air Drying & Styling SystemThe Dyson Airwrap is notoriously hard to obtain, whether because of stock issues or its $600 price tag, so our Style & Beauty team recommends the Shark FlexStyle as the closest multi-styling tool on the market. At half the price of the Airwrap, it's still more of a splurge, but well worth it for a girlfriend who's interested in upping her at-home hairstyling game.An instant camera she can also use with BluetoothAmazonPolaroid Now+ White (9062) Bluetooth Connected Instant Film CameraFor the girlfriend who loves snapping pics, give her the option of either using the camera or connecting her phone and directly printing from her camera roll. The Polaroid Now+ also comes with five creative lens filters to unlock even more artistic possibilities.A belt bag suited for festivals, mountains, and morePatagoniaPatagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip PackWhether she's looking for a bag that can survive some rough wear or aiming for a trendy dressed-down look, Patagonia's hip pack can rise to the occasion. It's one of our favorite belt bags, made from recycled fabric and available in a variety of colors, and with an adjustable strap to suit diverse body types and ways to wear it.A Bluetooth speaker small enough to fit in her bagJBLJBL Go 3 Portable SpeakerIf she doesn't like sacrificing space or sound quality, she'll love the JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker. Available in a variety of colors, the Bluetooth speaker is waterproof, measures 3.4 inches on its longest side, and has a loop that makes it easy to attach to a bag or belt. It's typically around $50, but keep an eye peeled during shopping holidays, when we've seen deals as high as 50% off.An affordable luxury watchBredaBreda Esther Square Metal WatchBreda makes luxury watches that are usually just under or slightly over the $200 price range, and we love how they look for the price. This model comes in an 18K gold-plated case and stainless steel band.A hot sauce subscriptionFuego BoxFuego Box SubscriptionSpice things up with this hot sauce subscription, which delivers one or three hot sauces to your girlfriend's door every month. There's even an extra-hot version if her heat tolerance is off the charts.A fancy candleOtherlandOtherland CandleOtherland makes some of our favorite luxury candles, and for $36 a pop, they offer unique scent combos in a really beautiful, reusable container. You can also mix-and-match your own gift sets or shop exclusive collections.A customizable leather tote she'll use for yearsCuyanaCuyana System ToteShe'll happily replace her canvas tote for this sleek, sturdy leather one from Cuyana. It comes in a few neutral shades and can be customized with a crossbody strap or matching laptop case.A mug that always stays warmEmberEmber Mug 2If your girlfriend takes forever to sip their tea or coffee, get them this ingenious mug that keeps their beverage for as long as it takes for them to drink it all. It's also app-controlled, so they can use their phone to find the right temperature and presets.An annual pass to see US National ParksREIAmerica the Beautiful Pass 2023/2024If your girlfriend loves experiential gifts, look no further than this annual pass to most of the US National Parks. It accommodates a car of up to four people, so you can plan a trip with friends or family, too.UGG-like boots for half the priceQuinceQuince Australian Shearling Mini BootsUGG-style boots have been making a comeback, and these mini boots offer the same warmth, quality, and style for a fraction of the price of real UGGs.A dainty nameplate necklaceCatbirdCatbird Tiniest Name NecklaceNameplate necklaces consistently stay in style, so this piece is bound to become an everyday staple. You can pick her name, nickname, or even just a place she loves.A board game version of WordleThe popular online puzzle Wordle is being reimagined as a board game.Hasbro/The New York TimesWordle: The Party GameIf your girlfriend sends you her Wordle score every day, she'll be thrilled with the physical board game version. You can play against each other or have up to four people racing against the clock to guess the word first.A bestselling lip maskAmazonLaneige Lip Sleeping MaskIf your partner always complains of chapped lips (especially in the winter), this bestselling lip mask is a great, low-key gift that will leave their lips feeling smooth and nourished come morning. A card game to deepen personal connectionsUrban OutfittersWe're Not Really Strangers Card GameThis card game, from the popular Instagram account We're Not Really Strangers, is designed to enhance connections between people with different levels: perceptions, connection, and reflection. Not only is it a card game you haven't played before, but it's also a thoughtful activity you can enjoy with your girlfriend.A cookbook for movie night dinnersUncommon Goods"Eat What You Watch Cookbook" by Andrew ReaDinner and a movie: a classic pairing. Inspire future date nights with the "Eat What You Watch Cookbook." It has 41 as-seen-on-the-big-screen recipes — think hazelnut gelato from "Roman Holiday" and double-decker New York-style pizza inspired by "Saturday Night Fever" that you can prepare together for movie night.A customized map of her favorite placeGrafomapGrafomap Custom MapGrafomap lets you design custom maps of anywhere in the world — like the first place you met, the best trip you ever took together, or the hometown she couldn't wait to show you. It's unique, thoughtful, and pretty inexpensive.  You can find our full review here.A pack of highly-rated sheet masksAmazonDermal Sheet Mask Set (39-Pack)Grab 39 sheet masks to make it easier for your girlfriend to have a frequent and well-deserved "treat yourself" day. These are highly rated and have both vitamin E and collagen included for healthy, happy skin.   Silky, breathable leggingsEverlaneEverlane Perform LeggingsEverlane's Perform Leggings are some of our all-time favorites — they're breathable and silky, like a slightly less expensive version of Alo leggings. You can read a full review of the Everlane Perform Leggings and see pictures of them here.A sweet keepsake bookUncommon GoodsKnock Knock "What I Love About You by Me" BookIf your girlfriend has a sentimental side, this fill-in-the-blank book will make her melt. It's filled with over 110 pages of prompts where you can share all of the special, silly things you love about her. A large print of a favorite memoryArtifact UprisingArtifact Uprising Large Format PrintsArtifact Uprising makes luxury prints at accessible prices — and they make especially thoughtful gifts that look like they should cost much more. Get one of their favorite photos printed on archival fine art paper for $20 and up, or thoughtful cards for as little as $1.45 per custom card. You can also make a color series photo book for $22, a set of prints for $9, and a personalized calendar on a handcrafted wood clipboard for $30.A hair towel that reduces damage and cuts drying time by 50%AquisAquis Rapid Dry Lisse Hair TowelAquis' cult-favorite hair towels can cut the amount of time it takes for her hair to dry in half — a claim we're happy to report holds up. The proprietary fabric also means there's less damage to wet hair while it dries. A pass to get into a bunch of boutique fitness classesClasspassClassPass Gift CardBoutique fitness classes are expensive, which can make trying new workouts — either for variety or to figure out what we like — less appealing. ClassPass solves both issues. It's relatively affordable, and members can access a neverending catalog of great workouts with small class sizes. If your partner is getting back into fitness after over a year of at-home workouts, we'd highly recommend a gift card here for whenever they're ready to use it.A lamp that melts candles without lighting themCrystal Cox/Insiderluzdiosa Candle Warmer LampAside from looking cute, this TikTok-famous lamp warms candles up without lighting them. It helps your girlfriend enjoy her candles' scents whenever she wants without worrying about smoke or accidentally forgetting to put them out.An expertly designed plannerCrystal Cox/InsiderBestSelf Co. Self JournalThe Self Journal is an undated, 13-week planner that's designed for daily use and quarterly planning. It helps its owner break projects and goals into manageable chunks. We love it.If she's working towards a big goal, this could be a really thoughtful resource — especially if it's the kind of goal you can't help her achieve otherwise.Delicious sweets from a famous NYC bakeryMilk BarMilk Bar TreatsIf your girlfriend has a sweet tooth, send her Milk Bar — the company delivers its iconic and decadent cakes, cookies, and truffles to her doorstep.A soothing bath salt setMaudeMaude Tub Kit No. 3If you love your girlfriend but hate to see her burn out, you can treat her to this luxe bath set, which comes with two types of soaking salts and a coconut milk bath. You can choose from three different scent profiles — this one has notes of eucalyptus, sandalwood, cassis, and Haitian vetiver.The internet's favorite olive oilBrightlandBrightland Awake Olive OilBrightland's olive oils make great gifts for cooks and anyone else who loves to entertain. The white bottles protect the EVOO from light damage and look nice displayed on a countertop. Find a full review here. A framed keepsake of a favorite memoryFramebridgeFramebridge Framed PhotoFramebridge makes custom framing a bit more affordable. You can print or paint something on your own and have it framed, or have them print and frame it, and you can take advantage of the team of designers for help deciding what frame to get. The best socks she'll ever wearBombasBombas Women's Performance Running Ankle Sock 3-PackBombas makes the best socks we've ever tried, and they're a gift we find ourselves giving every year to loved ones. They're lightweight, moisture-wicking, and built to circumvent annoyances like uncomfortable seams and heel slipping.A 215-piece art kit for creative projectsAmazonArt 101 215-Piece Wood Art SetIf your girlfriend loves to create art, this 215-Piece art kit includes everything she'll need for projects: Crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, fine line markers, watercolor cakes, and acrylic paint.Her favorite specialty food straight from the sourceGoldbelly/InstagramGoldbelly Restaurant Meal KitsGoldbelly makes it possible to satisfy your girlfriend's most specific and nostalgic cravings no matter where they live in the US — a cheesecake from Junior's, deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati, and more. Browse the iconic gifts section for inspiration. A mug for hot and cold drinksHydro FlaskHydro Flask 12 oz. Coffee MugThis mug is a common desk companion for the Insider Reviews team. The 12-ounce coffee mug has the company's proprietary TempShield insulation that made its water bottles famous. This mug will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours, and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Read our full review of it here.A satin-lined beanieAndrea Bossi/InsiderKink and Coil Satin-Lined Beanie with Removable PompomMost people with naturally curly hair avoid wearing hats to reduce frizz, but Kink and Coil's satin-lined beanie solves that issue. Just like a silk pillowcase or a bonnet, the inside of the beanie is designed to protect your hair from frizz and damage. On top of that, the pom-pom can be removed, if she'd prefer to wear the hat without it.We spoke with a trichologist to learn more about how satin- and silk-lined beanies can benefit anyone with curly or high-porosity hair. A monthly book subscriptionBook of the Month/InstagramBook of the Month 3-Month MembershipIf she's a bookworm, Book of the Month is an especially thoughtful and unique gift — it's a book club that has been around since 1926, and it's credited with discovering some of the most beloved books of all time ("Gone with the Wind" and "Catcher in the Rye" to name a couple). If you gift her a subscription, she'll receive a hardcover book delivered to her door once a month. Books are selected by a team of experts and celebrity guest judges.A stylish leather makeup pouchDagne DoverDagne Dover Hunter Toiletry BagDagne Dover is quickly becoming one of the best women's handbag companies to know, and its toiletry pouches are a great and relatively affordable gift. The small size holds a handful of go-to toiletries, and the large should have enough space for all of the grooming essentials.A pasta maker you can use togetherWilliams SonomaImperia Pasta MachineBring the pasta maker and the fixings to make a delicious meal together. It's relatively easy to get the hang of, and you can enjoy quality time with the bonus of incredible ravioli or fettuccine on the other end of it. A custom birth chart bookBirthdate Co.Birthdate Co. Birthdate BookIf your girlfriend happens to be extremely into astrology (like, consistently asks for your exact time and location of birth so she can compare charts), surprise her with this thorough birth chart book. It comes bound in a hardcover book with beautiful illustrations that tell her zodiac story. The only caveat is you'll need to know when and where she was born, so you might need to sneakily text some friends and family first!An 8-in-1 pan that helps declutter her homeOur PlaceOur Place Always PanThe Always Pan from startup Our Place is a frying pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, non-stick pan, spatula, and spoon rest in the space of a single pan. In other words, a clever generalist that's extremely convenient for small spaces or minimalist cooks. You can read our review here.An elaborate charcuterie boardUncommon GoodsCompact Swivel Cheese & Tapas BoardFor the girlfriend who loves entertaining, help them live their biggest hosting dreams with this cheese and charcuterie board. With fold-out sections and cheese knives included, it has everything to create a truly stellar spread. Plus, for an added $10, you can get it personalized.A versatile exercise dressOutdoor VoicesOutdoor Voices The Exercise DressGiven the popularity of the Exercise Dress, we wouldn't be surprised if this was on your girlfriend's wish list. The Exercise Dress is comfortable, versatile, and cute — which has made it a cult-favorite item. If she's a fan of dresses, Outdoor Voices, or clothes she can wear all day long, this may be a good option. A tea subscriptionAtlas Tea ClubAtlas Tea Club SubscriptionThis subscription sends your girlfriend single-origin teas from the best tea-growing regions in the world for six months. She'll get two delicious options sent to her home each month.A bottle of Glossier perfumeGlossierGlossier You PerfumeGift your girl another opportunity to indulge in her personal beauty with this unique perfume. It has notes of pink pepper, woodsy ambrette seeds, and fresh iris — but also produces a scent unique to the wearer, making it the ultimate personal fragrance.A Dutch oven to elevate their bread gameLodgeLodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch OvenDid your girlfriend get into baking bread and, miraculously, stay committed to it? If so, a really nice Dutch oven can help elevate her experience. You can get something great for under $100, or you can splurge on a beautiful Le Creuset. Other meaningful upgrades include a cooling rack, according to the famous baker Apollonia Poilâne.A gift card to a popular wine subscription clubWincWinc Gift SubscriptionWinc is a personalized wine club — and we think it's the best one you can belong to overall. Members take a wine palate profile quiz and then choose from the personalized wine suggestions. Each bottle has extensive tasting notes and serving recommendations online, and makes it easy to discover similar bottles. Gift her a Winc gift card, and she can take a wine palate profile quiz and get started with her own customized suggestions. A sleek fitness tracker with heart rate monitoringHollis Johnson/Business InsiderFitbit Inspire 2Fitbit's affordable Inspire 2 tracker has no shortage of useful features to keep someone informed about their physical activity — tracking calorie burn, resting heart rate, and heart rate zones.The comfiest sneakersAllbirdsAllbirds Women's Wool RunnersThe classic Wool Runners make a great gift for the uninitiated, though we'd also highly recommend the brand's casual cup sole Wool Piper for everyday wear if that's more your partner's style. You can find our full review of the Runners here, and the Wool Pipers here.A monogrammed jewelry caseCuyanaCuyana Leather Jewelry CaseKeeping track of tiny and delicate jewelry is difficult — but jewelry cases are a pretty and useful solution. This is a thoughtful and personalized gift, especially if you've gotten your girlfriend jewelry in the past, or plan to in the future. It's made from premium leather, comes in many colors, and can be monogrammed with her initials. Cuyana is a cool leather bag startup she may have already heard of. A small skincare tool that packs a lot of punchAmazonForeo Luna Play Plus 2In the category of things your girlfriend may love but hasn't asked for yet: Foreo facial brushes. Our team swears by these gentle yet effective cleansing devices. They have hygienic silicone bristles and come in five different models for different skin types. The Luna is small enough to bring on the go, so your partner can maintain their skincare routine while traveling. A trendy crossbody for her phoneBandolierBandolier Kimberly Leather CrossbodyIf they hate carrying a bulky bag just to store their phone and wallet, this stylish crossbody case was invented for them. It accommodates a wide range of smartphones and features card slots and a snap pocket to keep their essentials all in one tiny, easy-to-access place.A planned trip for the two of you to take togetherAirbnbAirbnb Gift CardIf you want to gift an experience you and your girlfriend can enjoy together, grab a card, a gift card to Airbnb, and come up with a few location ideas to choose from. You can also book a hotel in your city on Booking.com or Expedia for a sweet staycation.A comfy loungewear set she can wear anywhereSpanxThis set made Oprah's Favorite Things list in 2022, but before that, it made our list of cool, useful products we tested or purchased recently. Our executive editor, Sally Kaplan, says this is one of the comfiest, softest, most flattering sets she's ever worn. The material is lightweight and buttery, not too hot but not too light.The pants are available in petite, regular, and tall sizes, and each set comes in a few neutral colors.  The sweatshirts come in a few different styles — cropped pullover, regular pullover, and half-zip — and if the wide leg pant isn't the right style for your gift recipient, you can also buy a tapered jogger-style pant in the same material for $110.A comfy zip-up for the months aheadPatagoniaPatagonia Women's Better SweaterPatagonia makes our favorite athleisure options overall, and that definitely includes the Better Sweater. It works in pretty much any environment — in the office, at home, on a hike, or on a casual night out — and has zippered pockets to keep hands warm in the cold months. We're also big fans of the 1/4 Zip option.A waterproof Kindle for reading anywhereAmazonAmazon Kindle PaperwhiteIf your girlfriend is a reader, we'd suggest looking at Amazon's Kindle Paperwhite — it's one of our favorite e-readers on the market. With its built-in adjustable light and waterproof rating, it's perfect for reading environments indoors or outdoors, day or night. If she loves a nice, relaxing bath, pair this with a caddy, bath bombs, and a glass of wine for a relaxing night in that you've already taken care of.  A houseplant that arrives already pottedLeon & GeorgeLeon & George Silver EvergreenLeon & George is a San Francisco startup that will send beautiful plants — potted in stylish, minimalist pots — to your girlfriend's door. All she has to do is to occasionally add water. Flowers are wonderful, but houseplants have a much longer shelf life, and most of Leon & George's options are very easy to care for. We'd also recommend checking out Bloomscape for small plant trios under $70.  A cashmere crewEverlaneEverlane The Cashmere CrewFor a closet staple she'll own for years to come, Everlane's $120 Cashmere Crew (available in various colors) is about the safest choice you can make. Everlane has plenty of great gifts (you can find the Everlane basics we wear repeatedly here), so you can't really go wrong. The best bathrobe money can buyParachuteParachute Classic Turkish Cotton RobeWe think the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe is the best robe on the market. It's soft, fluffy, and absorbent like a towel. It's also got nice deep pockets and a secure waist tie.A high-tech yoga towel prevents slippingMandukaManduka Yogitoes Yoga Mat TowelManduka is known for making the best yoga products, and their Yogitoes towel is one of the most loved. It has tiny 100% silicone nubs on one side that grab yoga mats and keep yogis from slipping around during the exercise. Having a good towel can make a big difference. It also comes in 19 great colors and gets eco-friendly points. Each Yogitoes towel is made from eight recycled plastic water bottles, and made with dyes free of azo, lead, or heavy metal. A new pair of comfy BirkenstocksNordstromBirkenstock Women's Arizona Slide SandalIf your girlfriend wears the unbelievably comfortable Birkenstocks most days, she might appreciate a new, unblemished pair. They're also in style. Apple AirPods Pro for when she's on the moveCrystal Cox/Business InsiderApple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)We love Apple's AirPods Pro for Apple users. They're no-hassle, work with Apple products, have decent sound and noise cancellation, are water-resistant, have a wireless charging case, and feel more comfortable than standard AirPods. You'll find more wireless earbuds we love here.A convertible work and travel bag to keep her organizedCaraa SportCaraa Studio Tote (Medium)Caraa Sport makes some of the most functional and best-looking gym bags on the market. This one can transition from a tote to a backpack by adding straps. It also has a hidden shoe compartment and a waterproof and antimicrobial lining. You can read our full review of this bag here.A small, portable movie projectorAmazonAnker Nebula CapsuleThis is one of the most portable (and affordable) projectors. It's about the size of a soda can, weighs one pound, and has crisp image quality and 360° sound. Use it at home or bring it with you on your travels. Find a full review of the Anker Nebula Capsule here. Comfy, high-end sheetsBrooklinenBrooklinen Luxe Hardcore Sheet BundleBrooklinen is one of our favorite companies, point-blank. We think they make the best high-end sheets at the best price on the market, and most of the Insider Reviews team uses Brooklinen on their own beds.The Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle comes in plenty of colors and patterns, and you can mix and match them to suit your taste. Grab a gift card if you want to give her more freedom. If you opt for a sheet bundle, she'll receive a core sheet set (fitted, flat, two pillowcases), duvet cover, and two extra pillowcases in a soft, smooth 480-thread-count weave.The best noise-canceling headphonesAmazonSony WH-1000XM4 HeadphonesIf your girlfriend is into music, the best gift is the one that improves her everyday music-listening experience. For that, we recommend our favorite noise-canceling headphones — Sony's WH-1000XM4 — that balance sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort at a solid price.You can find more good noise-canceling headphone options here.A powerful portable speakerAmazonSonos MoveThe Sonos Move is the best Bluetooth speaker that we've tested. It's powerful, can be controlled by voice or an app, and has Amazon Alexa built-in so on WiFi you can play music, check the news, set alarms, get your questions answered, and more, without much effort.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

We rounded up 79 unique, thoughtful, and romantic gifts to give your girlfriend, from keepsake jewelry to useful tech and fitness accessories. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.Urban Outfitters/CatbirdWhether it's for her birthday, Valentine's Day, or just because, your girlfriend deserves a great gift. You can take a lot of different routes: A stylish accessory she'll wear all the time, a practical gift she doesn't know she needs, a romantic trinket she'll treasure for years to come…the list goes on.Whatever your budget and the occasion, we've come up with 79 gifts that any type of girlfriend is sure to appreciate. From a luxurious blanket for the homebody to a great pair of headphones for the audiophile, the ideas below run the gamut.An affordable luxury watchBredaBreda Esther Square Metal WatchBreda makes luxury watches that are usually just under or slightly over the $200 price range, and we love how they look for the price. This model comes in an 18K gold-plated case and stainless steel band.A hot sauce subscriptionFuego BoxFuego Box SubscriptionSpice things up with this hot sauce subscription, which delivers one or three hot sauces to your girlfriend's door every month. There's even an extra-hot version if her heat tolerance is off the charts.A fancy candleOtherlandOtherland CandleOtherland makes some of our favorite luxury candles, and for $36 a pop, they offer unique scent combos in a really beautiful, reusable container. You can also mix-and-match your own gift sets or shop exclusive collections.A customizable leather tote she'll use for yearsCuyanaCuyana System ToteShe'll happily replace her canvas tote for this sleek, sturdy leather one from Cuyana. It comes in a few neutral shades and can be customized with a crossbody strap or matching laptop case.A mug that always stays warmEmberEmber Mug 2If your girlfriend takes forever to sip their tea or coffee, get them this ingenious mug that keeps their beverage for as long as it takes for them to drink it all. It's also app-controlled, so they can use their phone to find the right temperature and presets.An annual pass to see US National ParksREIAmerica the Beautiful Pass 2023/2024If your girlfriend loves experiential gifts, look no further than this annual pass to most of the US National Parks. It accommodates a car of up to four people, so you can plan a trip with friends or family, too.More modern cocktail glassesAnthropologieAnthropologie Ramona Coupe Glasses (Set of 4)For the girlfriend who loves hosting, get them these modern coupe glasses they'll get compliments on every time they have people over (which will be a lot more often now).An instant camera she can also use with BluetoothAmazonPolaroid OneStep+ White (9015) Bluetooth Connected Instant Film CameraFor the girlfriend who loves snapping pics, give her the option of either using the camera or connecting her phone and directly printing from her camera roll. It also comes with two lenses — standard and portrait — so she'll never miss her shot.UGG-like boots for half the priceQuinceQuince Australian Shearling Mini BootsUGG-style boots have been making a comeback, and these mini boots offer the same warmth, quality, and style for a fraction of the price of real UGGs.A dainty nameplate necklaceCatbirdCatbird Tiniest Name NecklaceNameplate necklaces consistently stay in style, so this piece is bound to become an everyday staple. You can pick her name, nickname, or even just a place she loves.A quirky planterAnthropologieAnthropologie Grecian Bust PotIf you got them new flowers, why not pair with a fun thing to hold them in? This Grecian bust pot is the perfect quirky (yet still elegant) touch for their home.A board game version of WordleThe popular online puzzle Wordle is being reimagined as a board game.Hasbro/The New York TimesWordle: The Party GameIf your girlfriend sends you her Wordle score every day, she'll be thrilled with the physical board game version. You can play against each other or have up to four people racing against the clock to guess the word first.A bestselling lip maskAmazonLaneige Lip Sleeping MaskIf your partner always complains of chapped lips (especially in the winter), this bestselling lip mask is a great, low-key gift that will leave their lips feeling smooth and nourished come morning. A card game to deepen personal connectionsUrban OutfittersWe're Not Really Strangers Card GameThis card game, from the popular Instagram account We're Not Really Strangers, is designed to enhance connections between people with different levels: perceptions, connection, and reflection. Not only is it a card game you haven't played before, but it's also a thoughtful activity you can enjoy with your girlfriend.A cookbook for movie night dinnersUncommon Goods"Eat What You Watch Cookbook" by Andrew ReaDinner and a movie: a classic pairing. Inspire future date nights with the "Eat What You Watch Cookbook." It has 41 as-seen-on-the-big-screen recipes — think hazelnut gelato from "Roman Holiday" and double-decker New York-style pizza inspired by "Saturday Night Fever" that you can prepare together for movie night.A customized map of her favorite placeGrafomapGrafomap Custom MapGrafomap lets you design custom maps of anywhere in the world — like the first place you met, the best trip you ever took together, or the hometown she couldn't wait to show you. It's unique, thoughtful, and pretty inexpensive.  You can find our full review here.A pack of highly-rated sheet masksAmazonDermal Sheet Mask Set (39-Pack)Grab 39 sheet masks to make it easier for your girlfriend to have a frequent and well-deserved "treat yourself" day. These are highly rated and have both vitamin E and collagen included for healthy, happy skin.   Silky, breathable leggingsEverlaneEverlane Perform LeggingsEverlane's Perform Leggings are some of our all-time favorites — they're breathable and silky, like a slightly less expensive version of Alo leggings. You can read a full review of the Everlane Perform Leggings and see pictures of them here.A sweet keepsake bookUncommon GoodsKnock Knock "What I Love About You by Me" BookIf your girlfriend has a sentimental side, this fill-in-the-blank book will make her melt. It's filled with over 110 pages of prompts where you can share all of the special, silly things you love about her. A large print of a favorite memoryArtifact UprisingArtifact Uprising Large Format PrintsArtifact Uprising makes luxury prints at accessible prices — and they make especially thoughtful gifts that look like they should cost much more. Get one of their favorite photos printed on archival fine art paper for $20 and up, or thoughtful cards for as little as $1.45 per custom card. You can also make a color series photo book for $22, a set of prints for $9, and a personalized calendar on a handcrafted wood clipboard for $30.A hair towel that reduces damage and cuts drying time by 50%AquisAquis Rapid Dry Lisse Hair TowelAquis' cult-favorite hair towels can cut the amount of time it takes for her hair to dry in half — a claim we're happy to report holds up. The proprietary fabric also means there's less damage to wet hair while it dries. A pass to get into a bunch of boutique fitness classesClasspassClassPass Gift CardBoutique fitness classes are expensive, which can make trying new workouts — either for variety or to figure out what we like — less appealing. ClassPass solves both issues. It's relatively affordable, and members can access a neverending catalog of great workouts with small class sizes. If your partner is getting back into fitness after over a year of at-home workouts, we'd highly recommend a gift card here for whenever they're ready to use it.A lamp that melts candles without lighting themCrystal Cox/Insiderluzdiosa Candle Warmer LampAside from looking cute, this TikTok-famous lamp warms candles up without lighting them. It helps your girlfriend enjoy her candles' scents whenever she wants without worrying about smoke or accidentally forgetting to put them out.An expertly designed plannerCrystal Cox/InsiderBestSelf Co. Self JournalThe Self Journal is an undated, 13-week planner that's designed for daily use and quarterly planning. It helps its owner break projects and goals into manageable chunks. We love it.If she's working towards a big goal, this could be a really thoughtful resource — especially if it's the kind of goal you can't help her achieve otherwise.Delicious sweets from a famous NYC bakeryMilk BarMilk Bar TreatsIf your girlfriend has a sweet tooth, send her Milk Bar — the company delivers its iconic and decadent cakes, cookies, and truffles to her doorstep.A soothing bath salt setMaudeMaude Tub Kit No. 3If you love your girlfriend but hate to see her burn out, you can treat her to this luxe bath set, which comes with two types of soaking salts and a coconut milk bath. You can choose from three different scent profiles — this one has notes of eucalyptus, sandalwood, cassis, and Haitian vetiver.The internet's favorite olive oilBrightlandBrightland Awake Olive OilBrightland's olive oils make great gifts for cooks and anyone else who loves to entertain. The white bottles protect the EVOO from light damage and look nice displayed on a countertop. Find a full review here. A framed keepsake of a favorite memoryFramebridgeFramebridge Framed Photo Framebridge makes custom framing a bit more affordable. You can print or paint something on your own and have it framed, or have them print and frame it, and you can take advantage of the team of designers for help deciding what frame to get. The best socks she'll ever wearBombasBombas Women's Performance Running Ankle Sock 3-PackBombas makes the best socks we've ever tried, and they're a gift we find ourselves giving every year to loved ones. They're lightweight, moisture-wicking, and built to circumvent annoyances like uncomfortable seams and heel slipping.A stunning puzzle that doubles as decorPiecework PuzzlesPiecework Puzzles Garden Party PuzzlePiecework makes beautiful puzzles out of vibrant, creative photos — so much so that when you're finally done with them, your girlfriend will probably want to glue it all together and hang it up.A 215-piece art kit for creative projectsAmazonArt 101 215-Piece Wood Art SetIf your girlfriend loves to create art, this 215-Piece art kit includes everything she'll need for projects: Crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, fine line markers, watercolor cakes, and acrylic paint.Her favorite specialty food straight from the sourceGoldbelly/InstagramGolbelly Restaurant Meal KitsGoldbelly makes it possible to satisfy your girlfriend's most specific and nostalgic cravings no matter where they live in the US — a cheesecake from Junior's, deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati, and more. Browse the iconic gifts section for inspiration. A weighted blanket for better restAmazonYnM Weighted BlanketWeighted blankets help create more restful sleep by "grounding" the body, and YnM makes some of the most popular and affordable weighted blankets on the internet. There are multiple sizes and weights for the ideal fit and width (they recommend picking whichever is about 10% of your body weight), and the segmented design allows you to move around without displacing all the weighted beads inside. A mug for hot and cold drinksHydro FlaskHydro Flask 12 oz. Coffee MugThis mug is a common desk companion for the Insider Reviews team. The 12-ounce coffee mug has the company's proprietary TempShield insulation that made its water bottles famous. This mug will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours, and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Read our full review of it here.Fun, matching underwearMeUndiesMeUndies Matching SetGet yourself and your girlfriend festive matching underwear — which also happen to be some of the most comfortable pairs we've ever found. MeUndies gives you the option to create your own personalized set — two styles listed for women, two styles listed for men, a mix, and whichever length or cut you and your partner prefer. Personalized cartoon couple mugsUncommon GoodsUncommon Goods Personalized Family MugsThese cute mugs can be personalized for what you're like as a couple, making for a special weekend morning coffee routine or just a nice reminder in the kitchen cabinet. On the back, you can add a family name and the year the couple was established if you'd like. A satin-lined beanieAndrea Bossi/InsiderKink and Coil Satin-Lined Beanie with Removable PompomMost people with naturally curly hair avoid wearing hats to reduce frizz, but Kink and Coil's satin-lined beanie solves that issue. Just like a silk pillowcase or a bonnet, the inside of the beanie is designed to protect your hair from frizz and damage. On top of that, the pom-pom can be removed, if she'd prefer to wear the hat without it.We spoke with a trichologist to learn more about how satin- and silk-lined beanies can benefit anyone with curly or high-porosity hair. A monthly book subscriptionBook of the Month/InstagramBook of the Month 3-Month MembershipIf she's a bookworm, Book of the Month is an especially thoughtful and unique gift — it's a book club that has been around since 1926, and it's credited with discovering some of the most beloved books of all time ("Gone with the Wind" and "Catcher in the Rye" to name a couple). If you gift her a subscription, she'll receive a hardcover book delivered to her door once a month. Books are selected by a team of experts and celebrity guest judges.A stylish leather makeup pouchDagne DoverDagne Dover Hunter Toiletry BagDagne Dover is quickly becoming one of the best women's handbag companies to know, and its toiletry pouches are a great and relatively affordable gift. The small size holds a handful of go-to toiletries, and the large should have enough space for all of the grooming essentials.The fuzziest, comfiest throw blanketAnthropologieAnthropologie Sophie Faux Fur Throw BlanketWith colder weather coming up, your partner will get a lot of good use out of this ultra warm, fuzzy blanket. It's perfect for those nights spent curled up on the couch watching movies together.A custom phone case of her petWest & WillowWest & Willow Custom Pet Portrait Phone CaseIf your girlfriend loves her dog or cat more than anything, this sleek custom portrait of their pet printed on an iPhone case will absolutely floor them. It's perfect for anyone who wants any excuse to look at their furry friend even more.A pasta maker you can use togetherWilliams SonomaImperia Pasta MachineBring the pasta maker and the fixings to make a delicious meal together. It's relatively easy to get the hang of, and you can enjoy quality time with the bonus of incredible ravioli or fettuccine on the other end of it. A custom birth chart bookBirthdate Co.Birthdate Co. Birthdate BookIf your girlfriend happens to be extremely into astrology (like, consistently asks for your exact time and location of birth so she can compare charts), surprise her with this thorough birth chart book. It comes bound in a hardcover book with beautiful illustrations that tell her zodiac story. The only caveat is you'll need to know when and where she was born, so you might need to sneakily text some friends and family first!An 8-in-1 pan that helps declutter her homeOur PlaceOur Place Always PanThe Always Pan from startup Our Place is a frying pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, non-stick pan, spatula, and spoon rest in the space of a single pan. In other words, a clever generalist that's extremely convenient for small spaces or minimalist cooks. You can read our review here.A beautiful bouquetUrban StemsUrban Stems BouquetSend flowers to her doorstep. We're fans of UrbanStems; Its bouquets are one of the best things we've ever tested. If you're looking for something that won't be gone after a couple of weeks, you'll also find options for potted plants and low-maintenance, decor-friendly dried bouquets.An elaborate charcuterie boardUncommon GoodsCompact Swivel Cheese & Tapas BoardFor the girlfriend who loves entertaining, help them live their biggest hosting dreams with this cheese and charcuterie board. With fold-out sections and cheese knives included, it has everything to create a truly stellar spread. Plus, for an added $10, you can get it personalized.A versatile exercise dressOutdoor VoicesOutdoor Voices The Exercise DressGiven the popularity of the Exercise Dress, we wouldn't be surprised if this was on your girlfriend's wish list. The Exercise Dress is comfortable, versatile, and cute — which has made it a cult-favorite item. If she's a fan of dresses, Outdoor Voices, or clothes she can wear all day long, this may be a good option. A tea subscriptionAtlas Tea ClubAtlas Tea Club SubscriptionThis subscription sends your girlfriend single-origin teas from the best tea-growing regions in the world for six months. She'll get two delicious options sent to her home each month.A bottle of Glossier perfumeGlossierGlossier You PerfumeGift your girl another opportunity to indulge in her personal beauty with this unique perfume. It has notes of pink pepper, woodsy ambrette seeds, and fresh iris — but also produces a scent unique to the wearer, making it the ultimate personal fragrance.A Dutch oven to elevate their bread gameLodgeLodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch OvenDid your girlfriend get into baking bread and, miraculously, stay committed to it? If so, a really nice Dutch oven can help elevate her experience. You can get something great for under $100, or you can splurge on a beautiful Le Creuset. Other meaningful upgrades include a cooling rack, according to the famous baker Apollonia Poilâne.A gift card to a popular wine subscription clubWincWinc Gift SubscriptionWinc is a personalized wine club — and we think it's the best one you can belong to overall. Members take a wine palate profile quiz and then choose from the personalized wine suggestions. Each bottle has extensive tasting notes and serving recommendations online, and makes it easy to discover similar bottles. Gift her a Winc gift card, and she can take a wine palate profile quiz and get started with her own customized suggestions. A video message from someone she lovesCameoCameo Video MessageWhether it's your girlfriend's favorite actor, comedian, or athlete, you're likely to find someone she admires on Cameo. Cameo allows celebrities to send custom video messages to recipients for nearly any occasion, and a personalized video is a gift that she'll never forget. Note: While Cameo prices really range, many of the popular celebs cost over $50.A sleek fitness tracker with heart rate monitoringFitbitFitbit Inspire 2Fitbit's affordable Inspire 2 tracker has no shortage of useful features to keep someone informed about their physical activity — tracking calorie burn, resting heart rate, and heart rate zones.The comfiest sneakersAllbirdsAllbirds Women's Wool RunnersThe classic Wool Runners make a great gift for the uninitiated, though we'd also highly recommend the brand's casual cup sole Wool Piper for everyday wear if that's more your partner's style. You can find our full review of the Runners here, and the Wool Pipers here.A monogrammed jewelry caseCuyanaCuyana Leather Jewelry CaseKeeping track of tiny and delicate jewelry is difficult — but jewelry cases are a pretty and useful solution. This is a thoughtful and personalized gift, especially if you've gotten your girlfriend jewelry in the past, or plan to in the future. It's made from premium leather, comes in many colors, and can be monogrammed with her initials. Cuyana is a cool leather bag startup she may have already heard of. A small skincare tool that packs a lot of punchAmazonForeo Luna Play Plus 2In the category of things your girlfriend may love but hasn't asked for yet: Foreo facial brushes. Our team swears by these gentle yet effective cleansing devices. They have hygienic silicone bristles and come in five different models for different skin types. The Luna is small enough to bring on the go, so your partner can maintain their skincare routine while traveling. A dainty custom ringCatbirdCatbird Bittersweets NY Famous Letter RingThis delicate band looks beautiful worn on its own or stacked with the rest of their ring collection. Choose from yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold, a matte or shiny finish, and then add the final touch: A custom engraving of up to 11 letters. A trendy crossbody for her phoneBandolierBandolier Kimberly Leather CrossbodyIf they hate carrying a bulky bag just to store their phone and wallet, this stylish crossbody case was invented for them. It accommodates a wide range of smartphones and features card slots and a snap pocket to keep their essentials all in one tiny, easy-to-access place.A planned trip for the two of you to take togetherAirbnbAirbnb Gift CardIf you want to gift an experience you and your girlfriend can enjoy together, grab a card, a gift card to Airbnb, and come up with a few location ideas to choose from. You can also book a hotel in your city on Booking.com or Expedia for a sweet staycation.A comfy loungewear set she can wear anywhereSpanxThis set made Oprah's Favorite Things list in 2022, but before that, it made our list of cool, useful products we tested or purchased recently. Our executive editor, Sally Kaplan, says this is one of the comfiest, softest, most flattering sets she's ever worn. The material is lightweight and buttery, not too hot but not too light.The pants are available in petite, regular, and tall sizes, and each set comes in a few neutral colors.  The sweatshirts come in a few different styles — cropped pullover, regular pullover, and half-zip — and if the wide leg pant isn't the right style for your gift recipient, you can also buy a tapered jogger-style pant in the same material for $110.A stylish vinyl playerUrban OutfittersCrosley UO Exclusive Checkered Ryder TurntablePart of a collab between Urban Outfitters and Crosley, this vinyl player features a checkerboard design, is easily portable, and can also stream music via Bluetooth.Earrings made with her birthstoneMejuriMejuri Amethyst Flat Sphere StudsIf your girlfriend wears jewelry, birthstone earrings that she can keep forever are a thoughtful, personalized gift she'll wear often.  A great foam rollerCrystal Cox/InsiderTB12 Vibrating Pliability RollerIf your girlfriend is very physically active, a foam roller is a nice gift to aid in her workout recovery and soreness. This one is our favorite because it has four levels of vibration, a pattern that targets muscle groups, and a durable exterior. But, if your budget doesn't fit a $160 foam roller, never fear — we like some under-$50 options too. A comfy zip-up for the months aheadPatagoniaPatagonia Women's Better SweaterPatagonia makes our favorite athleisure options overall, and that definitely includes the Better Sweater. It works in pretty much any environment — in the office, at home, on a hike, or on a casual night out — and has zippered pockets to keep hands warm in the cold months. We're also big fans of the 1/4 Zip option.A waterproof Kindle for reading anywhereAmazonAmazon Kindle PaperwhiteIf your girlfriend is a reader, we'd suggest looking at Amazon's Kindle Paperwhite; it's the company's thinnest and lightest yet, with double the storage. Perhaps the best features are that it's waterproof and has a built-in adjustable light for the perfect reading environment indoors or outdoors, day or night. If she loves a nice, relaxing bath, pair this with a caddy, bath bombs, and a glass of wine for a relaxing night in that you've already taken care of.  A houseplant that arrives already pottedLeon & GeorgeLeon & George Silver EvergreenLeon & George is a San Francisco startup that will send beautiful plants — potted in stylish, minimalist pots — to your girlfriend's door. All she has to do is to occasionally add water. Flowers are wonderful, but houseplants have a much longer shelf life, and most of Leon & George's options are very easy to care for. We'd also recommend checking out Bloomscape for small plant trios under $70.  A cashmere crewEverlaneEverlane The Cashmere CrewFor a closet staple she'll own for years to come, Everlane's $120 Cashmere Crew (available in various colors) is about the safest choice you can make. Everlane has plenty of great gifts (you can find the Everlane basics we wear repeatedly here), so you can't really go wrong. The best bathrobe money can buyParachuteParachute Classic Turkish Cotton RobeWe think the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe is the best robe on the market. It's soft, fluffy, and absorbent like a towel. It's also got nice deep pockets and a secure waist tie.A high-tech yoga towel prevents slippingMandukaManduka Yogitoes Yoga Mat TowelManduka is known for making the best yoga products, and their Yogitoes towel is one of the most loved. It has tiny 100% silicone nubs on one side that grab yoga mats and keep yogis from slipping around during the exercise. Having a good towel can make a big difference. It also comes in 19 great colors and gets eco-friendly points. Each Yogitoes towel is made from eight recycled plastic water bottles, and made with dyes free of azo, lead, or heavy metal. A new pair of comfy BirkenstocksNordstromBirkenstock Women's Arizona Slide SandalIf your girlfriend wears the unbelievably comfortable Birkenstocks most days, she might appreciate a new, unblemished pair. They're also in style. Apple AirPods Pro for when she's on the moveCrystal Cox/Business InsiderApple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)We love Apple's AirPods Pro for Apple users. They're no-hassle, work with Apple products, have decent sound and noise cancellation, are water-resistant, have a wireless charging case, and feel more comfortable than standard AirPods. You'll find more wireless earbuds we love here.A convertible work and travel bag to keep her organizedCaraa SportCaraa Studio Tote (Medium)Caraa Sport makes some of the most functional and best-looking gym bags on the market. This one can transition from a tote to a backpack by adding straps. It also has a hidden shoe compartment and a waterproof and antimicrobial lining. You can read our full review of this bag here.A small, portable movie projectorAmazonAnker Nebula CapsuleThis is one of the most portable (and affordable) projectors. It's about the size of a soda can, weighs one pound, and has crisp image quality and 360° sound. Use it at home or bring it with you on your travels. Find a full review of the Anker Nebula Capsule here. Comfy, high-end sheetsBrooklinenBrooklinen Luxe Hardcore Sheet BundleBrooklinen is one of our favorite companies, point-blank. We think they make the best high-end sheets at the best price on the market, and most of the Insider Reviews team uses Brooklinen on their own beds.The Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle comes in plenty of colors and patterns, and you can mix and match them to suit your taste. Grab a gift card if you want to give her more freedom. If you opt for a sheet bundle, she'll receive a core sheet set (fitted, flat, two pillowcases), duvet cover, and two extra pillowcases in a soft, smooth 480-thread-count weave.A pair of beautiful pearl earringsStone and StrandStone and Strand Elliptical Pearl HuggiesPearls are timeless, but they're also one of the jewelry trends we're keeping an eye on. This pair, from the women-led startup Stone and Strand, is made with 14K gold with freshwater pearls.The best noise-canceling headphonesAmazonSony WH-1000XM4 HeadphonesIf your girlfriend is into music, the best gift is the one that improves her everyday music-listening experience. For that, we recommend our favorite noise-canceling headphones — Sony's WH-1000XM4 — that balance sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort at a solid price.You can find more good noise-canceling headphone options here.A stylish carry-on with an external battery packAwayAway The Carry-OnAway's hyper-popular suitcases deserve their hype. Their hard shell is lightweight but durable, their 360° spinner wheels make for seamless traveling, and the external (and ejectable and TSA-compliant) battery pack included can charge a smartphone five times over so she never has to sit behind a trash can at the airport for access to an outlet again. It's also guaranteed for life by Away. Find our full review here.A powerful portable speakerAmazonSonos MoveThe Sonos Move is one of the best speakers on the market. It's powerful, can be controlled by voice or an app, and has Amazon Alexa built-in so on WiFi you can play music, check the news, set alarms, get your questions answered, and more, without much effort.A delicate, timeless diamond necklaceAurateAurate Diamond Bezel NecklaceThis is something your girlfriend will wear and own forever. A delicate diamond necklace is an essential piece and will (probably) never go out of style. This option is from one of our favorite startups, Aurate — an ethical fine jewelry startup founded by two women from the Netherlands and Morocco, respectively. Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Show your grandparents how much their years of hugs, advice, and good food mean to you with these sweet gifts. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.Amazon; Uncommon GoodsWe'll guess that your grandparents have been spoiling you your whole life, and now it's time to return the favor. To help you find gifts as meaningful as they are, we've compiled an extensive list of presents at various price points for a variety of interests.Whether you're on the hunt for a holiday gift, celebrating a birthday, or just want to shower them with love and appreciation, we've culled items that are thoughtful, useful, and beautiful. For example, a calendar of personal photos to relive the memories you've made, a card game to help you get to know them better, a cooking subscription you can use together, and spa-like comfort in the form of cozy, luxurious robes. Read on for 47 gifts your grandparents will absolutely adore.Super plush robes for cozy loungingBrooklinenBrooklinen Super-Plush Robe, available at Brooklinen, $99 Give the gift of spa-like comfort with ultra-plush robes from cult-favorite bedding and bath brand Brooklinen. The unisex long-staple Turkish cotton robe comes in 13 color varieties and sizes XS-XL. Read our full review of the luxe robe here.A subscription service to keep them learningMasterClassMasterClass annual membership, available at MasterClass, from $15Give your grandparents the opportunity to explore untapped passions with unlimited access to over 180 classes — ranging from cooking with Wolfgang Puck to mindfulness with meditation experts and more — delivered in bite-size lessons. You can even join them for some classes and pick up a new hobby together. You can read more about how MasterClass works here.A soothing foot massagerAmazonNekTeck Foot Massager, available at Amazon, from $49.99Tired and aching feet will appreciate a deep kneading foot massage with gentle heat therapy from this budget-friendly device, which fits a wide range of foot sizes and can even be used on other parts of the body such as thighs and calves.If you prefer to splurge on a version with more bells and whistles, consider RENPHO's Foot Massage Machine. You can read about all of our favorite foot massagers here.A conversation-starting activityAmazonPropmta 200 Get to Know Your Grandparents Conversation Starter Cards, available at Amazon, $22.99This gift is one that keeps giving back. This set of cards contains 200 questions that were designed to prompt interesting and significant conversations between grandparents and their grandchildren.An adventure-ready wheeled coolerAmazonYeti Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler, available at Amazon, Yeti, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Ace Hardware, $450If road trips, sports games, outdoor concerts, or picnics are some of your grandparents' favorite activities, they'll definitely appreciate our favorite rugged cooler by Yeti, which was recently redesigned with wheels and a retractable handle for easier transport.  Learn more about the splurge-worthy ice chest by reading our full review.A Hello Fresh gift card for a fun and simple cooking experienceHello FreshMeal Gift Card, available at Hello Fresh, from $75Gift your grandparent a fun cooking experience with a Hello Fresh gift card. You can select from four gift card amounts starting at $70 to put toward their desired recipe or meal plan. They won't have to worry about driving to the grocery store, since all the ingredients will be delivered to their front door.An intricate jigsaw puzzlePuzzledlyLittle Boxes on the Hillside 1,000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle, available at Puzzledly, $22Giving your grandparents a jigsaw puzzle is a win-win; not only is it a fun gift, but it also can be an activity done together as a family. This particular puzzle is 1,000 pieces and depicts colorful homes on a hillside.A pair of Crocs they can wear anywhereCrocsCrocs Unisex Classic Clog, available at Amazon, Walmart, and Nordstrom, from $32.70Whether it's in their favorite print or color, Crocs could be the perfect gift for your grandparent. These slide-on shoes are comfortable, easy to clean, and can be worn anywhere and easily styled with most outfits.A tiny smart garden that they can grow herbs in easily and year-roundAmazonClick and Grow Smart Garden, available at Click and Grow and Amazon, $229.95If your grandparents love gardening or cooking, this kitchen garden is great for fresh herbs and year-round gardening and comes with pods for mini tomatoes, basil, and green lettuce. Not all climates and spaces are hospitable to herbs, but Click and Grow maintains one that is. It's low-maintenance so there's not a ton of involvement with tech or even much watering, and they're not likely to already have one. A free admission pass to America's national parksREIAmerica the Beautiful Pass, available at REI, $79.99Trips taken with your grandparents make for the fondest memories. Gift them this annual park pass that lets them experience all of America's parks — it offers free admission for up to four accompanied adults. With this purchase, REI will also donate 10% of these proceeds to the National Park Foundation.A mug warmer for a cozy beverageAmazonMr. Coffee Mug Warmer, available at Amazon, Target, and Walmart, $13.49Any gift that effortlessly improves their daily life is ideal for a grandparent. Whether it's tea or coffee, this mug warmer warms up their favorite beverages in two minutes. A DNA test that lets them delve into family historyancestryDNAAncestryDNA Genetic Test, available at Ancestry, from $99Your grandparents are the origins and default architects of much of your life, and AncestryDNA gives them (and you) the chance to explore and appreciate that history. They'll be able to see their heritage and genetic breakdown (aka 50% Irish, 30% Italian, and so on) and can build family trees complete with historical documents and censuses already on the site. Luxurious sheets to make their bed even dreamierBrooklinenBrooklinen Heathered Cashmere Core Sheet Set, available at Brooklinen, from $269.10If their sheets could use a plush upgrade, consider Brooklinen's cozy, fuzzy heathered cashmere set which includes a flat and fitted sheet and two pillowcases. The brand also makes a brushed flannel version, which is equally heavenly and comes in fun colorways.Read our full guide to Brooklinen's sheet varieties here.A popular vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottleHydro FlaskHydro Flask 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Bottle, available at REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Hydro Flask, $44.95This vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle works really well. It keeps hot drinks hot for up to six hours, and cold drinks cold up to 24. We also love this mug version.The latest Apple AirPodsAppleApple AirPods 3rd Gen, available at Target, Walmart, and Apple, from $149.99Bluetooth headphones always make a great gift for anyone with a smartphone. If grandma and grandpa are iPhone users, AirPods are the best choice because they're incredibly easy to pair and carry.Nice tea and a cute infuserAmazonGenuine Fred Duck Tea Infuser, available at Amazon, $15.40Buy a cute tea infuser and your grandparents will think of you every time they use it. Don't forget to pair it with some delicious loose-leaf tea blends.The collectible edition of a favorite bookBarnes and NobleGrimm's Complete Fairy Tales (Collectible Editions), available at Barnes & Noble, $22.50Grab one of your grandparents' favorite books in one of Barnes & Noble's Collectible Editions Classics to gift them a pillar for their home library. These volumes feature authoritative texts by some of the world's most renowned authors and come in beautifully designed bonded-leather binding with gilt edging and a ribbon bookmark. A pair of comfortable sneakersAllbirdsShop all Allbirds sneakers here, from $100Everyone deserves comfortable sneakers and if your grandparents aren't familiar with Allbirds, it's time to get them up to speed. The brand makes footwear using sustainable materials like merino wool, recycled trees, sugarcane, and natural rubber. Check out all of our reviews on Allbirds sneakers to choose the best pair for them.Frame one of your favorite memories with themFramebridgeFramed Photo, available at Framebridge, from $45Gift Card, available at Framebridge, from $25Framebridge makes custom framing for not-custom-framing prices. You can print or paint something on your own and have it framed for your grandparents, and you can even take advantage of a team of designers if you want help deciding what frame to get. If you want to give them total control, you can give them a gift card and help with the process if needed.Fresh coffee beans from all over the world delivered to their doorAtlas Coffee ClubCoffee Subscription, available at Atlas Coffee Club, from $60Atlas Coffee sends fresh beans from across the globe to their door. They'll learn about their coffee's flavor profile, tasting notes, suggested brewing methods, historic origins — plus, each comes in a bag with festive packaging. If they've been coffee buffs for a while — or just love having a morning cup — they'll appreciate both the thought and opportunity to learn something new. A touching book to read with young grandkidsAmazon"How to Babysit a Grandma and a Grandpa" by Jean Reagan Boxed Set, available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, from $10.49This New York Times-bestselling kids' picture book is written in a how-to style, with the narrator giving important tips for "babysitting" a grandpa and grandma. It's the perfect gift for new grandparents and little grandkids excited to spend time together. A salt block that'll make grilled foods taste even betterCrated and BarrelHimalayan Salt Block, available at Crate and Barrel, $34.95A salt block is a great multi-purpose kitchen tool. It's a stable crystal structure, which means it can hold a temperature very well. It can be chilled to use as a serving platter for sushi, or heated over a grill or stovetop to cook veggies infused with flavor. Himalayan salt is more nuanced than table salt, and the amount of saltiness imparted varies with the type of food (moist foods absorb more salt, while fatty foods repel it). The best part: It's also long-lasting and naturally antibacterial.A good-looking, cleverly designed container for artisan cheesesFood52Capabunga Cheese Vault, available at Food52, Sur la table, and Amazon, from $34.95You can't go wrong with a cute, handy place for storing artisan cheese that looks far nicer than plastic wrap. Grab some tasty options to start them off with, too. A sentimental sculptureWillow TreeWith my Grandmother, available at Willow Tree, $46Show your grandparents how much you love them with a sentimental sculpture from Willow Tree. The handmade figures can be grouped together or stand-alone to represent those you care for most.The best socks they'll ever wearUnited by BlueThe Ultimate Bison Sock, available at United by Blue, $44United by Blue makes some of the most comfortable and warmest socks we've ever worn. They're made of merino wool, bison down, and nylon and have reinforced heel and toe areas. We're also big fans of Bombas socks. A media streaming device — and access to your NetflixAmazonRoku Express HD Streaming Media Player, available at Amazon, Roku, and Walmart, from $29.24Turn their TV into a smart TV with Roku. Set it up for them, show them the ropes, and log them into your Netflix and Hulu if they don't already have their own. Call them later to chat about recommendations or great new shows you're watching, so you can enjoy them together.A calendar full of cherished personal photosArtifact UprisingBrass Easel and Calendar, available at Artifact Uprising, from $53.10Photos of loved ones are an instant source of joy, and structuring our daily life around them with a calendar is a great way to fill each day with more gratitude and happiness. Artifact Uprising has one that comes on a wood clipboard ($31.50) and a wall calendar ($37.80) that you can customize. The calendar is updated on a rolling 12-month basis, so you don't have to wait until January to create one.A journal that prompts them to record their own personal history for a new family keepsakeTargetThe Story of My Life Journal, available at Target and Walmart, from $9.54Prompt them to sit down and write about their own life, and make a lasting family keepsake in the process. This journal provides prompts, so it's not as daunting as starting from the beginning. It also shows that you're interested in learning about what they have to say and their own experiences. A soothing bubble bath from a well-loved brandAmazonL'Occitane Relaxing & Foaming Lavender Bubble Bath, available at Amazon, L'Occitane, and Nordstrom, $39This cult-favorite lavender-scented bubble bath from L'Occitane is a great way to relax, and it takes a while to get through. A luxe holiday candle that comes in a hand-blown glass container they can reuseBloomingdale'sLAFCO Feu de Bois Ski House Candle, available at Bloomingdales, $70LAFCO candles are over $60 for a reason; they smell incredible, are made simply from soy with a cotton wick, and the container is hand-blown glass that can be washed and used as a centerpiece for everything from candy to plants. This one has a 90-hour burn time.Long-distance twin lamps that light up when one of you touches itUncommon GoodsLong Distance Touch Lamp, available at Uncommon Goods, from $99These sentimental long-distance lamps are perfect for grandkids that live far away from their grandparents. Keep one in your home and one at your grandparents' home, and whenever you touch it, their lamp will light up too. It's a simple and instantaneous way to say "I love you!" from across the country.A new cookbook from a beloved Italian restaurant in BrooklynAmazonThe Frankie Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual, available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, from $27.49Frankies Spuntino is a tin-ceilinged, brick-walled restaurant in Brooklyn that draws crowds from every walk of life for food that is deeply satisfying. Here, the entire Frankie's menu — and its reimagined Italian American comfort food — is adapted for the home cook. If either of your grandparents loves cooking, they'll probably love this thoughtful gesture.If you want to gift something that honors your own family recipes, check out this recipe book you or they can write in from Uncommon Goods. A monthly sampling of some of the tastiest products from around the countryMouth/InstagramBest of Mouth Subscription, available at Mouth, from $54/monthFoodies will love the chance to test small-batch, locally made products from around the country. Mouth sources and curates subscription boxes of their favorites, which they'll receive each month.A Nespresso that makes everything from a latte to a cappuccino just the way they like itNespressoNespresso Lattissima One, available at Crate & Barrel, Amazon, and Nespresso, from $318.99This is a pricey gift, but one that makes pretty amazing coffee without much more involvement than dropping a pod into the machine. They can make everything from delicious cappuccinos to lattes right at home, which is probably why it was listed as one of Oprah's Favorite Things in 2018.Tea from around the worldUncommon GoodsTea From Around the World Set, available at Uncommon Goods, $55If your grandparents prefer tea over coffee, this set will let them sample some of the best flavors from across the globe.A Jo Malone diffuser that smells amazing and looks good in a homeNordstromJo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Scent Diffuser, available at Nordstrom and Amazon, $105A diffuser is like the modern take on potpourri, and Jo Malone makes some incredibly good scents. They'll recognize the brand, like the smell, and the clean, minimalist glass container means they won't only bring this out when they know you're coming over.Warm, fluffy slippers they'll love wearingNordstromUGG Dakota Water Resistant Slipper, available at Nordstrom and UGG, $100Make sure grandma's feet are kept cozy year-round in these plush UGG slippers with rubber soles for indoor or outdoor use. A photo book or photo calendar you curated for them of their favorite people and placesArtifact UprisingEveryday Photo Book, available at Artifact Uprising, from $55.80Grandparents are often the gatekeepers to the most involved, best-kept baby books. School pictures, spelling tests, and holidays spent with them are all preserved with the genuine, all-encompassing interest reserved only for grandparents. Rarely, however, do we get to do the same for them. Set aside some time and curate a photo book for them from Artifact Uprising with pictures of their favorite places, people, and memories.Or, if you think they'll use it more, a calendar of you, them, your parents, and their grandkids — primed for a happy exhibition the next time their friends come over.A gift subscription to a cool wine service they're not likely to already useVineboxShop all Vinebox collections here, from $45Vinebox gifts let the recipient try nine of the best wines of the moment every quarter. Their delivery will include nine vials portioned to be full glasses, with each selected based on their personal tastes and preferences. They'll also get credit for either $15 or $30 to use on full bottles. A set of reusable beeswax wraps for your eco-conscious grandparentFood52Bee's Wrap Food Wraps, available at Amazon, Target, and Food52, from $17.99Save your grandparent money and trips to the store and gift them an eco-friendly alternative to plastic storage bags: Bee's Wrap's reusable food wraps. These beeswax wraps come in three different sizes and are great for storing leftovers or packing a lunch.A vintage-style record playerAmazonVictrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player, available at Amazon and Walmart, $112Your grandparents probably have a massive collection of records but an outdated record player. With the Kingston 7-in-1, they'll get the vintage feel of old-school record players with additional modern features like Bluetooth, aux, and a CD and cassette player.A digital picture frame if they have too many photos to pick fromAuraCarver Digital Picture Frame, available at Aura, $179Set up a digital picture frame at Grandma and Grandpa's house and they'll be able to view all of their favorite images from one device.An e-reader with a no-glare screenThe Kindle Paperwhite's new, warmer backlight.AmazonKindle Paperwhite, available at Amazon and Best Buy, $139.99If your grandparents love to read, the first device you should gift is probably the go-anywhere, read-anything Paperwhite. Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof and has a no-glare screen even in direct sunlight — great for long days spent on the porch or at the beach. A comfortable weighted blanket for better restGravity BlanketsGravity Blankets, available at Gravity and Amazon, from $79.99Give your grandparents better rest for the holidays with a cult-favorite weighted blanket with a removable cover. By mimicking DPTS (deep pressure touch stimulation), weighted blankets help us calm down, fall asleep faster, stay asleep better and for longer, and feel more rested when we wake up.A high-end shaver for GrandpaBraunBraun Series 9 Pro, available at Braun, Target, and Amazon, from $321As Braun's most advanced shaver ever, the Series 9 Pro will pro will give Grandpa the best shave he's ever had.A custom painting of their furry best friendUncommon GoodsCustom Painterly Pet Portraits, available at Uncommon Goods, from $250Make sure this is their decor style before committing to it, but a portrait of their pet is probably one of the sweetest and most thoughtful gestures. It's unique, handmade, and pays homage to the little fur-mop that loves lounging in an adjacent sun patch on the couch every day.A movie night with you, planned out by youAmazonGift Card, available at Fandango, from $15Take them to a movie — spare no expense on movie popcorn, an unnecessarily huge soft drink, and a candy that is usually gone by the close of previews. Grab a gift card and put it in a nice card, and set a date for the next blockbuster. They'll probably love just spending time with you, and knowing you went to the trouble to orchestrate this.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Instagram is a photo-sharing app that lets you connect with brands, celebrities, friends, family, and more. Here's how to use all of its features. Instagram is a free social media platform for sharing photos and videos with your followers. It's become an especially popular way to connect with brands, celebrities, and friends. Instagram has an array of features, from short-form videos to live streaming and private messaging. One could argue that Instagram is a social media network like no other. The popular user base platform is built almost entirely around sharing images and videos. This visual twist is why Instagram is the cultural powerhouse it is today — "Instagramming" is officially a verb now.With over a billion registered accounts, from small businesses to large institutions, news organizations to cultural hubs, celebrities, photographers, musicians, and not to mention the cottage industry of influencers — it's hard to remember a time when Instagram didn't exist.So, if you've found yourself out of the Instagram loop, then read on. We'll give you a crash course on how the app works, how to get started, and eventually, how to get 'gramming like a pro. How to sign up for InstagramTo help you get started, let's walk through some of the basics: How to download InstagramFirst things first: You'll need to download Instagram to use the app. It's available for free on iOS, Android, and Windows devices. While there isn't an app fully optimized for iPads, you can still enjoy the full IG experience on your iPad by changing your App Store settings to find the app.How to create an Instagram accountUpon opening the app for the first time, you'll be prompted to create a new account, or log in with your Facebook account. If you choose to make a new account, the process is straightforward: you'll be asked for your phone number or email address, full name, desired username, and password.Once you create an account, it's worth noting that you can create — and switch between — multiple Instagram accounts without logging out, a very useful feature if you wish to run separate accounts for personal and professional use.Even though Instagram is designed primarily for smartphones, the desktop experience — once very limited — has steadily improved over the years. Today, you can get on Instagram from your computer and use a web browser to edit your profile, view your feed, like and comment on posts, and send and receive direct messages. You can even post photos and videos from the desktop app, thanks to a relatively recent update.Setting up your profileAfter you create your Instagram account, you're going to want to set up your profile. Your profile page is a hub for all your photos and videos where you can keep track of who you're following and who's following you. It's also where you can access your settings. From your profile page, you can edit your profile, access settings, or scroll down to see your posts.Devon DelfinoProfile pages are often the first thing people visit, so it's best to keep your username, profile picture, and bio up to date. Your profile picture is the icon that appears with your username all over the platform, while your bio is a space to offer a brief description of yourself or your brand. You can also add a link to your website, if applicable. By clicking Edit Profile, you can make changes to your profile page at any time:How to change your Instagram profile pictureHow to change your Instagram bioHow to change your Instagram usernameIf you're running an Instagram account for your business, you can also add your location.Customizing notificationsKeeping up with your friends and followers on Instagram means making sure you're getting the right notifications, at the right time. The platform gives you the power to choose what push notifications it sends to your device.For example, perhaps you want to receive a notification when you get a new follower, or when someone comments on your post. Or maybe you're feeling inundated with pings and you would like to turn your notifications off completely. You can adjust your notifications by going into your profile, tapping the three lines in the top-right corner of the screen and selecting the three lines icon in the same location , and then tap Settings followed by Notifications.You can adjust your notifications from this screen.Devon DelfinoNow that you have the app downloaded, and your profile set up, it's time to start sharing.How to use InstagramAt its core, Instagram is a social media platform, and a highly visual one at that. Every time you open the app, you'll be met with a main feed of recent posts from the accounts you follow. At the bottom is a menu bar, which is accessible anywhere you are in the app.Here's what each button does, from left to right:Home: Your main feed where you can scroll through photos and videos posted by your friends.Search and explore: The magnifying glass icon takes you to the Explore page, where you can search and browse content from accounts you don't follow but may be interested in.Reels: This tab includes short videos (up to 90 seconds long) from users you may or may not be following. You can scroll to the next video by swiping your finger from the bottom of the screen to the top.Shop: Here, you'll find a collection of Instagram posts that includes items you can buy through the app.Profile: This icon navigates to your profile page that shows your bio and posts. It's also where you can access your settings. Use these buttons to navigate between your feed, search and Explore, Reels, Shop, and your profile.Devon DelfinoLike other social media networks, Instagram is what you make it. For most people, checking Instagram is equal parts voyeurism and self-expression. For the entrepreneurial set, like business owners, brands, and influencers, Instagram is an indispensable marketing tool with unmatched reach.But going back to basics, Instagram works off a simple premise: You follow accounts that interest you. In turn, people follow you. People can "like" and comment on your posts, and you can do the same to their posts. Whether you maintain a low profile or amass a following, how active you are is entirely up to you.Uploading, editing, and posting photosTo share a photo or video on Instagram, tap the large plus button (located toward the top-right corner of the screen). From there, you can select photos or videos from your phone's camera roll to post. Quick tip: Instagram allows you to to select up to 10 photos and videos to post at once — these kinds of posts are called carousels.For every post, you can choose to apply a filter, which, depending on who you ask, is either essential to the Instagram experience or unnecessary, given that many other photo editing apps come with their own filters. Filters make it easy to edit shots with different visual pre-set overlays. For example, some filters, like Mayfair, give everything a pink hue; others, like Willow, turn everything black-and-white.You can adjust how intense (or not) the filter is as well using a slider when you select the filter and then tap it one more time.You can select from in-app filters to alter your photos.Devon DelfinoOnce your post is to your liking and ready to go, there are a few more options you can do before you hit the share button:Add a caption: Captions are always a good idea. You can use words, emojis, or hashtags. Just like in comments, you can also mention friends by typing @ in front of their username. Keep in mind you can edit captions at any time — or delete posts. Tag people: Instagram allows you to "tag" someone in your photos. When you tag someone, they'll get a notification in their activity feed. (This is separate from mentioning them in your caption.)Add location: Location tags lets others know where your photo was taken. Clicking on a location tag brings you to its corresponding location feed, where you can peruse other public posts.Also post to other social accounts: Instagram also gives you the ability to publish a post to other social accounts at the same time. By linking accounts, you can cross-post to Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. There are a lot of options in Instagram's posting screen.Devon DelfinoExploring and finding people to followThe best way to find people to follow is by tapping the magnifying glass icon at the bottom of the app. This will open the Explore page, where you'll find a feed of suggested posts based on what Instagram thinks you're interested in.The Explore page can also be organized by topic — another great way for discovering content. You can do this by selecting the suggested topics toward the top of the screen. Additionally, the page is where you can search for users by name, through the search bar at the top of the screen.You can scroll down for more posts, or use the search function at the top to find specific accounts or posts.Devon DelfinoWhen it comes to interacting with others, Instagram works less like Facebook and more like Twitter. In most cases, you don't have to send a friend request or wait for the other person to accept it.When you follow other people, Instagram will make sure you see their posts in your feed. For the most part, people can see who you're following and who's following you, at all times.However, if you have a private account your followers are restricted and unable to view who currently follows you. Sending and receiving direct messagesInstagram has a direct messaging system that lets you chat privately with anyone who follows you. If you send a message to someone who doesn't follow you, that message will be sorted into its own "message requests" folder. To start the conversation, the person on the receiving end must accept the message.Direct messages are also available in the app and on the desktop website.To access your message menu, tap the paper airplane icon in your home feed. From there, you'll be shown all the people you've had conversations with in the past. You can also tap the pen and paper icon in the top right-hand corner to start a new conversation, or the camera icon to start a video chat.Your message history will appear on this screen.Devon DelfinoOnce you're in a conversation, you can send all sorts of messages. These include basic text messages, animated GIFs, and more. You can also share Instagram posts. And you can "like" messages, or delete messages if you no longer wish to see them.The only users that you'll have to ask to follow are those who have made their account private. When you tap Follow on a private profile, you'll have to wait for that user to accept you before you can officially follow them and send them a message.You can also connect your phone contacts to Instagram, which can be another great way to find friends on the app.Instagram featuresAs you might expect, Instagram rolls out new features regularly. From new content to an ever-expanding set of creative tools, Instagram offers plenty of opportunities for self-expression and creativity.Here are the latest and greatest Instagram features worth knowing:Instagram StoriesMany people use Instagram exclusively for creating and viewing Stories, which are customizable posts that only last 24 hours. These posts, which could be a mix of photos and short-form videos, are presented in a slideshow format and accessible through the top of the home feed. And when we say customizable, we mean customizable. Unlike regular posts, which include only simple filters, Stories boast all kinds of creative elements, including:Animated stickers and cartoonsPolls and quizzesDynamic song lyricsLinks to donation funds and charitiesThere are several ways to add a Story, but the easiest is to tap your profile icon at the top-left hand corner of your home feed. From there, you can either take a photo or video live, or choose one from your phone's gallery. You'll then have the opportunity to draw, add text or any of those other creative elements we mentioned above. While Stories are designed to disappear after one day, they're automatically saved to your private Archive (which we'll explain in just a bit) after expiring. You can also publish Stories permanently on your profile for visitors to watch at any time.Instagram LiveInstagram Live is a feature that lets you livestream, or broadcast live video, from your device to anyone who wants to watch. Viewers can send you messages and hearts while you stream, making this a great way to talk to all your followers at once, or broadcast an event.To go live on Instagram, you'll need to open Instagram and, from your feed, swipe right and select Live from the options at the bottom of the screen. From there you can do things like add a title, select your audience, and schedule the live video, if desired. You can go live for up to four hours at a time — after that, the livestream will end and you'll need to start again.While you're streaming, viewer comments are visible by default, but can be disabled with just a few taps. Whenever anyone you follow starts starts a livestream, you'll get a notification. If you're following a lot of people, this might mean a constant flood of notifications that you don't need. Luckily, turning off Instagram Live notifications only takes a moment.ReelsBuilt as a rival to TikTok, Reels is Instagram's dedicated video platform, letting users upload videos up to 90 seconds long in length. Once you record a video, you can edit it and add music, text, and special effects. Other users can like or comment on your Reels videos, so they can be a fun way to attract new followers.To watch someones else's Reels, you need to tap the icon, located in the center of the bottom menu on the app. (It looks like a mashup of a play button and a clapperboard.) Here, you can watch videos that others have uploaded, create Reels of your own.Instagram ShoppingGiven Instagram's popularity, it's no surprise that brands are doing everything they can to turn Instagram users into customers. According to Instagram, nearly half of people shop on Instagram weekly.Instagram tips and tricksInstagram is simple to use, but can take a while to master. Here are some of our favorite tricks that aren't so obvious to beginners.Schedule posts in advanceInstagram has become a massive part of nearly every company's online presence, and if there's one thing that social media brand managers love, it's scheduling a post in advance.Instagram does have a native post scheduler — but that's reserved for those with professional accounts. Still, there are dozens of third-party programs, like Buffer, that can handle the scheduling for you.Save Instagram videos to your phoneIf you've found an amazing video on Instagram that you just need to save, you're in luck — there are several ways to save Instagram videos.If you're trying to save one of your own videos, it'll just take a few taps to save the video directly to your camera roll. If you're trying to save someone else's video, however, you'll need to record your screen or use a third-party app.Post different photo formatsWhen Instagram first launched in 2010, the edits were limited. You could only post square photos — anything else either wasn't allowed, or would be cut off.Nowadays, the rules are a bit more lax. But if you want to post two common photo types — panorama shots and Live Photos — you may have to make some edits beforehand.For a panorama photo, you can either zoom out so it fits in a single photo, otherwise you'll need to split up your shots beforehand using a third-party app. If you have an iPhone and want to post your live photos, you'll need to convert them into videos first.Archive posts instead of deleting themIf you're unsure about deleting your post, Instagram offers an archive feature instead. This is great if you only want to hide a post temporarily.To archive a post, open it, tap the three dots in the top-right, and then select Archive. The post will be hidden immediately. Once you've archived a post, you can navigate to your private Archive with just a few taps.Note: Every Story you post will be saved to your Archive automatically once they expire.Privacy and securityIt's also important to manage your privacy and security settings to your liking. Manage who can see your postsLike Facebook, Instagram allows you control who can see your posts. The easiest way to control your online presence is to set your account as "Private."When you set your account as Private, the only people who will be able to see your posts and other activity are your followers. And before people can follow you, you'll have to approve them. Another way you can do this is by setting up a Close Friends list. The Close Friends feature allows you to create Instagram Stories that can only be viewed by specific people. If you want to use Stories to send quick updates to your friends, this is the way to go.Finally, if you run a Business account and you don't want users under a certain age following, you can set an age limit on your account — the minimum age you can set depends on where you live.Change your personal account informationWe've already mentioned that you can change your username whenever you like. But if you're unhappy with how you set up your account, you can edit other pieces of information too.With just a few taps, you can change the email connected to your account. If you want to make sure your account is secure, you can change your Instagram password at any time.Download and back up your data Like most social networks, Instagram has an obscure menu that lets you download every bit of content you've ever posted on the app. This includes your photos, videos, comments, messages, profile information, and more.The only content you can't download are Stories you've posted and let expire without saving.To download your Instagram data, head to the Settings menu in your app and then select Your activity followed by Download Data. Once there, fill out the form, and your data will be emailed to you within a few days.If you don't want to download all your data, you can also simply view it in the app.Protect yourself and others from harassmentInstagram has a long set of rules to ensure that all users have a safe and fun time in the app. But like all sites, it's not hard to find people who break those rules. Other users can comment on pictures and videos that you post to a public profile - but if you want to post something without leaving it open to comments, you can disable the comments on specific posts.If you ever find a user harassing you or someone else, you can report them to Instagram. There's no guarantee that Instagram will act on the report, but alerting them to it is better than doing nothing.The bottom lineWhether you're an aspiring influencer, photography lover, or an everyday social media user, Instagram is a great place to be. It's easy to get started, so if this guide has piqued your interest, give it a try.If for whatever reason you later decide it's not for you, you can delete your Instagram account at any time. No commitment needed.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

There are a variety of free photo editing apps you can install on your iPhone or Android for a single effect or general purpose. d3sign/Getty Images There are a variety of free photo editing apps you can install on your iPhone or Android. Apps like Color Splash and Visage Lab are good for single effects, while Photoshop Express and Pixlr are general purpose apps. Here are the seven best free photo editing apps for iPhone and Android. We take more pictures today than ever thanks to the camera app built into every iPhone and Android phone. There's no longer a need to lug around a separate camera, so we document our lives on our phones. And that means there's a huge need to clean up many of those photos. You can use the rudimentary photo editing tools that come with your phone, but you can do much better with a third-party photo editor. Whether you are posting a photo to Instagram, uploading a picture to a digital photo frame or just Airdropping images to a friend, you can do wonders with the right photo editor. Here are seven of the best free photo editing apps for iPhone and Android that can help you up your photo game.  PixlrPixlr offers a solid assortment of photo editing tools for free, including crop, rotate, color and brightness adjustments, along with special effects like selective blur and spot color. There are also a variety of page templates and collages where you can drop and arrange photos. All the features are available for free, but you can pay to remove the in-app ads. It's available for both iPhone and Android.  Pixlr’s main toolbox includes all the major options you’d expect to find in a photo editor.Dave JohnsonPhotoDirectorPhotoDirector is a full-featured photo editor for iPhone and Android, packed with tools like crop and rotate, perspective adjustment, and exposure control — along with special effects like object removal, sky replacement, light rays, and more. The interface is a little crowded and can be overwhelming for new users, though, and the app tries hard to upsell you to the premium version. Some of the more advanced features, for example, can only be applied once per day while using the free version. Color SplashSome photo editing apps are one-trick ponies, but they do that one thing so well they're worth keeping. Color Splash, available for both iPhone and Android, converts your photo to black and white and then lets you add spot color back by using your finger. It's easy to do and the effect looks great. Unfortunately, each photo gets a relatively small watermark unless you upgrade to the paid version. Color Splash does just one thing: It converts your image to black and white and lets you selectively restore spot color wherever you like.Dave JohnsonVisage Lab If the main reason you want to edit photos is to retouch faces, why not get an app that focuses exclusively on that? Visage Lab is narrowly focused on letting you do touch-up work, with tools to tweak lighting, remove wrinkles, blur or swap out backgrounds, and even do full makeovers with hair color changes. The app is free for both iPhone and Android, but there are in-app ads and many effects are restricted to the premium paid version.   Adobe Photoshop ExpressPhotoshop Express is the more consumer-friendly iteration of the world's most popular photo editing software, and Express for iPhone and Android has nearly every feature imaginable — this might be the only app you need. It has a dozen filters for basic photo effects, one-touch exposure and brightness controls, a healing brush to remove blemishes, crop and rotate, text overlays, and more. You can also create collages from multiple photos. Like the desktop version, Photoshop Express on your phone offers a simplified way to enhance your photos.Dave JohnsonSnapseedThis is the choice for casual photographers who are looking for a photo editor that keeps things uncomplicated. The interface is perhaps the easiest among all photo editing apps — just select the tool and then choose the intensity or otherwise customize your selection from a few choices. There are no sliders, dials or other widgets to slow you down. And there's no shortage of features; tools range from white balance to perspective control to HDR enhancement to lens blur. Best of all, because this is a Google product, you're not harassed with in-app ads or upgrade notices. Snapseed is available for iPhone and Android. Snapseed has an incredibly simple interface with a generous set of free editing tools.Dave JohnsonAdobe LightroomOne criticism you can level at Adobe is that there are simply too many photo editing apps to choose from, and it's not always clear why you should choose one Adobe app over another. That said, Adobe Lightroom is a smart choice if you are a dedicated photographer and interested in wringing as much editing potential as possible from your iPhone or Android device. Even on your phone, Lightroom has a deep bench of features, including the ability to mask your photo and apply effects selectively to just part of the image. You have the usual array of exposure controls, texture and clarity settings, a healing brush, lens adjustments, and more. If you can do it in Lightroom on the desktop, you can probably find the feature here on your phone. Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Celebrate his first Father's Day as a new dad with these thoughtful gifts, from a gourmet meat box to a time-saving robot vacuum. Prices are accurate at the time of publication.When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.Crowd Cow; AmazonNo one really knows how simultaneously exhausting, exciting, and rewarding being a new dad is until you become one. If you know a new father, there are many ways you can be there for him, from lending a supportive ear to giving him a first Father's Day present that celebrates or helps with his new day-to-day life as a dad.These practical and thoughtful gifts will let him know you're thinking of him — and that you forgive him when he's too busy changing diapers to pick up your call. The 53 best first Father's Day gifts for new dads in 2022:Low-maintenance plants to brighten his roomBloomscapeBloomscape Tough Stuff Plant Collection, $69Add beautiful greenery to his space without giving him a ton of extra work. This trio of plants is incredibly forgiving and easy to take care of. The plants don't require regular watering and adapt to many different light environments. Refreshing, ready-to-drink cocktailsStraightawayStraightaway Cocktail Tool Box, $84.95No time to shake up a cocktail and deal with the cleanup? No problem. Straightaway makes delectable craft cocktails like Negronis and Margaritas that are ready to pour and drink right out of the bottle. A weighted blanket to help ease those new dad jittersAmazonBlanQuil Chill Cooling 15-pound Weighted Blanket, $169Our favorite cooling weighted blanket not only applies soothing, anxiety-relieving pressure as Dad sleeps, but also actively wicks away moisture and helps maintain his body temperature through the night. That means deeper nights of sleep and more energy in the morning to tackle all the day's tasks. A simple yet thoughtful cardMintedFresh Dad Greeting Card, $6.98Let him know you're cheering him on in his new journey with a lovely card. You can personalize the interior message on Minted. A fitness app with extrasClassPass appInsider / Hannah ToweyClassPass gift card, available at ClassPass, from $50If the new dad in your life loves working out but has too busy a schedule to justify a gym membership, a ClassPass gift card will let him attend nearby classes at his own pace. As a bonus, ClassPass also covers non-fitness activities like meditation sessions and spa appointments.A meat or seafood boxCrowd Cow/InstagramCrowd Cow Gift Box, available at Crowd Cow, from $36.07Give a new dad something delicious to cook. Crowd Cow's meats and seafood are sourced from independent producers that practice sustainable farming and ethical treatment of animals.An efficient robot vacuum to manage household messesAmazoniRobot Roomba i3+ Robot Vacuum, $499Cleaning the house is doubly exhausting with a baby in tow. The best robot vacuum we've tested is the powerful, low-maintenance solution to his cleaning woes. It picks up all kinds of debris and crumbs from both carpet and hardwood, plus it automatically empties its own dustbin. It only takes 10 minutes to set up and program a cleaning schedule, then he can allow the vacuum on its merry way. A pair of chinosBonobosBonobos Chinos, available Bonobos, from $99Unfortunately, a new dad can't wear lounge pants all the time. But that doesn't mean they've got to sacrifice comfort. Bonobos chinos come in multiple fits and sizes, and the signature curved waistband offers an unobtrusive fit that makes them great for the office, a trip to the store, or a playdate in the park. Non-alcoholic wineJukes CordialitiesJukes 6 Wine, available at Jukes Cordialities, $48.50As tough as being a new dad can be, waking up at 2 a.m. for the bottle-feeding after a couple glasses of wine at dinner can be even harder. Thankfully, Jukes offers delicious wine without the brain fog. Available in white, red, or rose, each Jukes bottle makes delicious non-alcoholic wine when mixed with chilled water. Candles to freshen up the houseElder & Co.Elder & Co. Parks and Trails Sample Set, available at Elder & Co., $36From stinky diapers to special lotions and shampoos, new fatherhood can be an olfactory assault. Thankfully, this eight-candle sampler from Elder & Co. includes scents like Appalachian Trail, Joshua Tree, and Grand Canyon to bring some much-needed calm and control over the not-so-pleasant new baby smells.  A smart speaker for baby's roomAmazonEcho Dot, available at Amazon, $27.99A smart speaker is a nice addition to the home. It can play lullabies at bedtime, or dad can use it to listen to music or get any quick, hands-free information he needs. A rugged phone case that protects against both bumps and germsOtterboxOtterbox Commuter Series Antimicrobial iPhone 13 Case, $39.95It's always a good idea to have a protective case on your phone, but even more so when you're a busy new father. Otterbox's cases are lightweight yet very rugged, protecting his phone from all kinds of drops and bumps. This one has an additional silver-based additive that protects against bacteria.A diaper backpackAmazonBag Nation Backpack Diaper Bag, available at Amazon, $84.95Resembling a commuter bag, this 14-pocket backpack is durable and holds all the essentials, from diapers to bottles and everything in between. There's even a foldout changing pad.A quick snackChompsChomps Trial Pack, available at Chomps, $14.99A relaxed sit-down meal is all but a distant memory for many new dads, so snacking between feedings, bottle cleanings, diaper changes, and errands is key. Chomps makes a variety of meat sticks from beef, turkey, and venison, all of which are sustainably farmed and grass fed. Each stick includes 9 grams of protein, zero sugars, and no nitrates — healthy, quick, and easy.A durable water bottleHydro Flask/Alyssa Powell/InsiderHydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle, available at Hydro Flask, $32.95When life gets as hectic as it does for new fathers, it's easy to forget to drink water. This durable insulated metal bottle keeps water cold and within arm's reach. It's also one of our editors' favorite things and was included in our recent list of the All-Time Best products we tested.A travel trivia gamePaper SourceGentleman's Hardware Road Trip Trivia, available at Paper Source, $19.95Just because kids enter the picture doesn't mean traveling stops. In fact, trips to grandma and grandpa's house will have a new dad on the road more than before, so give them a gift that they can use. This road-trip trivia pack from Gentlemen's Hardware includes 100 cards and convenient travel tin. A portable speakerAmazonJBL Clip 3 Portable Speaker, available at Amazon, $39.95The JBL Clip 3 is the ultimate Bluetooth speaker for new dads. It comes in a variety of colors; has an integrated carabiner to attach to a stroller, car seat, or backpack; and, most importantly, is waterproof. Paired with a smartphone, dad can sit back and relax while blasting "Baby Shark" for the 100th time.A smart coffee warmerBest BuyEmber Mug², available at Target, Best Buy, and Bloomingdale's, from $129.95Every new parent knows the taste of lukewarm coffee — it's inevitable. Dad deserves (needs!) to have delicious, warm coffee. The Ember Mug² will keep their beverage warm for more than an hour, pairs with an app to ensure the right temperature, and recharges on a coaster.A funny book about fatherhoodBarnes & NobleMan vs. Baby: The Chaos and Comedy of Real-Life Parenting, available at Amazon, $13.89Nothing will fully prepare him for the chaos and confusion of being a new dad. However, Matt Coyne's sleep-deprived take on parenting provides hilarious and honest reassurance that he's doing alright, no matter how stressful it seems.Polarized sunglassesREIGift the Sunski Puerto polarized sunglasses, available Sunski, $48Some dads worry that their style will cease when they welcome a child into the world. A new pair of shades is a quick way to shake up the routine. These sunglasses are made of lightweight recycled material and feature polarized lenses that eliminate glare. Bonus, if the glasses break from normal use, Sunski will replace or fix them.Hot honey to spice up every mealAmazonBushwick Kitchen Bees Knees Spicy Honey, available at Amazon, $14.24Dad will be taking breakfast to the next level in no time at all with Bushwick Kitchen's sauces. Choose from sweet and spicy sauces like wildflower honey mixed with habanero peppers or mild, sweet options like Meyer lemon honey. A basketball jersey for babyNBA StoreNBA Baby Jersey, available at NBA Store, from $39.99It's going to be a while before baby gets into it, but it's still a lot of fun for a new dad to watch the game with baby decked out in their favorite jersey.A tea subscriptionAtlas Tea ClubAtlas Tea Club 3-Month Subscription, available at Atlas Club, $55Coffee can be a new parent's greatest weapon against restless nights and early mornings, but sometimes it can be too much. Gift the new dad in your life a monthly tea subscription from Atlas. The subscription includes two new single-origin teas from around the world delivered every month. A portable white noise machineAmazonMarpac Portable White Noise Machine, available at Amazon, $23.99The compact Marpac has impressive sound, a variety of white noise options, and a small nightlight. Dad can use the included clip to connect it to a stroller, car seat, or carrier for walks and car rides.A convenient sling bagMomentMoment Fanny Sling, available at B&H Photo, from $59.99Moment is known for making smartphone-oriented products, but within the past few years, the brand has moved into products for more mobile lifestyles, and if anyone is living that, it's a new dad. This waterproof, easy-to-clean sling can hold a wallet, keys, phone, camera, snack bar, and other necessities.  It's perfect for running errands or a day traipsing around a theme park. Comfortable slide sandalsHunter BootGift the Hunter Original Lightweight Moulded Slides, available at Hunter Boot, $45.00Hunter's EVA slides fit the bill for easy, lightweight, and durable footwear. The perforated uppers and contoured footbed keep dad's feet cool and comfortable, and you can't beat the ease of simply sliding them on for errands or just to wear around the house.A compact flashlightCoastGift the HX-4 LED Flashlight, available at Amazon, from $13.12Fumbling for diapers in the middle of the night or searching for that tiny clip from baby's teething toy that fell between the seats in the car are good reasons for dad to have a great flashlight. This one is small, has a clip and a magnet to attach it nearly anywhere, features a powerful LED in white and red light, and can be rotated 180 degrees to make sure it's exactly where dad needs it.A new set of sheets for parents and babyBrooklinenGift the Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set, from $139Brooklittles Crib Sheet Set, available at Brooklinen, from $32Sleep, when it does happen for both dad and baby, is so much better on a set of soft sheets that make them feel like they're sleeping on a cloud. Brooklinen sheets are great for delicate skin and hot sleepers, and they come in a variety of colors and prints. They're also one of the best products we've ever tested.A wireless charging stationNomadNomad Base Station, available Nomad, $99.95If the secret to success as a new dad is organization, Nomad's wireless charger fits the bill. It can power two devices simultaneously while also allowing for a USB-C and USB-A cord to be plugged in for a total of four devices at once. Mom and dad's phones, AirPods, and the portable white noise machine will all be ready to go at a moment's notice.A high-quality shaving kitHarry'sHarry's Truman Shave Set, available at Harry's, $15This essential shave set includes a razor with a comfortable handle and textured rubber grip, three German-engineered blade cartridges, foaming shave gel for a rich lather, and a travel cover to protect the blades.A travel mug for coffee timeAmazonGift the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, from $19.99New dads rarely have both hands free, so eliminating the need to twist, pop, flip, or open their coffee mug makes life so much easier. Dad can simply add their coffee, screw on the top, and pull the trigger to open up the world of caffeine goodness.One tool for almost every jobREILeatherman Wingman Multi-Tool, available at REI, $69.95The Leatherman Wingman is loaded with 14 tools, including a knife, screwdrivers, bottle openers, and even a 1-inch ruler, so dad can fix just about anything and pop open a cold one when they're done.Super soft lounge pantsTommy JohnTommy John Second Skin Lounge Pants, available at Dillard's, $68New dads will love a pair of comfortable house pants that won't embarrass them when the in-laws show up unannounced. These soft, light pants from Tommy John are perfect and hold up nicely in the wash.Instant pour-over coffeeKahawa 1893Kahawa 1893 Coffee Lovers Gift Box, available at Kahawa 1893, $49Restless nights and uncertain mornings may have dad missing their morning pour-over coffee ritual. They can still have that rich flavor thanks to third-generation Kenyan coffee farmer Margaret Kemunto Nyamumbo. This single-serve is packaged like a teabag, ready in five minutes, and 100% compostable. Stroller phone mountAmazonSkip Hop Stroll and Connect Universal Phone Holder, available at Buy Buy Baby, $15.99Made with tough plastic and rubber grips, the Stroll and Connect mounts to a stroller or shopping cart. It stays put and won't fall off on bumpy terrain or in crowded aisles.Comfortable slip-on shoesVasqueVasque Satoru Moc, available at Backcountry, $69.96As any parent will tell you, getting your shoes on can be downright tough when you're holding the baby, diaper bag, and much, much more. Footwear brand Vasque has new dads covered. With a sock-like upper and memory foam footbed, dad will probably wear them all day, and the easy on and off makes them infinitely versatile.A play kit of curated toysLoveveryPlay Kit Subscription, available at Lovevery, from $40/monthMake those long hours playing on the floor count with a subscription to Lovevery curated age-appropriate toy kits. Delivered every two months, each kit comes with a guide that explains how the included toys support a child's development. A device to keep track of everythingAmazonTile Essentials 4-Pack, available at Amazon, $69.99This grab bag of Tile options lets new parents rely on technology instead of their overtaxed brains. New dads can attach Tiles to their keys, diaper bag, and wallet to ensure those items never stay lost for too long. And if dad has their keys but not their phone, they can double-tap the Tile to make it ring. A comfortable pillowCoop Home GoodsCoop Home Goods Original Pillow, available at Amazon, $71.99A comfy pillow might be the most important ingredient for a restful night. The Coop pillow has adjustable fill that can be added or removed to their liking, and a 100-night trial means dad isn't stuck with it if they don't like it.A quick hangBackcountryMetolius Project Board, available at Backcountry, $64.95With a variety of holds, from jugs to crimps to pockets, the Metolius Project Board is great for releasing tension with a quick upper body workout. Dad can use it just about anywhere indoors or outside, and the fine texture is easy on the skin.A delicious baby blanketUncommonGoodsTortilla Baby Blanket, available at Uncommon Goods, $50The flour tortilla print on this blanket is perfect for wrapping your baby up like a bundle of burrito joy. The blanket is made of breathable cotton/polyester blend fabric that will keep the baby comfortable and cool. Single-origin coffee beansColectivo CoffeeColectivo Coffee—Sumatra, available at Colectivo, from $15.95If dad is a coffee fanatic, they'll love a bag of single-origin beans. Grown in the volcanic soil in the rugged mountains of the Indonesian island Sumatra, this rich, complex blend has notes of molasses and pineapple. And for those mornings where there's no time to hassle with a French press, don't overlook instant coffees, which have caught up in quality to the whole bean variety.An adjustable baby carrierBradley Hasemeyer/InsiderErgobaby Omni 360 All-in-One Carrier, available at Amazon and Buy Buy Baby, from $149Whether dad is running errands or spending a day in the park, a good baby carrier makes everything so much easier. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is made from super soft cotton and easily adjusts to fit waists and shoulders of all sizes. It works in multiple positions, too — front or back, face-in or face-out. An Instant PotTargetInstant Pot Duo 7-in-1 (6-Ot.), available at Amazon, $88.13With the Instant Pot, cooking dinner for the whole family is a breeze. The multicooker is great for preparing soups, meats, yogurt, and even baby food. Easy cleanup means more time to spend with the little one, too.Comfortable underwearSaxxSaxx Quest Boxer Briefs, available at Quest, $32The right pair of underwear makes everything go so much smoother. The lightweight material is soft and breathable, and the patented BallPark Pouch keeps everything in place.An interactive photo journalArtifact Uprising"The Story of You" Baby Book, available at Artifact Uprising, $99A phone full of pictures and videos is great, but dad will want something to hold onto the most special moments. In this photo book, featuring a fabric cover and foil stamped title, they can write down their memories of each milestone.A lightweight button-up for a put-together lookThe Tie BarTie Bar Short-Sleeve Shirt, available at Tie Bar, from $27.50It's nice for dad to feel put-together sometimes. The 100% cotton button-ups from Tie Bar are perfect for a rare night out or a day at the office.A foam rollerTrigger PointTriggerPoint GRID foam roller, available at Amazon, $34.99Knots and tight muscles go hand in hand with parenting. Dad will appreciate having this foam roller to roll away the aches and pains of being a new parent.A cold brew makerAmazonTakeya Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $27.64Dad will love a cup of cold brew coffee when they need a pick-me-up after sneaking in an afternoon nap. The easy-to-use Takeya Deluxe makes up to 1 quart of concentrate. Comfortable running socksDarn ToughGift the Darn Tough Stride Micro Crew Ultra-Light Running Sock, available at Amazon and Darn Tough, from $18.95For many new dads, exercise is crucial to maintaining mental health, but they can't afford to get sore feet. These running socks are made from merino wool for moisture-wicking, provide arch support to reduce fatigue, and have seamless stitching to prevent blisters and chaffing. Another plus is Darn Tough's no-questions-asked lifetime guarantee.A soft coolerClevermadeCleverMade SnapBasket Soft-Sided Cooler Tote, available at Amazon, $44.99Dad is going to need a good cooler for bringing groceries home from the store or packing baby food for a road trip. This one has a 50-can capacity, but it still folds up small enough to stash under the seat when they don't need it.A custom print of baby's footprintsPine & Poem Baby / EtsyBaby Footprint Art Print, available at Etsy, from $18It's always hard to believe how little they used to be. This is an attractive, thoughtful personalized that fits nicely anywhere in the home.A tool kitAmazonCartman General Household 39-piece toolkit, available at Amazon, $19.99There's just something about being a dad that turns everyone into an overnight handy person. This tool kit includes all the basics they'll need for assembling or repairing all that new gear in the nursery and beyond.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

When analyzing the value of a specific property, the most common way is to create a comparative market analysis or real estate CMA. There are several reasons why a comparative market analysis is an important tool for real estate agents when evaluating the value of a property. First and foremost, a CMA allows for an… The post 5 Reasons to Create a Comparative Market Analysis appeared first on RISMedia. When analyzing the value of a specific property, the most common way is to create a comparative market analysis or real estate CMA. There are several reasons why a comparative market analysis is an important tool for real estate agents when evaluating the value of a property. First and foremost, a CMA allows for an apples-to-apples comparison of properties in the same geographic area. The analysis is essential because it allows for an accurate calculation of prices that should be used to negotiate a sale. Second, a CMA can help identify any property value trends over time. This information can be useful in formulating pricing strategies and determining when it may be appropriate to sell a property. Finally, if you are buying or selling a property, having access to data related to similar properties can help you make informed decisions about whether or not to purchase or sell. Be a local real estate market expert For a real estate agent, the comparative market analysis allows you to have the expertise to guide sellers on the proper pricing for their property. It also helps determine what segment of the market is the hottest. The CMA lets you quickly gather vital statistics like the average days on the market for similar homes. You can glean key things like what types of properties are selling the fastest. Are homes in neighborhoods preferred, or are private settings more desirable? Buyers also rely on an analysis of value before making an offer. Being accurate with your cma is key Protective home sellers often will meet with more than one real estate agent. Your comparative market analysis is an excellent way to show potential clients how detailed you are. Does your CMA clearly explain how you arrived at the suggested list price and probable sale price? Do the comparable sales make sense? Are there nice color pictures that can help the client discern an accurate comparison between properties? These are all crucial questions to ask yourself before presenting your CMA. Both sellers and buyers care about the accuracy of your report. The last thing any consumer wants to discover is that your pricing was wrong. Being inaccurate costs your client money. One of the most vital functions of any real estate is clearly and accurately defining fair market value. A CMA helps with learning local market trends 1. To ensure that you provide the most accurate information to your clients, a comparative market analysis will help you learn about what is selling and what areas of the market. For example, are there a few neighborhoods crushing it due to their popularity? 2. By understanding what is selling, you can price your home realistically and avoid overpricing. 3. By knowing what market areas are hot, you can target your advertising based on potential buyers’ needs and interests. 4. Using a CMA also allows you to make informed decisions when negotiating with buyers or sellers. Knowing the current trends in your area will give you an advantage when bargaining for property values or negotiating contract terms. 5. A CMA gives consumers peace of mind by helping them to understand the market conditions surrounding their specific area. 6. A comparative market analysis also helps real estate agents market to a specific generation of people, such as millennials. An accurate CMA means a quicker home sale The goal of most home sellers is to sell their homes for the most amount of money in the quickest amount of time. The longer a home stays on the market, the likelihood of decreasing the list-to-sale price ratio. Days on the market are your enemy in real estate sales. When a CMA has appropriate information, sound decisions will be made. Pricing is a science and art. Without the help of a market analysis, pricing a property will be very challenging. Home prices accurately go contingent quickly. Zillow estimates can’t replace a comparative market value Unfortunately, some people believe going to a website like Zillow will be an accurate way of determining property value. Too bad that’s not even remotely true. You have a better chance of seeing Bigfoot than an accurate Zillow value. To get proper pricing, you need someone like a real estate agent or appraiser to visit your property to access its amenities, condition, and other factors. Final thoughts A comparative market analysis can be beneficial for your business in many ways. It can help you identify opportunities and risks, create a strategy, and motivate clients to make the best decisions. Bill Gassett is a nationally recognized real estate leader who has been helping people buy and sell MetroWest Massachusetts real estate for the past 35 years. Bill is the owner and founder of Maximum Real Estate Exposure. For the past decade, he has been one of the top RE/MAX REALTORS® in New England. The post 5 Reasons to Create a Comparative Market Analysis appeared first on RISMedia......»»

In a few minutes, electronic music will start pulsing, stuffed animals will be flung through the air, women will emerge spinning Technicolor hula hoops, and a mechanical bull will rev into action, bucking off one delighted rider after another. It’s the closing party of ETHDenver, a weeklong cryptocurrency conference dedicated to the blockchain Ethereum. Lines… In a few minutes, electronic music will start pulsing, stuffed animals will be flung through the air, women will emerge spinning Technicolor hula hoops, and a mechanical bull will rev into action, bucking off one delighted rider after another. It’s the closing party of ETHDenver, a weeklong cryptocurrency conference dedicated to the blockchain Ethereum. Lines have stretched around the block for days. Now, on this Sunday night in February, the giddy energy is peaking. But as the crowd pushes inside, a wiry man with elfin features is sprinting out of the venue, past astonished selfie takers and venture capitalists. Some call out, imploring him to stay; others even chase him down the street, on foot and on scooters. Yet the man outruns them all, disappearing into the privacy of his hotel lobby, alone. [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”] Vitalik Buterin, the most influential person in crypto, didn’t come to Denver to party. He doesn’t drink or particularly enjoy crowds. Not that there isn’t plenty for the 28-year-old creator of Ethereum to celebrate. Nine years ago, Buterin dreamed up Ethereum as a way to leverage the blockchain technology underlying Bitcoin for all sorts of uses beyond currency. Since then, it has emerged as the bedrock layer of what advocates say will be a new, open-source, decentralized internet. Ether, the platform’s native currency, has become the second biggest cryptocurrency behind Bitcoin, powering a trillion-dollar ecosystem that rivals Visa in terms of the money it moves. Ethereum has brought thousands of unbanked people around the world into financial systems, allowed capital to flow unencumbered across borders, and provided the infrastructure for entrepreneurs to build all sorts of new products, from payment systems to prediction markets, digital swap meets to medical-research hubs. Photograph by Benjamin Rasmussen for TIME But even as crypto has soared in value and volume, Buterin has watched the world he created evolve with a mixture of pride and dread. Ethereum has made a handful of white men unfathomably rich, pumped pollutants into the air, and emerged as a vehicle for tax evasion, money laundering, and mind-boggling scams. “Crypto itself has a lot of dystopian potential if implemented wrong,” the Russian-born Canadian explains the morning after the party in an 80-minute interview in his hotel room. Buterin worries about the dangers to overeager investors, the soaring transaction fees, and the shameless displays of wealth that have come to dominate public perception of crypto. “The peril is you have these $3 million monkeys and it becomes a different kind of gambling,” he says, referring to the Bored Ape Yacht Club, an überpopular NFT collection of garish primate cartoons that has become a digital-age status symbol for millionaires including Jimmy Fallon and Paris Hilton, and which have traded for more than $1 million a pop. “There definitely are lots of people that are just buying yachts and Lambos.” Read More: Politicians Show Their Increasing Interest In Crypto at ETHDenver 2022 Buterin hopes Ethereum will become the launchpad for all sorts of sociopolitical experimentation: fairer voting systems, urban planning, universal basic income, public-works projects. Above all, he wants the platform to be a counterweight to authoritarian governments and to upend Silicon Valley’s stranglehold over our digital lives. But he acknowledges that his vision for the transformative power of Ethereum is at risk of being overtaken by greed. And so he has reluctantly begun to take on a bigger public role in shaping its future. “If we don’t exercise our voice, the only things that get built are the things that are immediately profitable,” he says, reedy voice rising and falling as he fidgets his hands and sticks his toes between the cushions of a lumpy gray couch. “And those are often far from what’s actually the best for the world.” The irony is that despite all of Buterin’s cachet, he may not have the ability to prevent Ethereum from veering off course. That’s because he designed it as a decentralized platform, responsive not only to his own vision but also to the will of its builders, investors, and ever sprawling community. Buterin is not the formal leader of Ethereum. And he fundamentally rejects the idea that anyone should hold unilateral power over its future. Benjamin Rasmussen for TIMEButerin dons Shiba Inu pajama pants onstage at ETHDenver Which has left Buterin reliant on the limited tools of soft power: writing blog posts, giving interviews, conducting research, speaking at conferences where many attendees just want to bask in the glow of their newfound riches. “I’ve been yelling a lot, and sometimes that yelling does feel like howling into the wind,” he says, his eyes darting across the room. Whether or not his approach works (and how much sway Buterin has over his own brainchild) may be the difference between a future in which Ethereum becomes the basis of a new era of digital life, and one in which it’s just another instrument of financial speculation—credit-default swaps with a utopian patina. Three days after the music stops at ETHDenver, Buterin’s attention turns across the world, back to the region where he was born. In the war launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin, cryptocurrency almost immediately became a tool of Ukrainian resistance. More than $100 million in crypto was raised in the invasion’s first three weeks for the Ukrainian government and NGOs. Cryptocurrency has also provided a lifeline for some fleeing Ukrainians whose banks are inaccessible. At the same time, regulators worry that it will be used by Russian oligarchs to evade sanctions. Buterin has sprung into action too, matching hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants toward relief efforts and publicly lambasting Putin’s decision to invade. “One silver lining of the situation in the last three weeks is that it has reminded a lot of people in the crypto space that ultimately the goal of crypto is not to play games with million-dollar pictures of monkeys, it’s to do things that accomplish meaningful effects in the real world,” Buterin wrote in an email to TIME on March 14. His outspoken advocacy marks a change for a leader who has been slow to find his political voice. “One of the decisions I made in 2022 is to try to be more risk-taking and less neutral,” Buterin says. “I would rather Ethereum offend some people than turn into something that stands for nothing.” The war is personal to Buterin, who has both Russian and Ukrainian ancestry. He was born outside Moscow in 1994 to two computer scientists, Dmitry Buterin and Natalia Ameline, a few years after the fall of the Soviet Union. Monetary and social systems had collapsed; his mother’s parents lost their life savings amid rising inflation. “Growing up in the USSR, I didn’t realize most of the stuff I’d been told in school that was good, like communism, was all propaganda,” explains Dmitry. “So I wanted Vitalik to question conventions and beliefs, and he grew up very independent as a thinker.” The family initially lived in a university dorm room with a shared bathroom. There were no disposable diapers available, so his parents washed his by hand. Vitalik grew up with a turbulent, teeming mind. Dmitry says Vitalik learned how to read before he could sleep through the night, and was slow to form sentences compared with his peers. “Because his mind was going so fast,” Dmitry recalls, “it was actually hard for him to express himself verbally for some time.” Instead, Vitalik gravitated to the clarity of numbers. At 4, he inherited his parents’ old IBM computer and started playing around with Excel spreadsheets. At 7, he could recite more than a hundred digits of pi, and would shout out math equations to pass the time. By 12, he was coding inside Microsoft Office Suite. The precocious child’s isolation from his peers had been exacerbated by a move to Toronto in 2000, the same year Putin was first elected. His father characterizes Vitalik’s Canadian upbringing as “lucky and naive.” Vitalik himself uses the words “lonely and disconnected.” Courtesy Dmitry ButerinButerin on his IBM In 2011, Dmitry introduced Vitalik to Bitcoin, which had been created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. After seeing the collapse of financial systems in both Russia and the U.S., Dmitry was intrigued by the idea of an alternative global money source that was uncontrolled by authorities. Vitalik soon began writing articles exploring the new technology for the magazine Bitcoin Weekly, for which he earned 5 bitcoins a pop (back then, some $4; today, it would be worth about $200,000). Even as a teenager, Vitalik Buterin proved to be a pithy writer, able to articulate complex ideas about cryptocurrency and its underlying technology in clear prose. At 18, he co-founded Bitcoin Magazine and became its lead writer, earning a following both in Toronto and abroad. “A lot of people think of him as a typical techie engineer,” says Nathan Schneider, a media-studies professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder, who first interviewed Buterin in 2014. “But a core of his practice even more so is observation and writing—and that helped him see a cohesive vision that others weren’t seeing yet.” As Buterin learned more about the blockchain technology on which Bitcoin was built, he began to believe using it purely for currency was a waste. The blockchain, he thought, could serve as an efficient method for securing all sorts of assets: web applications, organizations, financial derivatives, nonpredatory loan programs, even wills. Each of these could be operated by “smart contracts,” code that could be programmed to carry out transactions without the need for intermediaries. A decentralized version of the rideshare industry, for example, could be built to send money directly from passengers to drivers, without Uber swiping a cut of the proceeds. Read the rest of Buterin’s interview in TIME’s newsletter Into the Metaverse. Subscribe for a weekly guide to the future of the Internet. You can find past issues of the newsletter here. In 2013, Buterin dropped out of college and wrote a 36-page white paper laying out his vision for Ethereum: a new open-source blockchain on which programmers could build any sort of application they wished. (Buterin swiped the name from a Wikipedia list of elements from science fiction.) He sent it to friends in the Bitcoin community, who passed it around. Soon a handful of programmers and businessmen around the world sought out Buterin in hopes of helping him bring it to life. Within months, a group of eight men who would become known as Ethereum’s founders were sharing a three-story Airbnb in Switzerland, writing code and wooing investors. While some of the other founders mixed work and play—watching Game of Thrones, persuading friends to bring over beer in exchange for Ether IOUs—Buterin mostly kept to himself, coding away on his laptop, according to Laura Shin’s recent book about the history of Ethereum, The Cryptopians. Over time, it became apparent that the group had very different plans for the nascent technology. Buterin wanted a decentralized open platform on which anyone could build anything. Others wanted to use the technology to create a business. One idea was to build the crypto equivalent to Google, in which Ethereum would use customer data to sell targeted ads. The men also squabbled over power and titles. One co-founder, Charles Hoskinson, appointed himself CEO—a designation that was of no interest to Buterin, who joked his title would be C-3PO, after the droid from Star Wars. The ensuing conflicts left Buterin with culture shock. In the space of a few months, he had gone from a cloistered life of writing code and technical articles to a that of a decisionmaker grappling with bloated egos and power struggles. His vision for Ethereum hung in the balance. “The biggest divide was definitely that a lot of these people cared about making money. For me, that was totally not my goal,” says Buterin, whose net worth is at least $800 million, according to public records on the blockchain whose accuracy was confirmed by a spokesperson. “There were even times at the beginning where I was negotiating down the percentages of the Ether distribution that both myself and the other top-level founders would get, in order to be more egalitarian. That did make them upset.” TIME Buterin says the other founders tried to take advantage of his naiveté to push through their own ideas about how Ethereum should run. “People used my fear of regulators against me,” he recalls, “saying that we should have a for-profit entity because it’s so much simpler legally than making a nonprofit.” As tensions rose, the group implored Buterin to make a decision. In June 2014, he asked Hoskinson and Amir Chetrit, two co-founders who were pushing Ethereum to become a business, to leave the group. He then set in motion the creation of the Ethereum Foundation (EF), a nonprofit established to safeguard Ethereum’s infrastructure and fund research and development projects. One by one, all the other founders peeled off over the next few years to pursue their own projects, either in tandem with Ethereum or as direct competitors. Some of them remain critical of Buterin’s approach. “In the dichotomy between centralization and anarchy, Ethereum seems to be going toward anarchy,” says Hoskinson, who now leads his own blockchain, Cardano. “We think there’s a middle ground to create some sort of blockchain-based governance system.” With the founders splintered, Buterin emerged as Ethereum’s philosophical leader. He had a seat on the EF board and the clout to shape industry trends and move markets with his public pronouncements. He even became known as “V God” in China. But he didn’t exactly step into the power vacuum. “He’s not good at bossing people around,” says Aya Miyaguchi, the executive director of the EF. “From a social-navigation perspective, he was immature. He’s probably still conflict-averse,” says Danny Ryan, a lead researcher at the EF. Buterin calls his struggle to inhabit the role of an organizational leader “my curse for the first few years at Ethereum.” It’s not hard to see why. Buterin still does not present stereotypical leadership qualities when you meet him. He sniffles and stutters through his sentences, walks stiffly, and struggles to hold eye contact. He puts almost no effort into his clothing, mostly wearing Uniqlo tees or garments gifted to him by friends. His disheveled appearance has made him an easy target on social media: he recently shared insults from online hecklers who said he looked like a “Bond villain” or an “alien crackhead.” Yet almost everyone who has a full conversation with Buterin comes away starry-eyed. Buterin is wryly funny and almost wholly devoid of pretension or ego. He’s an unabashed geek whose eyes spark when he alights upon one of his favorite concepts, whether it be quadratic voting or the governance system futarchy. Just as Ethereum is designed to be an everything machine, Buterin is an everything thinker, fluent in disciplines ranging from sociological theory to advanced calculus to land-tax history. (He’s currently using Duolingo to learn his fifth and sixth languages.) He doesn’t talk down to people, and he eschews a security detail. “An emotional part of me says that once you start going down that way, professionalizing is just another word for losing your soul,” he says. Benjamin Rasmussen for TIMEButerin, seen through a monitor at ETHDenver Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit and a major crypto investor, says being around Buterin gives him “a similar vibe to when I first got to know Sir Tim Berners-Lee,” the inventor of the World Wide Web. “He’s very thoughtful and unassuming,” Ohanian says, “and he’s giving the world some of the most powerful Legos it’s ever seen.” For years, Buterin has been grappling with how much power to exercise in Ethereum’s decentralized ecosystem. The first major test came in 2016, when a newly created Ethereum-based fundraising body called the DAO was hacked for $60 million, which amounted at the time to more than 4% of all Ether in circulation. The hack tested the crypto community’s values: if they truly believed no central authority should override the code governing smart contracts, then thousands of investors would simply have to eat the loss—which could, in turn, encourage more hackers. On the other hand, if Buterin chose to reverse the hack using a maneuver called a hard fork, he would be wielding the same kind of central authority as the financial systems he sought to replace. Buterin took a middle ground. He consulted with other Ethereum leaders, wrote blog posts advocating for the hard fork, and watched as the community voted overwhelmingly in favor of that option via forums and petitions. When Ethereum developers created the fork, users and miners had the option to stick with the hacked version of the blockchain. But they overwhelmingly chose the forked version, and Ethereum quickly recovered in value. To Buterin, the DAO hack epitomized the promise of a decentralized approach to governance. “Leadership has to rely much more on soft power and less on hard power, so leaders have to actually take into account the feelings of the community and treat them with respect,” he says. “Leadership positions aren’t fixed, so if leaders stop performing, the world forgets about them. And the converse is that it’s very easy for new leaders to rise up.” Over the past few years, countless leaders have risen up in Ethereum, building all kinds of products, tokens, and subcultures. There was the ICO boom of 2017, in which venture capitalists raised billions of dollars for blockchain projects. There was DeFi summer in 2020, in which new trading mechanisms and derivative structures sent money whizzing around the world at hyperspeed. And there was last year’s explosion of NFTs: tradeable digital goods, like profile pictures, art collections, and sports cards, that skyrocketed in value. Skeptics have derided the utility of NFTs, in which billion-dollar economies have been built upon the perceived digital ownership of simple images that can easily be copied and pasted. But they have rapidly become one of the most utilized components of the Ethereum ecosystem. In January, the NFT trading platform OpenSea hit a record $5 billion in monthly sales. Benjamin Rasmussen for TIMEConference­goers line up to ask Buterin questions after his keynote Buterin didn’t predict the rise of NFTs, and has watched the phenomenon with a mixture of interest and anxiety. On one hand, they have helped to turbocharge the price of Ether, which has increased more than tenfold in value over the past two years. (Disclosure: I own less than $1,300 worth of Ether, which I purchased in 2021.) But their volume has overwhelmed the network, leading to a steep rise in congestion fees, in which, for instance, bidders trying to secure a rare NFT pay hundreds of dollars extra to make sure their transactions are expedited. Read More: NFT Art Collectors Are Playing a Risky Game—And Winning The fees have undermined some of Buterin’s favorite projects on the blockchain. Take Proof of Humanity, which awards a universal basic income—currently about $40 per month—to anyone who signs up. Depending on the week, the network’s congestion fees can make pulling money out of your wallet to pay for basic needs prohibitively expensive. “With fees being the way they are today,” Buterin says, “it really gets to the point where the financial derivatives and the gambley stuff start pricing out some of the cool stuff.” Inequities have crept into crypto in other ways, including a stark lack of gender and racial diversity. “It hasn’t been among the things I’ve put a lot of intellectual effort into,” Buterin admits of gender parity. “The ecosystem does need to improve there.” He’s scornful of the dominance of coin voting, a voting process for DAOs that Buterin feels is just a new version of plutocracy, one in which wealthy venture capitalists can make self-interested decisions with little resistance. “It’s become a de facto standard, which is a dystopia I’ve been seeing unfolding over the last few years,” he says. These problems have sparked a backlash both inside and outside the blockchain community. As crypto rockets toward the mainstream, its esoteric jargon, idiosyncratic culture, and financial excesses have been met with widespread disdain. Meanwhile, frustrated users are decamping to newer blockchains like Solana and BNB Chain, driven by the prospect of lower transaction fees, alternative building tools, or different philosophical values. Buterin understands why people are moving away from Ethereum. Unlike virtually any other leader in a trillion-dollar industry, he says he’s fine with it—especially given that Ethereum’s current problems stem from the fact that it has too many users. (Losing immense riches doesn’t faze him much, either: last year, he dumped $6 billion worth of Shiba Inu tokens that were gifted to him, explaining that he wanted to give some to charity, help maintain the meme coin’s value, and surrender his role as a “locus of power.”) In the meantime, he and the EF—which holds almost a billion dollars worth of Ether in reserve, a representative confirmed—are taking several approaches to improve the ecosystem. Last year, they handed out $27 million to Ethereum-based projects, up from $7.7 million in 2019, to recipients including smart-contract developers and an educational conference in Lagos. The EF research team is also working on two crucial technical updates. The first is known as the “merge,” which converts Ethereum from Proof of Work, a form of blockchain verification, to Proof of Stake, which the EF says will reduce Ethereum’s energy usage by more than 99% and make the network more secure. Buterin has been stumping for Proof of Stake since Ethereum’s founding, but repeated delays have turned implementation into a Waiting for Godot–style drama. At ETHDenver, the EF researcher Danny Ryan declared that the merge would happen within the next six months, unless “something insanely catastrophic” happens. The same day, Buterin encouraged companies worried about the environmental impact to delay using Ethereum until the merge is completed—even if it “gets delayed until 2025.” Benjamin Rasmussen for TIMEETHDenver attendee Brent Burdick checks his phone in an NFT gallery room In January, Moxie Marlinspike, co-founder of the messaging app Signal, wrote a widely read critique noting that despite its collectivist mantras, so-called web3 was already coalescing around centralized platforms. As he often does when faced with legitimate criticism, Buterin responded with a thoughtful, detailed post on Reddit. “The properly authenticated decentralized blockchain world is coming, and is much closer to being here than many people think,” he wrote. “I see no technical reason why the future needs to look like the status quo today.” Buterin is aware that crypto’s utopian promises sound stale to many, and calls the race to implement sharding in the face of competition a “ticking time bomb.” “If we don’t have sharding fast enough, then people might just start migrating to more centralized solutions,” he says. “And if after all that stuff happens and it still centralizes, then yes, there’s a much stronger argument that there’s a big problem.” As the technical kinks get worked out, Buterin has turned his attention toward larger sociopolitical issues he thinks the blockchain might solve. On his blog and on Twitter, you’ll find treatises on housing; on voting systems; on the best way to distribute public goods; on city building and longevity research. While Buterin spent much of the pandemic living in Singapore, he increasingly lives as a digital nomad, writing dispatches from the road. Those who know Buterin well have noticed a philosophical shift over the years. “He’s gone on a journey from being more sympathetic to anarcho-capitalist thinking to Georgist-type thinking,” says Glen Weyl, an economist who is one of his close collaborators, referring to a theory that holds the value of the commons should belong equally to all members of society. One of Buterin’s recent posts calls for the creation of a new type of NFT, based not on monetary value but on participation and identity. For instance, the allocation of votes in an organization might be determined by the commitment an individual has shown to the group, as opposed to the number of tokens they own. “NFTs can represent much more of who you are and not just what you can afford,” he writes. Read More: How Crypto Investors Are Handling Plunging Prices While Buterin’s blog is one of his main tools of public persuasion, his posts aren’t meant to be decrees, but rather intellectual explorations that invite debate. Buterin often dissects the flaws of obscure ideas he once wrote effusively about, like Harberger taxes. His blog is a model for how a leader can work through complex ideas with transparency and rigor, exposing the messy process of intellectual growth for all to see, and perhaps learn from. Some of Buterin’s more radical ideas can provoke alarm. In January, he caused a minor outrage on Twitter by advocating for synthetic wombs, which he argued could reduce the pay gap between men and women. He predicts there’s a decent chance someone born today will live to be 3,000, and takes the anti-diabetes medication Metformin in the hope of slowing his body’s aging, despite mixed studies on the drug’s efficacy. Subscribe to TIME’s newsletter Into the Metaverse for a weekly guide to the future of the Internet. You can find past issues of the newsletter here. As governmental bodies prepare to wade into crypto—in March, President Biden signed an Executive Order seeking a federal plan for regulating digital assets—Buterin has increasingly been sought out by politicians. At ETHDenver, he held a private conversation with Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat who supports cryptocurrencies. Buterin is anxious about crypto’s political valence in the U.S., where Republicans have generally been more eager to embrace it. “There’s definitely signs that are making it seem like crypto is on the verge of becoming a right-leaning thing,” Buterin says. “If it does happen, we’ll sacrifice a lot of the potential it has to offer.” To Buterin, the worst-case scenario for the future of crypto is that blockchain technology ends up concentrated in the hands of dictatorial governments. He is unhappy with El Salvador’s rollout of Bitcoin as legal tender, which has been riddled with identity theft and volatility. The prospect of governments using the technology to crack down on dissent is one reason Buterin is adamant about crypto remaining decentralized. He sees the technology as the most powerful equalizer to surveillance technology deployed by governments (like China’s) and powerful companies (like Meta) alike. If Mark Zuckerberg shouldn’t have the power to make epoch-changing decisions or control users’ data for profit, Buterin believes, then neither should he—even if that limits his ability to shape the future of his creation, sends some people to other blockchains, or allows others to use his platform in unsavory ways. “I would love to have an ecosystem that has lots of good crazy and bad crazy,” Buterin says. “Bad crazy is when there’s just huge amounts of money being drained and all it’s doing is subsidizing the hacker industry. Good crazy is when there’s tech work and research and development and public goods coming out of the other end. So there’s this battle. And we have to be intentional, and make sure more of the right things happen.” —With reporting by Nik Popli and Mariah Espada/Washington.....»»

Give your grandparents the kind of gift that shows your love and appreciation for them. We found 40+ meaningful and useful gift ideas they'll love. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. JGI/Jamie Grill/Getty Images In this list, you'll find 42 gifts to give grandparents to thank them for the many years of love. For more gift ideas, check out all Insider Reviews gift guides here. Still looking for a gift? Check out our list of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested. Shopping for grandparents can be daunting. They've likely gotten the basics down pat, and if you ask for ideas you'll likely get a genuine "nothing" in response. But these are the people who sat through your band recitals even though they were unbearably boring. They weathered your tantrums and sticky fingers on their furniture, and they probably slipped you candy even when someone else said no. So, what can you do for them?Below are 42 gifts that you can feel good about gifting. They're thoughtful, useful, sweet, and bound to be extremely appreciated by grandmas and grandpas.Check out all 42 cool gifts for grandparents below: Nice tea and a cute infuser Amazon/Business Insider Genuine Fred Duck Tea Infuser, available at Amazon, $12.14Buy a cute tea infuser and your grandparents will think of you every time they use it. Don't forget to pair it with some delicious loose leaf tea blends. A DNA test that lets them delve into family history ancestryDNA AncestryDNA Genetic Test, available at Ancestry, $59Your grandparents are the origins and default architects of much of your life, and AncestryDNA gives them — and you — the chance to explore and appreciate that history. They'll be able to see their heritage and genetic breakdown (aka 50% Irish, 30% Italian, and so on) and can build family trees complete with historical documents and censuses already on the site. If they're interested in history, they'll love this. A bouquet of fresh flowers 1-800-Flowers Fields of Europe Christmas Bouquet, available at 1-800-Flowers, from $39.99What's nicer than getting a gorgeous bouquet of sweet-smelling flowers sent to your home? Probably only getting to walk by them every day. If you want to send grandma and/or grandpa a bouquet of something fresh and beautiful to enjoy, flowers are a thoughtful option that can typically be delivered within days of purchasing. A funny ode to the festive family moments we all know and love Amazon/Business Insider Senior Moments: Christmas, available at Amazon, $8.59If your grandparents love a good joke, this funny seasonal book illustrates festive family moments from the holidays. Just flip through the first few sample pages to make sure it matches their humor before ordering en masse.  A pair of comfortable sneakers Allbirds Shop all Allbirds sneakers hereEveryone deserves comfortable sneakers and if your grandparents aren't familiar with Allbirds, it's time to get them up to speed. The brand makes footwear using sustainable materials like merino wool, recycled trees, sugarcane, and natural rubber. Check out all of our reviews on Allbirds sneakers to choose the best pair for them. A popular vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle Hydro Flask Hydro Flask 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Bottle, available at REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Hydro Flask, from $33.71This vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle works really well. It keeps hot drinks hot for up to six hours, and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. We also love this $30 mug version. The latest Apple AirPods Apple Apple AirPods 3rd Gen, $179Bluetooth headphones always make a great gift for anyone with a smartphone. If grandma and grandpa are iPhone users, AirPods are the best choice because they're incredibly easy to pair and they're easy to carry. Frame one of your favorite memories with them. Framebridge Framed Photo, from $25Framebridge Gift Card, from $25Framebridge makes custom framing for not-custom-framing prices. You can print or paint something on your own and have it framed for your grandparents, and you can even take advantage of a team of designers if you want help deciding what frame to get. If you want to give them total control, you can give a gift card and help them with the process if needed. A cheeky Anne Taintor wall calendar Amazon/Business Insider Anne Taintor 2021 Wall Calendar, available at Amazon, $15.99If your grandparents love cheeky humor, Anne Taintor's iconic funny wall calendars are a great place to start. Taintor often pokes fun at domestic stereotypes and uses mid-century advertisements as the main images. Another foolproof option is the 2021 "Dog Shaming Calendar" for $12. Fresh coffee beans from all over the world delivered to their door Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Subscription or Gift Set, available at Atlas Coffee Club, from $60Atlas Coffee sends them fresh beans from across the globe to their door. They'll learn about its flavor profile, tasting notes, suggested brewing methods, a little history lesson in its origins — and each comes in a bag with festive packaging. If they've been coffee buffs for a while — or just love having a morning cup — they'll appreciate both the thought and opportunity to learn something new.  A touching book to read with young grandkids Amazon/Business Insider How to Babysit a Grandma and a Grandpa Boxed Set, available at Amazon, $23.97This New York Times bestselling kids' picture book is written in a how-to style, with the narrator giving important tips for "babysitting" a grandpa and grandma. It's the perfect gift for new grandparents and little grandkids excited to spend time together.  The collectible edition of a favorite book Barnes and Noble Grimm's Complete Fairy Tales (Collectible Editions), available at Barnes & Noble, $25Grab one of your grandparents' favorite books in one of Barnes & Noble's Collectible Editions Classics to gift them a pillar for their home library. These volumes feature authoritative texts by some of the world's most renown authors and come in beautifully designed bonded-leather binding with gilt edging and a ribbon bookmark.  Practical tea towels that look like classic oil painting still lives. Food52 Old Masters Cotton Tea Towel, available at Food52, $30These tea towels more practically display the dramatic still-life scenes that are typically found on oil wall-hangings: fruit, oysters, cheese, etc. They're interesting, beautiful to look at, and great to use around the kitchen.  A salt block that'll make grilled foods taste even better Crated and Barrel Himalayan Salt Block, available at Crate and Barrel, from $34.95A salt block is the multitasking tool more and more kitchens are adopting. They're a stable crystal structure, which means they can hold a temperature very well. It can be chilled to use as a serving platter for sushi, or heated over a grill or stovetop to cook veggies infused with flavor. Himalayan salt is more nuanced than table salt, and the amount of saltiness imparted varies with the type of food (moist foods absorb more salt, fatty foods repel it, etc.). It's also long-lasting and naturally antibacterial. A tiny smart garden that they can grow herbs in easily and year-round Amazon Click and Grow Smart Garden, available at Click and Grow, $149.96If your grandparents love gardening or cooking, this kitchen garden is great for fresh herbs and year-round gardening and comes with pods for mini tomato, basil, and green lettuce. Not all climates and spaces are hospitable to herbs, but Click and Grow maintains one that is. It's low-maintenance so there's not a ton of involvement with tech or even much watering, and they're not likely to already have one.  A good-looking, cleverly designed container for artisan cheeses Food52 Cheese Vault, available at Food52, from $34You can't go wrong with a cute, handy place for storing artisan cheese that looks far nicer than plastic wrap. Grab some tasty options to start them off with, too.  The best socks they'll ever wear United by Blue The Ultimate Bison Sock, available at United by Blue, $38United by Blue makes some of the most comfortable and warmest socks we've ever worn. They're made of merino wool, bison down, and nylon and have reinforced heel and toe areas. We're also big fans of Bombas socks.  A media streaming device - and access to your Netflix Amazon Roku Express HD Streaming Media Player, available at Amazon, $29.99Turn their TV into a smart TV with the Roku. Set it up for them, show them the ropes, and log them into your Netflix and Hulu if they don't already have their own. Call them later to chat about recommendations or great new shows you're watching, so you can enjoy them together. A calendar full of cherished personal photos Artifact Uprising Brass Easel and Calendar, available at Artifact Uprising, from $49Photos of loved ones are an instant source of joy, and structuring our daily life around them with a calendar is a great way to fill each day with more gratitude and happiness. Artifact Uprising has one that comes on a wood clipboard ($35) and a wall calendar ($42) that you can customize. The calendar is updated on a rolling 12-month basis, so you don't have to wait until January to create one. A journal that prompts them to record their own personal history for a new family keepsake Uncommon Goods My Life Story — So Far, available at Uncommon Goods, $30Prompt them to sit down and write about their own life, and make a lasting family keepsake in the process. This journal provides prompts, so it's not as daunting as starting from the beginning. It also shows that you're interested in learning about what they have to say and their own experiences.  A soothing bubble bath from a well-loved brand Amazon L'Occitane Relaxing & Foaming Lavender Bubble Bath, available at Amazon, $39This cult-favorite lavender-scented bubble bath from L'Occitane is a great way to relax, and it takes a while to get through.  A luxe holiday candle that comes in a hand-blown glass container they can reuse Bloomingdale's LAFCO Feu de Bois Ski House Candle, available at Bloomingdales, $65LAFCO candles are over $60 for a reason; they smell incredible, they're made simply from soy with a cotton wick, and the container is hand-blown glass that can be washed and used as a centerpiece for everything from candy to plants. This size has a 90-hour burn time. A photo book or photo calendar you curated for them of their favorite people and places Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book, available at Artifact Uprising, from $62Grandparents are often the gatekeepers to the most involved, best-kept baby books. School pictures, spelling tests, and holidays spent with them are all preserved with the genuine, all-encompassing interest reserved only for grandparents. Rarely, however, do we get to do the same for them. Set aside some time and curate a photo book for them from Artifact Uprising with pictures of their favorite places, people, and memories.Or, if you think they'll use it more, a calendar of you, them, your parents, and their grandkids — primed for a happy exhibition the next time their friends come over. A new cookbook from a beloved Italian restaurant in Brooklyn Amazon/Business Insider The Frankie Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual, available at Amazon, $18.43Frankies Spuntino is a tin-ceilinged, brick-walled restaurant in Brooklyn that draws crowds from every walk of life for food that is deeply satisfying. Here, the entire Frankies menu — and it's reimagined Italian American comfort food — is adapted for the home cook. If either of your grandparents loves cooking, they'll probably love this thoughtful — and new — gesture.If you want to gift something that honors your own family recipes, check out this recipe book you or they can write in from Uncommon Goods.  A monthly sampling of some of the tastiest products from around the country Mouth/Instagram Best of Mouth Subscription, available at Mouth, from $54/monthFoodies will love the chance to test small-batch, locally made products from around the country. Mouth sources and curates subscription boxes of their favorites, which they'll receive each month. An Echo Dot that's easy to use and extremely helpful Amazon 4th Generation Echo Dot, available at Amazon, $59.99If your grandparents aren't extremely techy, the Echo Dot is an especially good starter gift. It maximizes convenience, requires little interaction after setup, and takes up minimal space. They can easily ask Alexa for recipes, the weather, the news, and to control things like the lights. You could also grab a few accompanying smart bulbs if they either hate getting up to turn them off or if their knees tend to bother them. Stick around to set it up, and show them a few of the coolest features. Tea from around the world Uncommon Goods Tea From Around the World Set, $55If your grandparents prefer tea over coffee, this set will let them sample some of the best flavors from across the globe. A Nespresso that makes everything from a latte to a cappuccino just the way they like it - and from the comfort of home Nespresso Nespresso Lattissima One, available at Amazon, $449.90This is a pricey gift, but one that makes pretty amazing coffee without much more involvement than dropping a pod into the machine. They can make everything from delicious cappuccinos to lattes right at home, which is probably why it was listed as one of Oprah's Favorite Things in 2018. Long-distance twin lamps that light up when one of you touches it Uncommon Goods Long Distance Touch Lamp, available at Uncommon Goods, from $85These sentimental long-distance lamps are perfect for grandkids that live far away from their grandparents. Keep one in your home and one at your grandparents' home, and whenever you touch it, their lamp will light up too. It's a simple and instantaneous way to say "I love you!" from across the country. A Jo Malone diffuser that smells amazing and looks good in a home Nordstrom Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Scent Diffuser, available at Nordstrom, $85A diffuser is like the modern take on potpourri, and Jo Malone makes some incredibly good scents. They'll recognize the brand, like the smell, and the clean, minimalist glass container means they won't only bring this out when they know you're coming over. Warm, fluffy slippers they'll love wearing Nordstrom UGG Dakota Water Resistant Slipper, available at Nordstrom, $100Make sure grandma's feet are kept cozy year-round in these plush UGG slippers with rubber soles for indoor or outdoor use.  A gift subscription to a cool wine service they're not likely to already use Vinebox Shop all Vinebox collections here.Vinebox gifts let the recipient try nine of the best wines of the moment every quarter. Their delivery will include nine vials portioned to be full glasses, with each selected based on their personal tastes and preferences. They'll also get a credit for either $15 or $30 to use on full bottles.  A vintage-style record player Amazon Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 Vinyl Record Player, $199.99Your grandparents probably have a massive collection of records but an outdated record player. With the Kingston 7-in-1, they'll get the vintage feel of old-school record players with additional modern features like Bluetooth, aux, and the ability to turn vinyl into mp3s. A vintage-inspired knit sweater Todd Snyder L.L.Bean x Todd Snyder Bear Sweater, $199Remember all those wonderful knit sweaters you got as gifts over the years? Now it's time to pay it back with a similar gift. Todd Snyder's collaboration with L.L.Bean features several vintage-inspired sweaters that will leave your grandparents feeling nostalgic.  Aura Aura Carver Digital Picture Frame, $169, available at AuraSet up a digital picture frame at Grandma and Grandpa's house and they'll be able to view all of their favorite images from one device. An e-reader with a no-glare screen The Kindle Paperwhite's new, warmer backlight. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, available at Amazon, $139.99If your grandparents love to read, the first device you should gift is probably the go-anywhere, read-anything Paperwhite. Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof and has a no-glare screen even in direct sunlight — great for long days spent on the porch or at the beach.  A new gadget that lets them preserve wine for years by never technically uncorking it Coravin Coravin Model Two Wine Preservation System, available at Bloomingdale's, $149.95Coravin allows you to pour a glass of wine without ever uncorking the bottle, so you don't have to worry about oxidation ruining the wine. If your grandparents are opening it just for a glass, their wine will stay preserved over weeks, months, and years if they like. It also gives them greater freedom; there's no need to conserve by sharing a bottle, so they can pick their own favorite every time.  A movie night with you, planned out by you Fandango/Business Insider Gift Card, available at Fandango, from $15Once it's safe to do so, take them to a movie — spare no expense on movie popcorn, an unnecessarily huge soft drink, and a candy that is usually gone by the close of previews. Grab a gift card and put it in a nice Etsy card, and set a date for the next blockbuster. They'll probably love just spending time with you, and knowing you went to the trouble to orchestrate this. A comfortable weighted blanket for better rest Gravity Blankets Gravity Blankets, starting at $195Give your grandparents better rest for the holidays with a cult-favorite weighted blanket with a removable cover. By mimicking DPTS (deep pressure touch stimulation), weighted blankets help us calm down, fall asleep faster, stay asleep better and for longer, and feel more rested when we wake up. A high-end shaver for Grandpa Braun Braun Series 9 Pro, $329.99As Braun's most advanced shaver ever, the Series 9 Pro will pro will give Grandpa the best shave he's ever had. A smart frame that allows them to look through photos The Grommet Smart Connected Picture Frame, available at The Grommet, $299If they're tech-savvy, get them a smart picture frame that cycles through family photos from their digital albums or phone. You can also use a built-in family sharing feature to have other people send pictures directly to their frame. A custom painting of their furry best friend Uncommon Goods Custom Painterly Pet Portraits, available at Uncommon Goods, from $250Make sure this is their decor style before committing to it, but a portrait of their pet is probably one of the sweetest and most thoughtful gestures. It's unique, handmade, and pays homage to the little fur-mop that loves lounging in an adjacent sun patch on the couch every day. Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Give your grandparents the kind of gift that shows your love and appreciation for them. We found 40+ meaningful and useful gift ideas they'll love. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. JGI/Jamie Grill/Getty Images In this list, you'll find 43 gifts to give grandparents to thank them for the many years of love. For more gift ideas, check out all Insider Reviews gift guides here. Still looking for a gift? Check out our list of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested. Shopping for grandparents can be daunting. They've likely gotten the basics down pat, and if you ask for ideas you'll likely get a genuine "nothing" in response. But these are the people who sat through your band recitals even though they were unbearably boring. They weathered your tantrums and sticky fingers on their furniture, and they probably slipped you candy even when someone else said no. So, what can you do for them?Below are 43 gifts that you can feel good about gifting. They're thoughtful, useful, sweet, and bound to be extremely appreciated by grandmas and grandpas.Check out all 43 cool gifts for grandparents below: Gifts for grandparents under $25 Nice tea and a cute infuser Amazon/Business Insider Genuine Fred Duck Tea Infuser, available at Amazon, $12.14Buy a cute tea infuser and your grandparents will think of you every time they use it. Don't forget to pair it with some delicious loose leaf tea blends. The best socks they'll ever wear United by Blue The Ultimate Bison Sock, available at United by Blue, $38United by Blue makes some of the most comfortable and warmest socks we've ever worn. They're made of merino wool, bison down, and nylon and have reinforced heel and toe areas. We're also big fans of Bombas socks.  A funny ode to the festive family moments we all know and love Amazon/Business Insider Senior Moments: Christmas, available at Amazon, $8.59If your grandparents love a good joke, this funny seasonal book illustrates festive family moments from the holidays. Just flip through the first few sample pages to make sure it matches their humor before ordering en masse.  Frame one of your favorite memories with them. Framebridge Framed Photo, from $25Framebridge Gift Card, from $25Framebridge makes custom framing for not-custom-framing prices. You can print or paint something on your own and have it framed for your grandparents, and you can even take advantage of a team of designers if you want help deciding what frame to get. If you want to give them total control, you can give a gift card and help them with the process if needed. A cheeky Anne Taintor wall calendar Amazon/Business Insider Anne Taintor 2021 Wall Calendar, available at Amazon, $15.99If your grandparents love cheeky humor, Anne Taintor's iconic funny wall calendars are a great place to start. Taintor often pokes fun at domestic stereotypes and uses mid-century advertisements as the main images. Another foolproof option is the 2021 "Dog Shaming Calendar" for $12. A new cookbook from a beloved Italian restaurant in Brooklyn Amazon/Business Insider The Frankie Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual, available at Amazon, $18.43Frankies Spuntino is a tin-ceilinged, brick-walled restaurant in Brooklyn that draws crowds from every walk of life for food that is deeply satisfying. Here, the entire Frankies menu — and it's reimagined Italian American comfort food — is adapted for the home cook. If either of your grandparents loves cooking, they'll probably love this thoughtful — and new — gesture.If you want to gift something that honors your own family recipes, check out this recipe book you or they can write in from Uncommon Goods.  A movie night with you, planned out by you Fandango/Business Insider Gift Card, available at Fandango, from $15Once it's safe to do so, take them to a movie — spare no expense on movie popcorn, an unnecessarily huge soft drink, and a candy that is usually gone by the close of previews. Grab a gift card and put it in a nice Etsy card, and set a date for the next blockbuster. They'll probably love just spending time with you, and knowing you went to the trouble to orchestrate this. A touching book to read with young grandkids Amazon/Business Insider How to Babysit a Grandma and a Grandpa Boxed Set, available at Amazon, $23.97This New York Times bestselling kids' picture book is written in a how-to style, with the narrator giving important tips for "babysitting" a grandpa and grandma. It's the perfect gift for new grandparents and little grandkids excited to spend time together.  The collectible edition of a favorite book Barnes and Noble Grimm's Complete Fairy Tales (Collectible Editions), available at Barnes & Noble, $25Grab one of your grandparents' favorite books in one of Barnes & Noble's Collectible Editions Classics to gift them a pillar for their home library. These volumes feature authoritative texts by some of the world's most renown authors and come in beautifully designed bonded-leather binding with gilt edging and a ribbon bookmark.  Gifts for grandparents under $50 Practical tea towels that look like classic oil painting still lives. Food52 Old Masters Cotton Tea Towel, available at Food52, $30These tea towels more practically display the dramatic still-life scenes that are typically found on oil wall-hangings: fruit, oysters, cheese, etc. They're interesting, beautiful to look at, and great to use around the kitchen.  A salt block that'll make grilled foods taste even better Crated and Barrel Himalayan Salt Block, available at Crate and Barrel, from $34.95A salt block is the multitasking tool more and more kitchens are adopting. They're a stable crystal structure, which means they can hold a temperature very well. It can be chilled to use as a serving platter for sushi, or heated over a grill or stovetop to cook veggies infused with flavor. Himalayan salt is more nuanced than table salt, and the amount of saltiness imparted varies with the type of food (moist foods absorb more salt, fatty foods repel it, etc.). It's also long-lasting and naturally antibacterial. A good-looking, cleverly designed container for artisan cheeses Food52 Cheese Vault, available at Food52, from $34You can't go wrong with a cute, handy place for storing artisan cheese that looks far nicer than plastic wrap. Grab some tasty options to start them off with, too.  A media streaming device - and access to your Netflix Amazon Roku Express HD Streaming Media Player, available at Amazon, $29.99Turn their TV into a smart TV with the Roku. Set it up for them, show them the ropes, and log them into your Netflix and Hulu if they don't already have their own. Call them later to chat about recommendations or great new shows you're watching, so you can enjoy them together. A popular vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle Hydro Flask Hydro Flask 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Bottle, available at REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Hydro Flask, from $33.71This vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle works really well. It keeps hot drinks hot for up to six hours, and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. We also love this $30 mug version. A calendar full of cherished personal photos Artifact Uprising Brass Easel and Calendar, available at Artifact Uprising, from $49Photos of loved ones are an instant source of joy, and structuring our daily life around them with a calendar is a great way to fill each day with more gratitude and happiness. Artifact Uprising has one that comes on a wood clipboard ($35) and a wall calendar ($42) that you can customize. The calendar is updated on a rolling 12-month basis, so you don't have to wait until January to create one. A journal that prompts them to record their own personal history for a new family keepsake Uncommon Goods My Life Story — So Far, available at Uncommon Goods, $30Prompt them to sit down and write about their own life, and make a lasting family keepsake in the process. This journal provides prompts, so it's not as daunting as starting from the beginning. It also shows that you're interested in learning about what they have to say and their own experiences.  A bouquet of fresh flowers 1-800-Flowers Fields of Europe Christmas Bouquet, available at 1-800-Flowers, from $39.99What's nicer than getting a gorgeous bouquet of sweet-smelling flowers sent to your home? Probably only getting to walk by them every day. If you want to send grandma and/or grandpa a bouquet of something fresh and beautiful to enjoy, flowers are a thoughtful option that can typically be delivered within days of purchasing. A DNA test that lets them delve into family history ancestryDNA AncestryDNA Genetic Test, available at Ancestry, $59Your grandparents are the origins and default architects of much of your life, and AncestryDNA gives them — and you — the chance to explore and appreciate that history. They'll be able to see their heritage and genetic breakdown (aka 50% Irish, 30% Italian, and so on) and can build family trees complete with historical documents and censuses already on the site. If they're interested in history, they'll love this. A soothing bubble bath from a well-loved brand Amazon L'Occitane Relaxing & Foaming Lavender Bubble Bath, available at Amazon, $39This cult-favorite lavender-scented bubble bath from L'Occitane is a great way to relax, and it takes a while to get through.  Gifts for grandparents under $75 A luxe holiday candle that comes in a hand-blown glass container they can reuse Bloomingdale's LAFCO Feu de Bois Ski House Candle, available at Bloomingdales, $65LAFCO candles are over $60 for a reason; they smell incredible, they're made simply from soy with a cotton wick, and the container is hand-blown glass that can be washed and used as a centerpiece for everything from candy to plants. This size has a 90-hour burn time. A photo book or photo calendar you curated for them of their favorite people and places Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book, available at Artifact Uprising, from $62Grandparents are often the gatekeepers to the most involved, best-kept baby books. School pictures, spelling tests, and holidays spent with them are all preserved with the genuine, all-encompassing interest reserved only for grandparents. Rarely, however, do we get to do the same for them. Set aside some time and curate a photo book for them from Artifact Uprising with pictures of their favorite places, people, and memories.Or, if you think they'll use it more, a calendar of you, them, your parents, and their grandkids — primed for a happy exhibition the next time their friends come over. A monthly sampling of some of the tastiest products from around the country Mouth/Instagram Best of Mouth Subscription, available at Mouth, from $54/monthFoodies will love the chance to test small-batch, locally made products from around the country. Mouth sources and curates subscription boxes of their favorites, which they'll receive each month. An Echo Dot that's easy to use and extremely helpful Amazon 4th Generation Echo Dot, available at Amazon, $59.99If your grandparents aren't extremely techy, the Echo Dot is an especially good starter gift. It maximizes convenience, requires little interaction after setup, and takes up minimal space. They can easily ask Alexa for recipes, the weather, the news, and to control things like the lights. You could also grab a few accompanying smart bulbs if they either hate getting up to turn them off or if their knees tend to bother them. Stick around to set it up, and show them a few of the coolest features. Fresh coffee beans from all over the world delivered to their door Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Subscription or Gift Set, available at Atlas Coffee Club, from $60Atlas Coffee sends them fresh beans from across the globe to their door. They'll learn about its flavor profile, tasting notes, suggested brewing methods, a little history lesson in its origins — and each comes in a bag with festive packaging. If they've been coffee buffs for a while — or just love having a morning cup — they'll appreciate both the thought and opportunity to learn something new.  Tea from around the world Uncommon Goods Tea From Around the World Set, $55If your grandparents prefer tea over coffee, this set will let them sample some of the best flavors from across the globe. Gifts for under $100 A pair of comfortable sneakers Allbirds Shop all Allbirds sneakers hereEveryone deserves comfortable sneakers and if your grandparents aren't familiar with Allbirds, it's time to get them up to speed. The brand makes footwear using sustainable materials like merino wool, recycled trees, sugarcane, and natural rubber. Check out all of our reviews on Allbirds sneakers to choose the best pair for them. A Jo Malone diffuser that smells amazing and looks good in a home Nordstrom Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Scent Diffuser, available at Nordstrom, $85A diffuser is like the modern take on potpourri, and Jo Malone makes some incredibly good scents. They'll recognize the brand, like the smell, and the clean, minimalist glass container means they won't only bring this out when they know you're coming over. Warm, fluffy slippers they'll love wearing Nordstrom UGG Dakota Water Resistant Slipper, available at Nordstrom, $100Make sure grandma's feet are kept cozy year-round in these plush UGG slippers with rubber soles for indoor or outdoor use.  Long-distance twin lamps that light up when one of you touches it Uncommon Goods Long Distance Touch Lamp, available at Uncommon Goods, from $85These sentimental long-distance lamps are perfect for grandkids that live far away from their grandparents. Keep one in your home and one at your grandparents' home, and whenever you touch it, their lamp will light up too. It's a simple and instantaneous way to say "I love you!" from across the country. A gift subscription to a cool wine service they're not likely to already use Vinebox Shop all Vinebox collections here.Vinebox gifts let the recipient try nine of the best wines of the moment every quarter. Their delivery will include nine vials portioned to be full glasses, with each selected based on their personal tastes and preferences. They'll also get a credit for either $15 or $30 to use on full bottles.  Gifts for grandparents under $200 A vintage-style record player Amazon Electrohome Kingston 7-in-1 Vinyl Record Player, $199.99Your grandparents probably have a massive collection of records but an outdated record player. With the Kingston 7-in-1, they'll get the vintage feel of old-school record players with additional modern features like Bluetooth, aux, and the ability to turn vinyl into mp3s. The latest Apple AirPods Apple Apple AirPods 3rd Gen, $179Bluetooth headphones always make a great gift for anyone with a smartphone. If grandma and grandpa are iPhone users, AirPods are the best choice because they're incredibly easy to pair and they're easy to carry. A vintage-inspired knit sweater Todd Snyder L.L.Bean x Todd Snyder Bear Sweater, $199Remember all those wonderful knit sweaters you got as gifts over the years? Now it's time to pay it back with a similar gift. Todd Snyder's collaboration with L.L.Bean features several vintage-inspired sweaters that will leave your grandparents feeling nostalgic.  Aura Aura Carver Digital Picture Frame, $169, available at AuraSet up a digital picture frame at Grandma and Grandpa's house and they'll be able to view all of their favorite images from one device. An e-reader with a no-glare screen The Kindle Paperwhite's new, warmer backlight. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, available at Amazon, $139.99If your grandparents love to read, the first device you should gift is probably the go-anywhere, read-anything Paperwhite. Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof and has a no-glare screen even in direct sunlight — great for long days spent on the porch or at the beach.  A new gadget that lets them preserve wine for years by never technically uncorking it Coravin Coravin Model Two Wine Preservation System, available at Bloomingdale's, $149.95Coravin allows you to pour a glass of wine without ever uncorking the bottle, so you don't have to worry about oxidation ruining the wine. If your grandparents are opening it just for a glass, their wine will stay preserved over weeks, months, and years if they like. It also gives them greater freedom; there's no need to conserve by sharing a bottle, so they can pick their own favorite every time.  A comfortable weighted blanket for better rest Gravity Blankets Gravity Blankets, starting at $195Give your grandparents better rest for the holidays with a cult-favorite weighted blanket with a removable cover. By mimicking DPTS (deep pressure touch stimulation), weighted blankets help us calm down, fall asleep faster, stay asleep better and for longer, and feel more rested when we wake up. A tiny smart garden that they can grow herbs in easily and year-round Amazon Click and Grow Smart Garden, available at Click and Grow, $149.96If your grandparents love gardening or cooking, this kitchen garden is great for fresh herbs and year-round gardening and comes with pods for mini tomato, basil, and green lettuce. Not all climates and spaces are hospitable to herbs, but Click and Grow maintains one that is. It's low-maintenance so there's not a ton of involvement with tech or even much watering, and they're not likely to already have one.  Luxury gifts for grandparents A Nespresso that makes everything from a latte to a cappuccino just the way they like it - and from the comfort of home Nespresso Nespresso Lattissima One, available at Amazon, $449.90This is a pricey gift, but one that makes pretty amazing coffee without much more involvement than dropping a pod into the machine. They can make everything from delicious cappuccinos to lattes right at home, which is probably why it was listed as one of Oprah's Favorite Things in 2018. A high-end shaver for Grandpa Braun Braun Series 9 Pro, $329.99As Braun's most advanced shaver ever, the Series 9 Pro will pro will give Grandpa the best shave he's ever had. A smart frame that allows them to look through photos The Grommet Smart Connected Picture Frame, available at The Grommet, $299If they're tech-savvy, get them a smart picture frame that cycles through family photos from their digital albums or phone. You can also use a built-in family sharing feature to have other people send pictures directly to their frame. A custom painting of their furry best friend Uncommon Goods Custom Painterly Pet Portraits, available at Uncommon Goods, from $250Make sure this is their decor style before committing to it, but a portrait of their pet is probably one of the sweetest and most thoughtful gestures. It's unique, handmade, and pays homage to the little fur-mop that loves lounging in an adjacent sun patch on the couch every day. Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

The Mijente organizer Cinthya Rodriguez says the US border is a "testing ground" for more widespread expansions of government surveillance. The US-Mexico border wall near Sasabe, Arizona. Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press Mijente, Just Futures Law, and the No Border Wall Coalition highlight how CBP uses digital tools. A new report says CBP relies on cameras, drones, and license-plate-reading tech to monitor migrants. ICE also keeps biometric information like face, iris, fingerprint, and voice data, a report said. US Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement use phone hacking, license-plate scanning, iris recognition, and a host of other surveillance technology to monitor the US border, according to a report released on Thursday by immigrant-rights groups. "The Deadly Digital Border Wall," compiled by Mijente, Just Futures Law, and the No Border Wall Coalition, doesn't identify every piece of software and hardware the agencies use. One example is Raven, short for Repository for Analytics in a Virtualized Environment, a data-mining and analytics tool ICE is developing. But it does provide an overview of some of the key technologies that ICE and CBP rely on.Cinthya Rodriguez, a Mijente organizer, said the US border was a "testing ground" for more widespread expansions of government surveillance."We remain steadfast in our #NoTechForICE demand and call on the Biden administration to follow up on promises made to immigrant communities with meaningful action," she added.Here are the top 14 border-surveillance technologies, according to the report:Automated license-plate recognitionThis is a camera system that takes pictures of car license plates as they pass by and logs other relevant information like date, time, and place. Immigration agencies install these cameras at and near borders. CBP pays Motorola Solutions for it, while ICE pays Vigilant Solutions.Integrated fixed towersAlong the US-Mexico border, CBP operates tall towers designed to spot people from almost 10 miles away. The agency has paid the Israeli military contractor Elbit Systems to install these structures.Remote video surveillanceThese surveillance towers are slightly smaller and movable. General Dynamics won a $177 million contract for installing these in 2013. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2023.Mobile video-surveillance systemThis consists of a telescope, a laser light, a thermal-imaging device, and a video system that's attached to the back of a truck, which itself is equipped with geospatial analytics. Since 2015, Tactical Micro has been providing CBP with dozens of the systems, and PureTech Systems has been providing the in-vehicle geospatial analytics.Autonomous surveillance towersCBP uses these towers to scan the landscape for people. Anduril has been providing them since 2018. They come equipped with software designed to distinguish people from animals and store images of human faces.DronesCBP has used large and small drones to surveil remote areas of land, and even the sea, for evidence of migrants. General Atomics, AeroVironment, FLIR Systems, Lockheed Martin, and Anduril have all provided CBP with surveillance drones.E3 portalThis software sends files of fingerprint scans, pictures of faces, and iris images - captured by separate pieces of hardware - to both "ICE's case management system for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and to the DHS-wide IDENT database," the report said. According to the Department Homeland Security, the automated biometric identification system stores "260 million unique identities and processes more than 350,000 biometric transactions per day."HART biometric databaseAccording to the report, the Homeland Advanced Recognition Technology (HART) System is a database of biometric data such as face images, DNA profiles, iris scans, fingerprint scans, and audio files, called "voice prints," that's hosted on Amazon Web Services and being developed by Northrop Grumman. It will eventually "replace the automated biometric identification system (IDENT) currently used by DHS," the report said.Biometric facial comparisonThis is a face-matching tool that CBP uses at the US border and entry ports like airports. A camera takes a picture of a traveler and compares it with a passport or other form of ID. CBP says it stores comparison photos of US citizens in IDENT for 15 years.CBP One applicationThis is a mobile app on which Border Patrol agents can collect biometric and other personal information on migrants and asylum seekers. Data that can be logged in to the app includes phone numbers, employment and family information, marital status, people traveling together, permanent address abroad, and destination in the US, as well as a photograph to be run through CBP biometric records, the report said.Mobile-phone hackingUsing services from the Israeli company Cellebrite, Canada's Magnet Forensics, and the US company Grayshift, CBP can search mobile phones and other devices for information about a person. Grayshift and Cellebrite can sometimes unlock phones. US border agents don't need warrants to search people's devices, according to a 2019 court ruling, and border agents searched more than 40,000 devices in 2019, Reuters reported.Vehicle forensic kitsThese are pieces of software designed to extract personal information stored in cars, including call logs and navigation histories. CBP has paid Berla Corp., which partnered with the Swedish mobile-forensics company MSAB, for this service.Venntel location trackingVenntel, a subsidiary of the data broker Gravy Analytics, sells licenses to CBP and other DHS entities that allow them to use consumer cellphone data to track migrants and asylum seekers. A DHS document leaked to BuzzFeed News said it was possible to "combine" the consumer location data "with other information and analysis to identify an individual user."Intelligent computer-assisted detectionICAD is a system of underground sensors and cameras that "detects the presence or movement of individuals" and sends data back to CBP. Border Patrol agents then seek out the people captured on ICAD, ask these people for their biographic data, and store this information, according to the report.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

These are the best tech gifts for moms. Whether mom is a bookworm, a fitness fanatic, or a shutterbug, we have a gift for them this holiday season. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. The Fitbit Inspire 2 is a nice, simple, fitness tracker that's perfect for any mom. Fitbit The best tech gifts for moms are those that upgrade their lives in simple ways. We've found some of the best tech gifts for moms that are both useful and fun. For more gift ideas, check out all of our gift guides to find something for everyone on your list. A go-to tech device can help make life more convenient and entertaining, which is why gadgets make such great gifts for just about anyone, including moms. We're now in the midst of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping season, so gift hunting is about to ramp back up.Whether the mom in your life is a huge bookworm, a fitness buff, or a new mother who wants the best for their child, we've got a great tech gift for any mom in our guide. Our list includes tech gifts that fit a variety of budgets from under $10 to $100 or more, so there should be something for everyone. A fun grip for her phone PopSocket Shop all PopSockets grips for $8 and upWe spend a lot of time watching video on our smartphone or using it as a GPS while driving, and PopSocket grips have proven out to be the absolute best solution for both. PopSockets has hundreds of fun phone grips in all kinds of materials, colors, and patterns.In addition to style points, PopSocket grips make it easier to hold a large phone comfortably, giving a better grip while walking and commuting on public transit. These grips remain among the best iPhone accessories we've tried. The newest PopSockets also support Apple's MagSafe lineup of magnetic accessories for iPhone 12 and up. Apple's new tracking accessory to help mom from losing her things Lisa Eadicicco/Insider Apple AirTag, available at Apple, $29 (additional case required for keyrings)If you're a mom yourself (or are partnered with one), then you know the phrase "mom brain" all too well. With so many things to keep track of, it's only natural for mom to lose sight of at least one of those things — like their keys or purse. Apple's answer to that, AirTags, is a surprisingly affordable solution for how effective it is, offering not only direct navigation to lost items (with an iPhone 11 or newer) within range but also tracking worldwide using Apple's existing FindMy network. A portable noise machine to keep the little one fast asleep Amazon Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine, available at Amazon, $26.99During a recent test, our own senior reporter (and newly-minted father) Antonio Villas-Boas found this portable noise machine to be particularly useful in several applications. This affordable little gadget has kept his little one sleeping in their stroller while on walks, and it even came in handy during a nighttime power outage to keep bedtime going uninterrupted. For a new mom, or even for a new grandmother, this little peacekeeper will be a welcome gift. The most affordable home security solution around to give her peace of mind Avery Hartmans/Business Insider Wyze home security cameras, available at Home Depot, starting at $25For the mom that's trying to keep their family safe without spending a fortune, a Wyze home security camera is a fine way to get her started. Wyze offers both indoor and outdoor security cameras at an incredible price: starting at just $39 for indoor cameras. Sure, these don't have the bells and whistles of premium cameras, but if all they need is some peace of mind, this is a fine way to get any mom started. One of the best sous vide machines around for expertly cooked meats Amazon Breville Joule Sous Vide (Stainless Steel), available at Amazon, $249.00Moms love a perfectly cooked steak just as much as the next person, so a sous vide machine may well be in order for the mother in your life. Sous vide is a style of cooking that uses heated water to evenly cook meat that's inside of a vacuum sealed bag, practically guaranteeing you won't overcook it. That's rather convenient for mothers out there that — contrary to the stereotype — aren't amazing cooks.Insider Reviews' Brandt Ranj reviewed the ChefSteps (also known as Breville) Joule portable sous vide machine and had much praise for it. Ranj says that it "lets me cook steaks as perfectly as a professional chef" and has dubbed it "one of my favorite kitchen tools." When you put it that way, $200 to cook steaks like Gordon Ramsey isn't a bad deal at all. A Tile Bluetooth tracker for Android users Tile Tile Pro 2-Pack Bundle with one year of Tile Premium, available at Tile, $59.99Moms have lots of things to keep track of in their lives, and it can be easy to, you know, lose track. This is when Tile Bluetooth trackers are handy, particularly for moms using Android phones. (For moms using iPhone, we suggest going with Apple's AirTag trackers instead.) The most useful feature of these little pucks? An audible chirp that the user can activate to locate the attached item with sound.This bundle also comes with one year's subscription to Tile Premium, which unlocks a "Smart Alerts" feature that lets the trackers audibly notify you when leaving their Bluetooth connectivity range. The plan also provides annual battery replacements among other features, normally costing $29.99 annually. The best tablet for reading, checking email, and watching Netflix on a bigger screen Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider Apple iPad, available from Apple, $329Even though most of us are attached to our phones, scrolling through email, reading the news, and watching YouTube on a screen that's five or six inches is less than ideal. Apple's entry-level $329 iPad — updated once again for 2021 with the A13 Bionic processor — is a great choice for anyone in search of a general-purpose tablet. Apple's iPad continues to feature a sharp and colorful screen, long battery life, and solid performance for those who want something that's more portable than a laptop but bigger than a phone. A keyboard case to make her iPad feel more like a laptop Amazon Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case, available on Amazon, $145.08If your mom already has an iPad, or perhaps maybe they're getting one as a gift from someone, a keyboard case is a great addition that will enable them to get much more use out of it. Logitech has a wide variety of keyboard accessories and cases, including the Logitech Combo Touch, which is compatible with the 7th and 8th generation iPad. This model includes a spacious keyboard and trackpad and connects through Apple's smart connector, which means no fiddling with Bluetooth. A beautiful wireless charger Courant Courant wireless chargers, available at Courant, from $40Courant has a wide range of leather-clad wireless chargers and wireless charging battery packs that are as beautiful as they are useful. Mom can charge her phone, AirPods, and other gadgets with wireless charging on these pads quickly and easily. We really love the catch-all that also has a space for her wallet, keys, jewelry, and other small items. We've used Courant's chargers in our own homes and office, and they are reliable, easy to use, and super attractive to look at. A streaming player to make her TV smart Roku Roku Express 4K+ Streaming Media Player, available at Roku, $39.99Roku's latest streaming box will let mom access dozens of streaming TV and movie services, like Netflix, Hulu, and more. The streaming player comes with a special remote that features voice control and search, which is incredibly useful.The Express 4K+ is also an affordable gift that supports the latest visual standards, giving the mom in your life a massive entertainment upgrade for cheap. This could make gifting on a budget deceptively luxurious for your lucky recipient, or make for a great addition to an assortment of gifts for mom. A hydroponic garden AeroGarden AeroGarden Harvest, available at AeroGarden, $99.95Who doesn't love fresh herbs, tomatoes, and produce? AeroGraden's easy-to-use hydroponic gardens make a great gift for moms who want to grow some fresh food indoors. The Harvest has LED lights that turn on and off each day automatically to ensure that the included seed pods get all the light they need to grow. The device also alerts you when it's time to add fresh water or plant food, making it super easy to grow herbs or produce at home. Moms can grow fresh herbs, tomatoes, lettuce, and more. We've tried it to great success! A pair of blue-light-blocking glasses Felix Gray Shop all glasses at Felix Gray for $95 and upThese days, we all spend a lot of time looking at screens that display harsh blue light, which can lead to eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns. Luckily, Felix Gray makes incredible blue-light-blocking glasses for people who don't need glasses at all, as well as those who need reading or prescription glasses.The company uses special lenses that filter out blue light. Its regular pairs look like normal glasses without any visible yellow tint, but the special sleep glasses have a yellow cast to their lenses. However, they block even more blue light, making them ideal for nighttime reading. We've tried Felix Gray's glasses and we love them — we think Mom will, too. A cool device to turn old photo negatives and slides into digital photos Kodak Kodak Mobile Film Scanner, available at B&H Photo and Amazon, $35If your mom is anything like mine, she's got tons of old photos, negatives, and slides lying around from the days of physical photography. You can help her digitize her old negatives and slides with this nifty device from Kodak. Using her phone's camera and an app, she can capture the images stored on negatives and slides and get them onto her phone as normal digital pictures. A customizable phone case Casetify Casetify Custom Case, available at Casetify, from $55Casetify's easy to use online tool lets you turn your mom's favorite photos into a custom iPhone or Samsung smartphone case. Talk about a customizable gift with practical use.You can customize more than just the colors, images, or even photos – even the case's rigidity or ruggedness can be adjusted based on the case you're choosing. Several of Casetify's materials options are available, and some prioritize style over strong protection. A smart picture frame Aura Aura Mason Smart Picture Frame, available at Best Buy, $199.99Moms love nothing more than looking at pictures of their children. The Aura Mason smart picture frame lets you send Mom new photos to look at all the time. An Amazon Echo Show for video calls Amazon Amazon Echo Show 5 (2021), available on Amazon, $84.99If your mom or mother-in-law doesn't own a smartphone, that makes getting "face time" with her grandkids rather difficult. Luckily, Amazon's smart displays offer a video calling function, bringing that function into their home cheaply and easily.For 2021, Amazon has updated its Echo Show 5 with a 2-megapixel camera – a 100% improvement – for even better video calls than before. It will also cost less on your mom's energy bill with a new low-power mode when it's not in use. One of the best smartwatches to date Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider Apple Watch SE, available at Best Buy, $279Some moms are total tech geeks, and there's nothing more appealing to a geek than a nice looking smartwatch. If Mom is an iPhone user, get her an Apple Watch SE. It's the new more affordable smartwatch from Apple, and it has all the features she'll need. A watch that looks like a traditional timepiece, but has a lot of smarts Withings Withings Steel HR, available at Amazon and Withings for $179.95If your mom isn't crazy about smartwatches with screens, but she still wants a watch that has some smart features, she'll love the Withings Steel HR. It looks like a normal watch, but it has a heart rate monitor and other sensors to track activity and sleep. The Steel HR also buzzes with notifications from select apps. The watch has a tiny screen at 12 o'clock, so when she presses the button on the side, she can see the date, time, her metrics, and incoming notifications. A smart mug that keeps her drink the perfect temperature Ember Ember Mug 2, available at Apple, $129.99Not all tech has to be super techy. Ember's smart mug is a great gift for moms who love to drink piping hot tea, coffee, or other hot drinks. The ceramic mug syncs with an app on her phone to show how much she has drunk from the mug and also the preferred temperature of her drinks. The mug comes with a coaster that can reheat her drink and keep it at the optimal temperature. We tried this mug and we loved it. The gift of peace and quiet with top-of-the-line noise-cancelling headphones Best Buy Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones, available at Best Buy, $329It's more than likely that the mother in your life gets called upon … a lot. For those times when they just need some peace and quiet from the constant noise, they'll appreciate your gift of Bose QuietComfort 45 wireless noise-cancelling headphones. Yes, they're rather expensive, but they're designed to last for years and stand in for almost every use case for headphones, particularly for folks that focus on the audio of their favorite movies and TV shows. For mothers that commute on public transit or travel often, these will come in plenty handy. A long charging cable for her phone Native Union Lightning Native Union Night Cable, available at Amazon, $24.95USB-C Native Union Night Cable, available at Amazon, $34.99One of the most frustrating things is losing your only charging cable for your phone. Everyone can use an extra charging cable, and having a long one like Native Union's Night Cable is a great idea. The cable is 10-feet long, so Mom won't have to struggle with a short cable anymore. It also has a weighted knot that can be moved up and down the cable to provide enough ballast to keep the cable and the phone it's charging in place. An excellent ebook reader Guillermo Garszon/Business Insider Amazon Kindle E-reader, available at Amazon, $89.99If the mother in your life is a diehard bookworm, then they might appreciate going digital – especially if their bookcase is starting to bow from the weight of their growing collection. The latest Kindle is also ideal for the mothers out there that commute or travel a lot, saving lots of space The base-level model is the best Kindle e-reader for buyers on a budget. We find the ad-supported version ($89.99) to be not as intrusive with the ads as it may seem. Of course, the Kindle can hold thousands of ebooks, and now features a front light. A wireless photo printer for making instant memories Amazon HP Sprocket Portable 2 x 3-inch Instant Photo Printer, available at Amazon, $127.99Does the mom in your life miss the old days of Polaroids at the party? Bring back those memories and help them make some new ones with a wireless photo printer to print selfies and other shots from their smartphone.The Sprocket from HP prints 2 x 3-inch photos using Zink technology contained in each film print to bring out the picture's color. Sprocket can print photos in portrait or landscape layouts. Just note that HP's special photo paper is required to use Sprocket, which costs an additional $25 per 50 sheets. A smart baby monitor The Nanit Plus is a smart video baby monitor that offers sleep tracking and insights Hillary Grigonis/Business Insider Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor, available at Nanit, $299If you're shopping for a new mom, there is an endless selection of baby products you can get her and her baby. One of the most high-tech and pricey purchases for new parents is a nice video baby monitor.The now-named Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor (formerly known as Nanit Plus) is one of our favorites because it's a system that learns a baby's movement patterns and sleep trends and lets the parents know when things seem off. It gives Mom and Dad a nice birds-eye view of the baby in its crib, so both parents can see the baby clearly in the app. An audiobook subscription that gives back to local booksellers Libro.fm Libro.fm three-month gift subscription, available at Libro.fm, $45For the mom in your life that prefers not to read or can't seem to find the time, give them a try at audiobooks with Libro.fm. Sure, you could gift them an Audible subscription like everyone else has, but this service is considered a social purpose corporation, or SPC, which means it pursues social goals in addition to financial goals as part of its business model, even when the two may be at odds. The result is several projects designed to benefit local booksellers, which helps give peace of mind. A slim fitness tracker Fitbit Fitbit Inspire 2, available at Best Buy, $99.95If the mom in your life wants to stay fit or get fit, the Fitbit Inspire 2 tracker is a great option. It's a simple fitness-focused tracker with an easy-to-use app that makes it fun for moms to see their activity goals and workout metrics. A pair of wireless earbuds that just work Hollis Johnson/Business Insider Apple Airpods (2nd Gen), available at Target and Amazon, from $129.99The problem with most wireless headphones is that they're hard to use: Bluetooth pairing is a pain, they disconnect from the phone, or they have too many controls. Apple's AirPods are the easiest wireless earbuds to use with an iPhone, making them perfect for moms (and their tech support staff — i.e. their kids) everywhere. A nifty handbag light Amazon Wasserstein Handbag Light 1-pack, available at Amazon, $13Mom's purse is a cluttered abyss that's piled with receipts, tchotchkes, keys — you name it. Make her search easier with this motion-activated light, which can be conveniently clipped on the inside of her bag. A bluetooth shower speaker Amazon SoundBot Water Proof Bluetooth Speaker, available at Amazon, from $14.99To the family, she's super-mom — but behind the scenes, she's an enterprising singer who belts out show tunes in the shower (even with a meager vocal range). It's a fruitful endeavor that assuages her day-to-day stress.The least you can do is get her this hassle-free, waterproof speaker that's compatible with all Bluetooth devices. Post-shower, she'll feel zen enough to opt for McDonald's drive-thru over last night's leftovers; and the entire household will feel grateful.  Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

We tested 30 vacs to determine which robot vacuums work best for carpet, hardwood, pets, and more. Here are the best robot vacuums in 2021. Alyssa Powell/Insider A good robot vacuum cleans floors with little work from you, clearing debris with a button push. We tested 30 robot vacuums and consulted three experts to find the best options for different needs. The iRobot Roomba i3+ is the best robot vac; it cleans well and features a self-emptying dock. Find out more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews home products. A robot vacuum will make the small but time-consuming task of vacuuming a little easier. However, you'll want one that's powerful and relatively quiet and doesn't require constant attention. I've tested 30 robot vacuums to find the best ones and consulted health experts and engineers on how to use them properly. A robot vac needs maintenance like any other small appliance. While using it takes just a press of a button, all our experts stressed the importance of regularly cleaning brushes and filters, and running the vac when no one is in the room to keep the indoor air quality clean and avoid resuspended particles. We get into details over here. I tested each robot vac's cleaning abilities along with its extra features and app. You can find the details of how we tested, what else we recommend, how to shop for a robot vacuum, and more at the end of our guide.Here are the best robot vacuums in 2021Best robot vacuum overall: iRobot Roomba i3+ Robot VacuumBest budget robot vacuum: Eufy RoboVac 15C Max Robot VacuumBest robot vacuum with a mop: Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI Robot VacuumBest robot vacuum for hardwood floors: iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot VacuumBest robot vacuum for pet hair: Bissell SpinWave Robot VacuumTable of Contents: Masthead Sticky Best robot vacuum overall James Brains/Insider With its automatic dirt disposal, strong suction, and large main brushes, the iRobot Roomba i3+ Robot Vacuum is an excellent, low-maintenance solution for any home.Robot vacuum size: 13.34" x 13.26" x 3.63"Main brush length: two brushes, each 6.75"Dust bin capacity: 380 mLBattery life (per manufacturer): 75 minutesWarranty: One year parts and laborFeatures: Wi-Fi app connectivity (available for iOS and Android), compatible with Alexa and Google Home, schedulingExtras: Auto-empty station, two disposable dust bags, extra air filterPros: Excellent performance on carpeting, cleans well on hardwood, pairs with the app and Alexa, comes with an automatic dirt disposal base, doesn't get stuck easilyCons: Loud, virtual wall barriers cost extra, not impressive in corners The iRobot Roomba i3+ Robot Vacuum is iRobot's most affordable option that features automatic dirt disposal, which empties the vac's dustbin automatically. You just replace the disposable dust bag every month or two.  In our carpet tests, the i3+ picked up all of the coffee grounds, kitty litter, and pet hairs we laid out and left behind only about 5% of the flour — the best performance of all the robot vacs we tested. In corners, it came within an inch of the wall but left behind about half the flour.It performed better on hardwood floors, picking up all of the coffee grounds and pet hair, and only left behind 5% of the kitty litter and about 10% of the flour. The robot vac didn't get stuck during its cleaning sessions.Whereas some robot vacuums sense carpeting and boost suction, the i3+ provides consistently strong suction, and when it detects excess dirt, it automatically performs multiple passes. Setup is a breeze, only taking about 10 minutes, including connecting to the user-friendly app. Unfortunately, the app doesn't allow you to set up no-go zones, so you must buy virtual wall barriers. The barriers work as advertised, but at around $40 each, I prefer using everyday household objects to keep the Roomba out of areas I want to protect.The other negative with the i3+ is how loud it is. My sound meter recorded 68 dB, and you can't adjust the suction power for a quieter clean. Best budget robot vacuum Amazon With its sub-$200 price, the Eufy RoboVac 15C Max Robot Vacuum offers an impressive suite of features, including smart connectivity, and performs well picking up most debris on carpeting and hardwood.Robot vacuum size: 12.75" x 12.75" x 2.85"Main brush length: 5.5"Dust bin capacity: 600 mLBattery life: 100 minutesWarranty: One yearFeatures: Wi-Fi app connectivity (available for iOS and Android), compatible with Alexa and Google Home, schedulingExtras: Extra side brushes, a remote control, extra air filter, cleaning toolPros: Good performance on carpeting and hardwood, doesn't get stuck easily, quiet, supported by an app, Alexa and Google Assistant compatible, fits into small spacesCons: Did poorly in corner cleaning tests and picking up flour on carpeting, app doesn't let you set no-go zonesOf the vacuums that cost under $250, the Eufy RoboVac 15C Max Robot Vacuum had the best overall performance in our tests.It picked up all of the coffee grounds, kitty litter, and pet hair we laid out on carpeting and hardwood. It had a more challenging time with flour, leaving 10% of the flour on hardwood and a disappointing 40% of the flour on the carpeting.Another area where the unit showed poor performance was in corners. It only came within about 3 inches of the hardwood corner, and though it came within an inch of the carpeted corner, it didn't pick up much of the flour.On the plus side, the RoboVac 15C Max only got stuck during its cleaning cycles about a quarter of the time, which is impressive in my messy home. Also, it's the quietest of the units we tested, registering 60 decibels on its highest suction power.Beyond quickly testing to make sure it worked, I didn't use the controller because the vacuum pairs with your phone and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. Unfortunately, the app (available for iOS and Android) doesn't allow you to set up no-go zones or virtual barriers.Additionally, setup and connecting to the app were seamless experiences, taking a total of 10 minutes. The vacuum also has a small footprint so it can squeeze into tight spaces. Best robot vacuum with a mop James Brains/Insider The Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo Pro Mopping System thoroughly cleans floors as opposed to pushing a wet cloth around. When paired with the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI Robot Vacuum, the two make easy work of time-consuming chores.  Robot vacuum size: 13.7" x 13.7" x 3.6"Main brush length: 6.25"Dust bin capacity: 600 mL (estimated)Battery life (per manufacturer): 3 hoursWarranty: One yearFeatures: Wi-Fi app connectivity (available for iOS and Android), compatible with Alexa and Google Home, scheduling, virtual no-go zones, zoned cleaning, HD video surveillanceExtras: Adjustable flow water tank, mop cloths and mounting plate, extra side brushes, extra sponge filter, extra air filter, cleaning tool, auto-empty station (sold separately), scrubbing mop system (sold separately)Pros: Excellent performance on carpeting and hardwood, automatically empties the dustbin, HD video surveillance, impressive deep-cleaning mop attachment, quiet operationCons: Got stuck on the threshold in our tests, doesn't get deep into cornersThe Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo Pro Mopping System attachment is the best mopping system I've tested. The 480-vibrations-per-minute scrubbing motion offers a deep clean. It made the powerful Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI Robot Vacuum even better. The 240mL water tank was large enough to complete at least two passes over the 500-square-foot test floor. With the app, you can choose from four water-flow levels to reach a balance of moistness and quick drying and two mopping patterns. The deep scrubbing option provides thorough cleaning, and the quick scrubbing is for routine mopping. And, I appreciated that it automatically avoids carpeting.As for the robot vac itself, the Ozmo T8 AIVI has HD video and a microphone so you can watch your pets or check for open windows and doors from your phone. I didn't find the home surveillance features particularly useful, but they could be handy if you're concerned about security. The more helpful feature is the auto-empty station that automatically empties the dustbin after cleaning sessions. You just replace the disposable pouch every month or two. The Ozmo T8 AIVI was among the best at removing the debris types we tested on carpeting and hardwood. Plus, it remains relatively quiet at just 67 dB on the highest cleaning setting and 58 dB on Quiet mode. However, the vac consistently got stuck on a 1-inch lip between rooms. It also wasn't able to come within 2 inches of corners.The setup was seamless. I plugged in the dock to charge the vacuum, connected the app, updated the firmware, and set a schedule for cleaning. After two cleanings, the vac created a map of my layout so I could set no-go zones to keep the T8 AIVI away from sensitive areas.Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI Robot Vacuum Best robot vacuum for hardwood floors James Brains/Insider The D-shaped iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum did the best in our hardwood floor tests and features a self-emptying dustbin, an impressive app that lets you set no-go zones, and large main brushes that pick up debris on the first pass.Robot vacuum size: 12.25" x 12.25" x 3.5"Main brush length: two brushes, each 9.5"Dust bin capacity: 380 mLBattery life (per manufacturer): 2 hoursWarranty: One year parts and laborFeatures: Wi-Fi app connectivity (available for iOS and Android), compatible with Alexa and Google Home, scheduling, virtual no-go zones, zoned cleaningExtras: Auto-empty station, two disposable dust bags, extra side brush, extra air filter, cleaning toolPros: Cleans well on hardwood flooring, good performance on carpeting, rarely gets stuck, comes with a charging dock that empties the dustbin, large main brushes, has a helpful app with virtual no-go zonesCons: Loud, poor performance in carpeted cornersAs iRobot's top-of-the-line model, the Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum is packed with features. It empties itself and is supported by an app that allows you to schedule cleanings effortlessly, set no-go zones, and customize your cleaning experience. You can even pair it with the iRobot Braava Jet M6 (sold separately) to mop after it finishes its vacuum cycle.In testing, the Roomba s9+ performed the best of any robot vac on hardwood flooring. After the cleaning cycle, there was only a trace of flour left. Its D-shaped design came within an inch and a half of the corner, picking up everything it could reach. The performance was still solid on carpeting with only about 10% of the flour left, 5% of the kitty litter, and no coffee grounds or pet hairs to be found after testing. The unit didn't get stuck in our testing area either. At 77 dB (about as loud as a busy city street) on high suction power, the s9+ was by far the loudest model we tested, and even in quiet mode, the vacuum is not unnoticeable. Additionally, the vac got within an inch of the carpeted corner. But it left behind about 70% of the flour, which suggests it doesn't do as well picking up fine debris on carpeting, especially in areas the main brushes have trouble reaching.Installation was easy, but it took about 25 minutes. I spent most of that time installing firmware updates after connecting to the app. Best robot vacuum for pet hair James Brains/Insider The Bissell SpinWave Robot Vacuum picked up all the pet hair on carpet in our tests and has a great assortment of mop attachments and accessories. The company is also committed to helping homeless pets and helps them find loving homes. Robot vacuum size: 12.25" x 12.25" x 3.25"Main brush length: 5.75"Dust bin capacity: 400 mLBattery life (per manufacturer): 130 minutesWarranty: One year limitedFeatures: Wi-Fi app connectivity (available for iOS and Android), schedulingExtras: Water tank with spinning mop pads, extra mop pads, trial-size cleaning formula,  damp-proof mat, extra side brushes, extra air filter, cleaning toolPros: Excellent job on hardwood and corners, picked up all of the pet hair in our tests, great mop attachment and accessories, app connectivity, small size, quiet operationCons: Can't set up no-go zones, gets stuck easilyThe Bissell SpinWave Robot Vacuum is created specifically for pet hair and has a 5.75-inch tangle-resistant main brush, a useful mop attachment, and powerful suction. Specs aside, a portion of each sale also goes to the Bissell Pet Foundation, which is committed to finding loving homes for pets.The Bissell SpinWave picked up all the cat and dog hair we laid out on carpeting and hardwood. Additionally, on the hardwood, it only left a trace of kitty litter and flour. It came within 2 inches in corners and picked up more than 60% of the flour on both the carpet and hardwood.It's also among the quietest vacs we tested – 58 decibels on quiet mode (slightly softer than a normal conversation) and 65 on high suction. If you have particularly skittish pets, the low-decibel output is less likely to startle your fur friends. The vacuum's extras are helpful to any pet parent, including a mop tank attachment, spinning mop pads, and a trial-size bottle of cleaning formula. Plus, you receive a cleaning tool that helps remove hairs from the brushes and clean the filter.In testing, the mop attachment worked seamlessly. You just fill the tank with water and some cleaning formula and attach it to the vacuum in place of the dustbin. The mop pads spin to scrub away stuck-on debris while avoiding carpeting.The SpinWave has a quick setup that takes five minutes, including installing the app and connecting the unit. The most significant limitation is it consistently got stuck on the 1-inch threshold between rooms.  What else we tested James Brains/Insider We've tested 30 robot vacuums and counting; here are the ones that didn't make our top picks.What else we recommend and whyUnder $400Ecovacs U2 Pro: This vac did excellent cleaning hardwood and carpeting and rarely got stuck. The U2 Pro also comes with a mop attachment, which didn't do a good job of cleaning up dried Tang on linoleum. Despite good performance, it couldn't compete with our current top picks and was too expensive for consideration as our best budget pick. Other negatives include loud operation, poor corner cleaning, and boundary strips for setting no-go zones that are sold separately.Proscenic 850T: When it comes to cleaning hard flooring, the 850T is outstanding. It picked up almost all of the debris on hardwood in our testing, got deep into the corners, and got all of the grounds, hair, and litter on the carpet. However, it left 20% of the flour behind, got stuck easily, and ran loudly. Plus, the vac regularly disconnected from the app in my long-term testing and required my attention to run on schedule.Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge: Eufy usually makes more affordable robot vacuums, so at this price, the G30 Edge is considered the company's top-end model. The variety of extras — no-go zone strips, a user-friendly app, and Alexa and Google Home compatibility — make it worth the price, but you'll have to compromise some power. It performed poorly on carpeting and in corners during our testing, and it was in the middle of the pack on hardwood. Despite the underwhelming performance, it remains a good value for the price.Under $600ILife A10: If setting no-go zones is essential to you, the A10 might be a good option. After it maps your house, you can set up virtual barriers in the app. This model also does an outstanding job of cleaning hardwood and carpet. But, there are plenty of cons: The A10 barely picked up any flour in carpeted corners, it runs loudly, and it gets stuck easily.Proscenic M7 Pro: I enjoy the automation afforded by self-empty charging docks, and the M7 Pro has one that works well. You can also set no-go zones in the app. Plus, the vac didn't get stuck easily and performed well on carpeting and hard flooring. Yet, it had trouble cleaning corners and was loud. Plus, with a height of 4 inches, it doesn't fit under low-clearance furniture.iRobot Roomba i7+: The Roomba i7+ was the first robot vacuum to feature an automatic dirt disposal charging dock. Since then, iRobot has introduced two other models that improve upon the i7+. Though this Roomba has great high-end features, its performance doesn't justify its price. It only did a satisfactory job on carpeting and hardwood, and it got stuck relatively often. If you find the i7+ on sale, we recommend picking it up. Otherwise, consider the s9+ or i3+ instead. Read our full review.Under $800Roborock S7: I tested this Roborock with the optional auto-empty dock ($299.99), which looks incredible, is super convenient, and performed flawlessly. The vac itself has powerful suction and avoided getting stuck in our tests. The mop scrubs at up to 3,000 cycles per minute, which translated to one of the top performances in our mop test. However, it didn't do well vacuuming in corners and operated loudly. It came close but did not perform well enough to unseat any of our top picks. Still, if the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI isn't available, this is a worthy substitute.Roborock S6 MaxV: For the most part, Roborock is doing a terrific job in the robot vac space. We recommend the S6 MaxV because of its excellent performance in our carpeting, hardwood, and corner tests. It also has video surveillance, no-go zones, and a useful app. But it's oversized and kept getting stuck on the 1-inch lip leading into the kitchen of our testing course. The S6 MaxV is louder than most vacs we've tested. What we don't recommend and whyEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S: At one time, the RoboVac 11S was our budget pick, but after putting it through our testing alongside other affordable options, we no longer recommend it. The 11S doesn't have WiFi connectivity, which has become standard at every price point in the industry. The vac performed well on carpeting but left a lot of debris behind on hardwood and in corners. You'd be much better off with the Moosoo MT-720. Read our full review.Proscenic M6 Pro: After testing two other Proscenic models I recommend, I was surprised by how poorly the M6 Pro cleans. It left significant debris behind on carpeting and hard flooring and in corners. The vac also got stuck easily and ran loudly. Plus, the app is slow to respond to finger taps and commands. Yeedi K650: The attractive price doesn't make up for the fact that the Yeedi K650 does a poor job cleaning any surface. It also gets stuck often, is noisy, and doesn't have many of the features we like, such as the ability to set no-go zones.iRobot Roomba e5: This appears to be iRobot's attempt to make a budget Roomba, but it's the worst-performing Roomba I've come across in my years of testing. It didn't come with any extras – not even an additional filter. You can schedule it easily in the app, and it's compatible with Alexa and Google Home, but you have to buy virtual wall barriers separately. Also, it gets stuck easily and doesn't clean well on hardwood.  Neato Botvac D7 Connected: We're dropping the Neato Botvac D7 Connected from our guide this time around because it's relatively big, got stuck about half the time during our initial testing, and it only comes with two extra filters and a magnetic barrier, which isn't necessary since you can set no-go zones in the app. We think there are more affordable alternatives that perform better and are more feature-rich in our guide. Read our full review.Eufy RoboVac 11S Max: The 11S Max updates the 11S, but we feel the original 11S is better. If you're spending this much, though, the 15C Max performed much better in our testing. The 11S Max did poorly on carpeting and hardwood and in corners. It also relies on a remote controller rather than app connectivity, which means you need to turn to and keep track of another device.Roborock S5 Max: The S5 Max is loud, big, and it did poorly in corners and on carpeting in our tests.  Our testing methodology James Brains/Insider I've been reviewing vacuums for the past few years, writing numerous buying guides and reviews, so I leaned on my background when developing our testing methodology.I also consulted three experts and took their advice and expertise into consideration — Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at the Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida; Andrea Ferro, Ph.D., a professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Clarkson University and the current president of the American Association for Aerosol Research; and Jill Notini, the Vice President of Communication and Marketing for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.In addition to using each robot vacuum daily for at least several weeks, I tested each for its suction on various types of flooring, including corners, ability to maneuver around obstacles, noise, and special features.Our testing methodology has gotten more comprehensive over the years. For any models that I'd previously tested but didn't have the vacuums on hand anymore, I extrapolated the data as best as possible based on previous testing and manufacturer info. Those vacuums are the iRobot Roomba i7+, Neato Botvac D7 Connected, and Eufy 11S Max and 15C Max. Here's a breakdown of the percentages of each material the top picks cleaned up on each surface in our tests:Surface - MaterialiRobot Roomba i3+Eufy RoboVac 15C MaxEcovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVIiRobot Roomba s9+Bissell  SpinWaveCarpet - Flour95%60%98%90%80%Carpet - Coffee100%100%98%100%100%Carpet - Litter100%100%98%95%98%Carpet - Hair100%100%100%100%100%Carpet corner - Flour50%20%35%30%65%Carpet corner - Proximity1 inch1 inch2 inches1 inch2 inchesHardwood - Flour90%90%95%98%98%Hardwood - Coffee100%100%100%100%100%Hardwood - Litter95%100%98%100%98%Hardwood - Hair100%100%100%100%100%Hardwood corner - Flour80%0%80%85%75%Hardwood corner - Proximity1 inch3 inches2 inches1.5 inches1.5 inchesHere are the main attributes we look for and how we test them:Size: I note the specs of the overall unit, main brush, and side brushes. This gives me an idea of how well a vacuum can clean floors and carpet — the larger the brushes, the more they can usually sweep up. The main brushes are often between 5 to 10 inches long, and side brushes are usually 2 to 3 inches long. Of the vacs I've tested, only Roomba models have two main brushes; others have one. I've noticed that longer brushes tend to facilitate faster cleaning. If this appeals to you, consider a unit with a longer brush, such as the Roomba s9+.Carpet cleaning: I poured a tablespoon each of flour, coffee grounds, and kitty litter on 18-inch-square sections of carpeting. I also collected pet hairs from my rat terrier and two cats to place on carpeting. I ran the vacuum on its most powerful mode for two cleaning cycles and compared before-and-after photos to estimate the percentage of each material picked up or left behind.Hardwood floor cleaning: This is the same test as the carpet cleaning test but on hardwood flooring.Corner cleaning: To test corner cleaning abilities, I poured a teaspoon of flour in an approximately 4-inch radius in a corner on hardwood and carpeting. I took pictures of the messes before and after running the robot vac for two cleaning cycles to compare how much flour was left over. I also measured how close to the corner the vac was able to reach.Obstacle avoidance: You don't want your robot vac to get stuck while it's cleaning or when it's returning to its charging dock, both of which force you to hunt it down while it's sending you notifications or making annoying error sounds. I tested the vacuum in an approximately 500-square-foot room with several obstacles, including stairs, a 1-inch threshold to a kitchen, and a table with chairs.Loudness: I used a sound meter to measure the decibel output of each of the robot vacuums from 12 inches away as they ran on the highest and lowest settings. For vacuums I no longer had in my possession for testing, I relied on manufactures' info and my previous notes. Brushes: I noted the lengths of the main and side brushes as they'll likely indicate performance in our cleaning tests.Robot vacuums work using a combination of suction and brushes. There are two types of brushes on robot vacuums: the side brush and the main brush. Units have either one or two side brushes that are about 3 inches in diameter and protrude from the forward portion of the vac. They move in a circular motion, get into corners, and feed debris to the main brush. There appears to be little difference in the performance of vacuums with two side brushes versus those with one.The main brush is between five and ten inches long, located under the unit, and is made of a rubber-like material. The vacuum sucks debris into the main brush, which spins to feed the materials into the dustbin. Of the vacs I've tested, only Roomba models have two main brushes. Other models have just one. I've noticed that longer brushes tend to facilitate faster cleaning. If this appeals to you, consider a unit with a longer brush, such as the Roomba s9+.Extras: I note if the vacuums included extras such as filters and side brush replacements, mop attachments, a cleaning tool, and more.   Special features: All of the vacuums featured some method for scheduling and returning to their charging dock on their own, so those weren't useful differentiators. Auto-dirt disposal, voice control, and home surveillance aren't universal, so you may want to consider if those are important. (There's more information on those and other features here.) What we're testing next Amazon Amazon We're constantly testing new vacuums to update our guide. Below are a few models we are currently testing or will be testing soon:Shark AI with XL HEPA Self-Empty Base: This is an update to the Shark IQ self-emptying vac, and the improvements appear to be pronounced. The self-empty dock has a 33% larger capacity and has HEPA filtration. The main brush is designed to tangle less frequently. Plus, you can set no-go zones in the SharkClean app (available for iOS and Android).iRobot Roomba i7 - Certified Refurbished: This will be my first time testing a certified refurbished robot vacuum. I'm curious to see if it performs as well as the new i7, which we recommend. Choosing certified refurbished only saves you $100 right now, so I expect its performance to be virtually indistinguishable from a new unit.Samsung JetBot AI+: Samsung announced the release of an AI-based robot vac at the 2021 CES trade show, and we're looking forward to testing its smart-learning capabilities to avoid obstacles. It also has cameras and can be connected to the brand's SmartThings hub for another layer of home security. Trifo Lucy: In addition to powerful suction and an outstanding app, Lucy has HDR video, a two-way microphone, and the ability to detect noise and people in your home as part of a home security setup. I'm interested in testing its vacuuming abilities alongside the home security features. Why we don't measure Pascal Pressure Unit James Brains/Insider A robot vacuum's suction power is measured in Pascal (Pa). Generally speaking, the higher the Pa, the better, but that's a misleading metric of comparison. When I talked to engineers at iRobot about a year ago, they told me that there are several ways to measure suction power, but there are no industry standards. They viewed the reported Pa measurements as essentially useless, hence why it's nearly impossible to find suction power for iRobot vacs. It's also difficult to find the Pa for Ecovacs, though Eufy and Roborock report the measurements for their models.Due to the inconsistent reporting from manufacturers, we don't include Pa as a part of our testing methodology and criteria. How to shop for a robot vacuum James Brains/Insider While using a robot vacuum is easy enough, shopping for one can be overwhelming. Here are the main aspects to look for when considering which one to buy. Size: If you have furniture that's hard to move or low-clearance pieces like sofas or bed frames, you'll want to pay attention to the height of a robot vacuum; the other dimensions are usually within the range of reason for a normal household.For example, I have several radiators in my house with a 3.5-inch clearance that slim vacuums can get under, while just-slim-enough models sometimes get stuck, and too-thick models bump up against and go elsewhere. If you want your robot vacuum to get under your low-clearance furniture, make sure you choose a model that is slim enough to do so. Features: It's important to think about what features you actually need. For instance, if you work from home and are rarely away, HD cameras aren't useful since you can keep tabs on your home with your own eyes. If your floors are covered with carpet, you don't need your robot vac to mop. I also rarely use voice control out of personal habit, but if you use Alexa or Google Assistant for everything, then compatibility with those services is a must.Extras: You can easily purchase extra filters or brushes for robot vacs, but we think having them included with the unit is better. All of our top picks include useful extras like brushes or dirt disposal bags.Price: Robot vacuums go on sale often, and the discounts are steepest during Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. We expect most of the models we recommend in this guide to go on sale, so it pays to wait until those sale days. How to use a robot vacuum James Brains/Insider Robot vacuums make keeping your house clean easier, but there's still some regular maintenance needed to improve the performance and longevity and help your indoor air quality. Run your robot vac when no one is around: Andrea Ferro, Ph.D., a professor at Clarkson University and president of AAAR, and Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at PCSI, both recommend running your robot vacuum in unoccupied areas. The robot vacs can kick dust, pollutants, and microbes back into the air as it vacuums floors, which can lead to subpar indoor air quality. "Every vacuum, including a robot vacuum, has the potential to release some dust, particles, and allergens back into the air, but the benefits still outweigh the risks," said Peña-Hernández. And run it regularly: Ferro and Peña-Hernández agree that you should run your robot vac at least once per week and more if you have pets and heavy-traffic areas. Ferro even suggests that daily cleaning isn't a bad idea. I generally set my vacuums to run in the early morning before I wake up or when the level of my house where the vacuum is running will be unoccupied, especially since I live in a large house with three pets and no HVAC system.Clean the dustbin and filter: If you're regularly vacuuming your space, you'll need to make sure to empty the dustbin and clean the filter. According to Peña-Hernández, you should clean the vacuum's filter at least once a week, or twice a week if you have a pet.  You'll also need to replace the filter and brushes every few months. Manufacturers usually give guidelines in the vac's user manual on how often you should replace these components. A good sign that it's time to replace your filters or brushes is if they appear to be damaged or if your vac just isn't doing as good of a job of cleaning as it once did. Fortunately, many models come with extra filters and brushes, but eventually, you'll have to purchase replacements. Manufacturers usually link to their parts store in your robot vac's app, but you can also usually find parts on Amazon, so it's worth shopping around. Just make sure that you are buying the right parts for your model.Use it in addition to a traditional vacuum:  Despite how far robot vacuums have come in the last decade, they won't replace your stick and upright vacuums anytime soon. Robot Vacuum FAQs Do you still need another vacuum if you have a robot vac?While the dream is to set your robot vacuum on a schedule and have it do all the floor cleaning for you, it's just not the reality at the moment. Robot vacuums don't clean as much dirt and debris as upright vacuums. "I think you'd still need a stick or upright vacuum for spots that the robot vac can't reach," Ferro said.Robot vacs function best as maintenance cleaners. Having them run a couple times a week will make your floors less gunky, especially if you have pets. But these vacuums also need babysitting. You need to clear their path of anything that might get tangled in their wheels, and some have trouble getting into or out of tight spaces. Their bins are fairly small, so you'll need to empty them more regularly than an upright or stick version. Even squarish robot vacuums — as opposed to round ones — aren't perfect at getting into corners. Some are too tall to fit under certain types of furniture. They obviously avoid stairs, too. Upright vacuums typically come with attachments that are useful for cleaning things like drapes or furniture, which robot vacs can't handle. "Research indicates that robot vacuums are not meant to replace upright vacuums," Peña-Hernández said. "That likely has to do with their smaller motor size. They're good for touch-ups and in-between uses."When it comes to robot vacuums, expect maintenance not miracles.How have robot vacuum cleaners improved?Since iRobot's first Roomba came on the market in the early 2000s, robot vacuum technology has improved a lot. You can now find square-ish models in addition to round ones, and the mapping technology is much better. Cameras and optical sensors can help with obstacle recognition, and LiDAR-based navigation uses lasers to detect objects. These capabilities aren't perfect, but vacuums are now more adept at finding their way back to charging docks than they were even a few years ago. Another new feature is self-emptying bins, which suck the debris out of the robot and into a canister in the charging dock. Many robot vacuums are now smart, letting you start a cleaning session from an app or by asking a smart speaker. Some, like the iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum, let you block off entire rooms in an app, so you don't have to worry about them getting stuck on your kid's clothing piles. With cameras and connectivity come some privacy concerns. Some interesting features aren't universal, such as auto-dirt disposal and home surveillance. To get more guidance on these features, I spoke with Jill Notini, Vice President of Communications and Marketing for AHAM.A few of the new features she's excited about — and that are found in many if not all of the models in our guide — include:Advanced navigation: "Many of today's models have the ability to map a home and remember how to get around objects and stay out of tough spots. You can also program the robots to vacuum specific areas of the home." You can also set no-go zones that the vacuum should avoid on your phone via the app.Mopping ability: "Robots are evolving into floor care multitaskers," said Notini. "In addition to vacuuming, some models now have the ability to mop, both wet and dry."Voice control: "Robotic vacuums can now respond to voice commands, either directly or through an outside system like Amazon Alexa."Remote operation: "You can start, stop, or control your robotic vacuum with your mobile device."Cameras: "Cameras have been incorporated into some models to help the robot map the room and allow you to get a robot's eye view of cleaning and keep an eye on your house while you're away."Fall prevention: "Even with all of the new features and technological advances, robotic vacuums still have not gained the ability to climb stairs. Many models now utilize sensors to prevent themselves from taking a tumble down the stairs or off a higher level." All of the robots in our testing were able to sense cliffs and avoid falling down stairs.Automatic dirt disposal: One of the most useful features that's becoming more ubiquitous is the charging dock that automatically empties the vacuum's dustbin. Even the largest bins need to be emptied with regular use, so it's a maintenance task you'll need to perform once a week — at best. But with the self-emptying dock, the chore is no longer necessary. You just throw away and replace the disposable dust bag every month or two.Can a robot vacuum prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus?The novel coronavirus is most easily spread through face-to-face interactions and in close quarters. If someone in your household has been sick — even if it's not with COVID-19 — it's recommended to clean and disinfect the area.  "Currently, the CDC recommends that we take precautionary measures for vacuuming during the COVID-19 outbreak although there are no reported cases of COVID-19 associated with vacuuming," Peña-Hernández said. "It recommends using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, opening outside doors and windows to increase air circulation, and not vacuuming areas with people in it." How do you clean a robot vac?Though robot vacuums automate cleaning your floors, they are not completely hands-off. There are several care and maintenance steps you should take to ensure your vac operates properly for many years to come. Manufacturers provide clear instructions for cleaning and maintaining your robot vacuum in the user manual or app. Here are some general maintenance tasks:Empty the dustbin: Depending on how dirty your home is, you will want to empty your robot vacuum's dustbin after every use. If you run your vac daily and don't have pets, you can get away with doing this chore once a week.Clean the filter and dustbin: This is a weekly task. Cleaning the filter is important because the vacuum doesn't clean as well when the filter is dirty. You can clean most models' filters and dustbins with water. I usually clean and thoroughly dry the dustbin while letting the filter air dry. While the filter is air drying, I insert the extra filter that most units come with. Whatever you do, make sure the filter and dustbin dry completely before you use them again.Clean front wheel, brushes, sensors, and charging contacts: You should do this every two to four weeks. Most robot vacuums come with a cleaning tool with a brush on one end and a cutting blade on the other. Use these to cut out hairs that are wrapped around the brushes and wheel and brush away debris. Use a soft dry cloth to dust the sensors and charging contacts per the manufacturer's instructions.Additionally, after about two months of use, it's time to replace the filter. The front caster wheel and brushes — both the main brush and side brushes — should be replaced every year or so.Can you fix a robot vac?This depends entirely on the problem. In my years of testing robot vacuums, I've probably run into every problem a robot vacuum can experience: falling down stairs (surprisingly uncommon), running through pet accidents, attempts at taking up crocheting, etc. I've learned that these machines are resilient. That said, any attempt to fix a problem with your robot vacuum should start with consulting customer service. After I determined there was no chance I could clean the pet waste off my robot vacuum, I reached out to the manufacturer. And, even though the warranty specifically states these accidents aren't covered, they still provided me with a replacement unit for free. The most common problem I face is the vacuum finding my wife's yarn and wrapping it around its wheels and brushes. When this happens, you can usually work the thread free if you're patient. I usually just cut it free.  The best deals on robot vacuums from this guide A robot vacuum can make a huge difference in your life by cleaning messes for you with the touch of a button, but they can be pricey — at least on the surface. Every week, we see discounts on robot vacuums. However, the product category is so saturated that it can be difficult to figure out which sales are worth your time.Robot vacuum deals during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day are almost always worth your time. During these events, we've seen our top picks drop by more than $200. There are currently no updated deals at this time.Read more about how the Insider Reviews team evaluates deals and why you should trust us. Check out our guides to more great vacuum cleaners Connie Chen/Insider The best vacuumsThe best affordable vacuum cleanersThe best cordless vacuums Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

New fathers will appreciate a thoughtful gift this holiday. Here are 49 of the best gifts for new dads, from a diaper backpack to comfy sneakers. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. Lovevery Becoming a parent is a complicated process and yet it can literally happen over night. From sleep schedules being thrown off to shifting priorities, new dads can feel out of sorts very quickly. But you can help a new dad. Thoughtful gifts that help them on a daily basis are some of the best ways to support them. Dad's new normal may be rocking his world, but these thoughtful gifts will help ease the change. From an on-the-go snack to comfortable sheets, we rounded up the best gifts for new dads this holiday. Still looking for a gift? Check out our list of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested. From a tea subscription to nonalcoholic wine, these are the gifts dads would ask for if they weren't too busy with diapers and figuring out how the stroller folds up to get into the car. Here are 49 of the best gifts for new dads: Non-alcoholic wine Jukes Cordialities Jukes 6 Wine, available at Jukes Cordialities, $48.50As tough as being a new dad can be, waking up at 2 a.m. for the bottle-feeding after a couple glasses of wine at dinner can be even harder. Thankfully, Jukes offers delicious wine without the brain fog. Available in white, red, or rose, each Jukes bottle makes delicious non-alcoholic wine when mixed with chilled water.  A quick snack Chomps Chomps Mild Variety Pack, available at Chomps, $22.50A relaxed sit-down meal is all but a distant memory for many new dads, so snacking between feedings, bottle cleanings, diaper changes, and errands is key. Chomps makes a variety of meat sticks from beef, turkey, and venison, all of which are sustainably farmed and grass fed. Each stick includes 9 grams of protein, zero sugars, and no nitrates — healthy, quick, and easy. Candles to freshen up the house Elder & Co. Elder & Co. Parks and Trails Sample Set, available at Elder & Co., $36From stinky diapers to special lotions and shampoos, new fatherhood can be an olfactory assault. Thankfully, this eight-candle sampler from Elder & Co. includes scents like Appalachian Trail, Joshua Tree, and Grand Canyon to bring some much needed calm and control over the not-so-pleasant new baby smells.   A travel trivia game Paper Source Gentleman's Hardware Road Trip Trivia, available at Paper Source, $14.95Just because kids enter the picture doesn't mean traveling stops. In fact, trips to grandma and grandpa's house will have a new dad on the road more than before, so give them a gift that they can use. This road-trip trivia pack from Gentlemen's Hardware includes 100 cards and a convenient travel tin.  A diaper backpack Amazon Bag Nation Backpack Diaper Bag, available at Amazon, $59.95Resembling a commuter bag, this 14-pocket backpack is durable and holds all the essentials, from diapers to bottles and everything in between. There's even a foldout changing pad. A tea subscription Atlas Tea Club Atlas Tea Club 3-Month Subscription, available at Atlas Club, $60Coffee can be a new parent's greatest weapon against restless nights and early mornings, but sometimes it can be too much. Gift the new dad in your life a monthly tea subscription from Atlas. The subscription includes two new single-origin teas from around the world delivered every month.  A portable speaker Amazon JBL Clip 3 Portable Speaker, available at Amazon, $49.95The JBL Clip 3 is the ultimate bluetooth speaker for new dads. It comes in a variety of colors; has an integrated carabiner to attach to a stroller, car seat, or backpack; and, most importantly, is waterproof. Paired with a smartphone, dad can sit back and relax while blasting "Baby Shark" for the hundredth time. A portable white noise machine Amazon Marpac Portable White Noise Machine, available at Buy Buy Baby and Amazon, $26.99The compact Marpac has impressive sound, a variety of white noise options, and a small nightlight. Dad can use the included clip to connect it to a stroller, car seat, or carrier for walks and car rides. A convenient sling bag Moment Moment Fanny Sling, available at Moment and B&H Photo, from $59.99Moment is known for making smartphone-oriented products, but within the past few years, the brand has moved into mobile lifestyle, and if anyone is living that, it's a new dad. This waterproof, easy-to-clean sling can hold a wallet, keys, phone, camera, snack bar, and other necessities.  It's perfect for running errands or a day traipsing around a theme park. *This product is currently backordered A smart coffee warmer Best Buy Ember Mug², available at Target, Best Buy, Overstock, and Bloomingdale's, from $99.95Every new parent knows the taste of lukewarm coffee — it's inevitable. Dad deserves (needs!) to have delicious, warm coffee. The Ember Mug² will keep their beverage warm for more than an hour, pairs with an app to ensure the right temperature, and recharges on a coaster. . Hot sauce Amazon Bushwick Kitchen Bees Knees Spicy Honey, available at Amazon, $14.99Dad will be taking breakfast to the next level in no time at all with Bushwick Kitchen's sauces. Choose from sweet and spicy sauces like wildflower honey mixed with habanero peppers or mild, sweet options like Meyer lemon honey.  A waterproof tote bag Adventureon Gift the Veer Tote, available at Adventureon, $99This tote is a great gift for new dads — not only does it have padded handles and an interior water-resistant zip compartment, but the entire bag is made of coated waterproof fabric. That means dads can get it as dirty as they want and simply rinse it off to make it good as new. A funny book about fatherhood Barnes & Noble Man vs. Baby: The Chaos and Comedy of Real-Life Parenting, available at Amazon, $16.29Nothing will fully prepare him for the chaos and confusion of being a new dad. However, Matt Coyne's sleep-deprived take on parenting provides hilarious and honest reassurance that he's doing alright, no matter how stressful it seems. Polarized sunglasses REI Gift the Sunski Puerto polarized sunglasses, available Sunski, $48Some dads worry that their style will cease when they welcome a child into the world. A new pair of shades is a quick way to shake up the routine. These sunglasses are made of lightweight recycled material and feature polarized lenses that eliminate glare. Bonus, if the glasses break from normal use, Sunski will replace or fix them. Comfortable slide sandals Hunter Boot Gift the Hunter Original Lightweight Moulded Slides, available at Hunter Boot and Nordstrom,  $45.00Hunter's EVA slides fit the bill for easy, lightweight, and durable footwear. The perforated uppers and contoured footbed keep dad's feet cool and comfortable, and you can't beat the ease of simply sliding them on for errands or just to wear around the house. A compact flashlight Coast Gift the HX-4 LED Flashlight, available at Amazon and Coast, from $15Fumbling for diapers in the middle of the night or searching for that tiny clip from baby's teething toy that fell between the seats in the car — these are good reasons for dad to have a great flashlight. This one is small, has a clip and a magnet to attach it nearly anywhere, features a powerful LED in white and red light, and can be rotated 180 degrees to make sure it's exactly where dad needs it. A new set of sheets for parents and baby Brooklinen Gift the Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set, from $109Brooklittles Crib Sheet Set, available at Brooklinen, from $32Sleep, when it does happen for both dad and baby, is so much better on a set of soft sheets that make them feel like they're sleeping on a cloud. Brooklinen sheets are great for delicate skin and hot sleepers, and they come in a variety of colors and prints. A basketball jersey for baby NBA Store NBA Baby Jersey, available at NBA Store, from $39.99It's going to be a while before baby gets into it, but it's still a lot of fun for a new dad to watch the game with baby decked out in their favorite jersey. A travel mug for coffee time Amazon Gift the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug, available at Stanley and Bed Bath & Beyond, from $20New dads rarely have both hands free, so eliminating the need to twist, pop, flip, or open their coffee mug makes life so much easier. Dad can simply add their coffee, screw on the top, and pull the trigger to open up the world of caffeine goodness. A fitness app with extras Centr Centr Fitness App Subscription, available at Centr, from $10/month or $120/yearBuilt by Thor and his legion of trainers, Centr is a one-stop-shop for workouts ranging from yoga to full gym routines. The app includes short, effective workouts that are perfect for that new dad schedule and the guided mediation will slow dad's anxiety. A shaving kit Harry's Harry's Truman Shave Set, available at Harry's, $15This essential shave set includes a razor with a comfortable handle and textured rubber grip, three German-engineered blade cartridges, foaming shave gel for a rich lather, and a travel cover to protect the blades. Stroller phone mount Amazon Skip Hop Stroll and Connect Universal Phone Holder, available at Buy Buy Baby, $14.99Made with tough plastic and rubber grips, the Stroll and Connect mounts to a stroller or shopping cart. It stays put and won't fall off on bumpy terrain or in crowded aisles. A wireless charging station Nomad Nomad Base Station, available Nomad, $99.95If the secret to success as a new dad is organization, Nomad's wireless charger fits the bill. It can power two devices simultaneously while also allowing for a USB-C and USB-A cord to be plugged in for a total of four devices at once. Mom and dad's phones, AirPods, and the portable white noise machine will all be ready to go at a moment's notice. One tool for almost every job REI Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool, available at REI, $59.95The Leatherman Wingman is loaded with 14 tools, including a knife, screwdrivers, bottle openers, and even a 1-inch ruler, so dad can fix just about anything and pop open a cold one when they're done. A device to keep track of everything Amazon Tile Essentials 4-Pack, available at Amazon, $69.99This grab bag of Tile options lets new parents rely on technology instead of their overtaxed brains. New dads can attach Tiles to their keys, diaper bag, and wallet to ensure those items never stay lost for too long. And if dad has their keys but not their phone, they can double tap the Tile to make it ring.  Comfortable underwear Saxx Saxx Quest Boxer Briefs, available at Quest, $32The right pair of underwear makes everything go so much smoother. The lightweight material is soft and breathable, and the patented BallPark Pouch keeps everything in place. A play kit of curated toys Lovevery Play Kit Subscription, available at Lovevery, from $36/monthMake those long hours playing on the floor count with a subscription to Lovevery curated age-appropriate toy kits. Delivered every two months, each kit comes with a guide that explains how the included toys support a child's development.  Comfortable running socks Darn Tough Gift the Darn Tough Stride Micro Crew Ultra-Light Running Sock, available at Amazon and Darn Tough, from $18.95For many new dads, exercise is crucial to maintaining mental health, but they can't afford to get sore feet. These running socks are made from merino wool for moisture wicking, provide arch support to reduce fatigue, and have seamless stitching to to prevent blisters and chaffing. Another plus is Darn Tough's no-questions-asked lifetime guarantee. A comfortable pillow Coop Home Goods Coop Home Goods Original Pillow, available at Amazon, $61.99A comfy pillow might be the most important ingredient for a restful night. The Coop pillow has adjustable fill that can be added or removed to their liking, and a 100-night trial means dad isn't stuck with it if they don't like it. Instant pour-over coffee Kahawa 1893 Kahawa 1893 Coffee Lovers Gift Box, available at Kahawa 1893, $49Restless nights and uncertain mornings may have dad missing their morning pour-over coffee ritual. They can still have that rich flavor thanks to third-generation Kenyan coffee farmer Margaret Kemunto Nyamumbo. This single serve is packaged like a tea bag, ready in five minutes, and 100% compostable. Bonus: You can send a tip directly to the women who picked the coffee. A quick hang Backcountry Metolius Project Board, available at Backcountry, $64.95With a variety of holds, from jugs to crimps to pockets, the Metolius Project Board is great for releasing tension with a quick upper body workout. Dad can use it just about anywhere indoors or outside, and the fine texture is easy on the skin. An adjustable baby carrier Bradley Hasemeyer/Insider Ergobaby Omni 360 All-in-One Carrier, available at Buy Buy Baby, Amazon, and Ergobaby, from $161Whether dad is running errands or spending a day in the park, a good baby carrier makes everything so much easier. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is made from super soft cotton and easily adjusts to fit waists and shoulders of all sizes. It works in multiple positions, too — front or back, face-in or face-out.  An Instant Pot Target Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 (6-Ot.), available at Amazon, $89With the Instant Pot, cooking dinner for the whole family is a breeze. The multicooker is great for preparing soups, meats, yogurt, and even baby food. Easy cleanup means more time to spend with the little one, too. A meat or seafood box Crowd Cow/Instagram Crowd Cow Gift Box, available at Crowd Cow, from $44Give a new dad something delicious to cook. Crowd Cow's meats and seafood are sourced from independent producers that practice sustainable farming and ethical treatment of animals. Super soft lounge pants Tommy John Tommy John Second Skin Lounge Pants, available at Tommy John, $68New dads will love a pair of comfortable house pants that won't embarrass them when the in-laws show up unannounced. These soft, light micromodal pants from Tommy John are perfect, and they hold up nicely in the wash. An interactive photo journal Artifact Uprising "The Story of You" Baby Book, available at Artifact Uprising, $99A phone full of pictures and videos is great, but dad will want something to hold onto the most special moments. In this photo book, featuring a fabric cover and foil stamped title, they can write down their memories of each milestone. Comfortable shoes that slip on Vasque Vasque Satoru Moc, available at Backcountry, $99.95As any parent will tell you, getting your shoes on can be downright tough when you're holding the baby, diaper bag, and much, much more. Footwear brand Vasque has new dads covered. With a sock-like upper and memory foam footbed, dad will probably wear them all day, and the easy on and off makes them infinitely versatile. A lightweight button-up for a put-together look The Tie Bar Tie Bar Short-Sleeve Shirt, available at Tie Bar, from $27.50It's nice for dad to feel put-together sometimes. The 100% cotton button-ups from Tie Bar are perfect for a rare night out or day at the office. A cold brew maker Amazon Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $24.99Dad will love a cup of cold brew coffee when they need a pick-me-up after sneaking in an afternoon nap. The easy-to-use Takeya Deluxe makes up to 1 quart of concentrate.  A durable water bottle Hydro Flask Hydro Flask Wide Mount Water Bottle, available at Hydro Flask, $32.95When life gets as hectic as it does for new fathers, it's easy to forget to drink water. This durable insulated metal bottle keeps water cold and within arm's reach. A delicious baby blanket UncommonGoods Tortilla Baby Blanket, available at Uncommon Goods, $48The flour tortilla print on this blanket is perfect for wrapping your baby up like a bundle of burrito joy. The blanket is made of breathable cotton/polyester blend fabric that will keep baby comfortable and cool.  A foam roller Trigger Point TriggerPoint GRID foam roller, available at Amazon, $34.95Knots and tight muscles go hand in hand with parenting. Dad will appreciate having this foam roller to roll away the aches and pains of being a new parent. A tool kit Amazon Cartman General Household 39-piece toolkit, available at Amazon, $19.99There's just something about being a dad that turns everyone into an overnight handy person. This tool kit includes all the basics they'll need for assembling or repairing all that new gear in the nursery and beyond. A soft cooler Clevermade CleverMade SnapBasket Soft-Sided Cooler Tote, available at Amazon, $33.95Dad is going to need a good cooler for bringing groceries home from the store or packing up milk and baby food for a road trip to see the grandparents. This one has a 50-can capacity, but it still folds up small enough to stash under the seat when they don't need it. A custom print of baby's footprints Pine & Poem Baby / Etsy Baby Footprint Art Print, available at Etsy, from $18It's always hard to believe how little they used to be. This is an attractive, thoughtful personalized that fits nicely anywhere in the home. A pair of chinos Bonobos Bonobos Chinos, available Bonobos, from $99Unfortunately, a new dad can't wear lounge pants all the time. But that doesn't mean they've got to sacrifice comfort. Bonobos chinos come in multiple fits and sizes, and the signature curved waistband offers an unobtrusive fit that makes them great for the office, a trip to the store, or a playdate in the park.  Single-origin coffee beans Colectivo Coffee Colectivo Coffee—Sumatra, available at Colectivo, from $15.95If dad is a coffee fanatic, they'll love a bag of single-origin beans. Grown in the volcanic soil in the rugged mountains of the Indonesian island Sumatra, this rich, complex blend has notes of molasses and pineapple. And for those mornings where there's no time to hassle with a French press, don't overlook instant coffees, which have caught up in quality to the whole bean variety. A smart speaker for baby's room Amazon Echo Dot, available at Amazon, $34.99A smart speaker is a nice addition to baby's room. It can play lullabies or classical music at bedtime, or dad can use it to listen to the game while they're playing with toys.  An REI membership REI REI Co-op Membership, available at REI, $20Getting active and outdoors is great for kids, and something a new dad can do right from the start. With an REI membership, they'll get annual dividends, exclusive offers, and more to get the gear they and their family will want.  Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

We've got affordable gifts under $50 for every sort of dad, whether he's a hot sauce enthusiast or a history buff. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. w&p We have gifts under $50 for every sort of dad, from the hot sauce fan to the history buff. If your budget changes, here's a guide to gifts under $25. Need more gift ideas? Check out all Insider Reviews gift guides here. Whether you're looking to rag on Dad or show him all the love and kindness in the world (which are really one in the same, right?), we've got affordable gift ideas for budgets under $50 for every sort of dad, from the hapless car-key-losing fool to the history buff and the masterful (or not-so-masterful) home chef.Whatever it is that Dad's into, something below is bound to make him smile, laugh, cry, or, hopefully, all of the above. If you need a gift quick and don't want to pay for expedited shipping, you might want to consider our list of Prime-eligible gifts available at Amazon.See more under-$50 gifts for Dad below: A miniature golf course for the office Uncommon Goods Desktop Golf, available at Uncommon Goods, $35This miniature golf course offers the perfect office distraction as it lets him practice his putting skills right at his desk. The desktop golf board lets him change the pitch of green so he can putt a different hole at any time. Slip-on slippers for indoor and outdoor Nordstrom Spun Slippers, available at Nordstrom, $39.95If he tends to not wear socks at home, these slip-on slippers are a nice and more comfortable alternative. These lounge-worthy slippers feature a soft faux fur lining, absorbs shock, and work for indoors and outdoors use. A sentimental whisky glass Uncommon Goods Urban Map Glass, available at Uncommon Goods, $18Your dad's a classy guy, and even if he's not, he should be drinking from this intricately designed whisky vessel. Raise a toast to his favorite city by customizing the glass etching. A multi-functional gardening kit Uncommon Goods Gardener's Tool Seat, available at Uncommon Goods, $40If their hobby is gardening but it's not so easy on their knees, this lightweight garden stool combines the features of a tool bag and a folding chair. A fondue set Bed Bath & Beyond Dash 3 qt. Deluxe Fondue Maker Set, available at Bed, Bath & Beyond, $49.99This fondue maker lets you melt decadent ingredients like cheese and chocolate, so you can create delicious dips for the whole family.  Comfy boxer briefs with cool prints MeUndies MeUndies Boxer Brief, available at MeUndies, $24They can rep their fandom with these fun, cozy boxer briefs. We love MeUndies' underwear for its size inclusivity and comfort. A copper waiter's key Williams Sonoma Wine Waiters Corkscrew, available at Williams Sonoma, $33.71A nice piece for the bar to replace that ratty old plastic thing he stole from Holiday Inn before you were born and life was good. A 3-month Amazon Prime membership Tommaso Boddi / Getty Images Amazon Prime membership, available at Amazon, 3 months for $39He'll pick up on it. Just get him started. An Amazon smart plug Amazon Amazon Smart Plug, available at Best Buy, $24.99If the thought of talking to Alexa blew his mind, wait till he starts using these. A coffee table book-ode to American whiskey Amazon "The Art of American Whiskey," available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, from $19.99Whether or not Dad's a whiskey drinker, there's some deep-seated American history in Rothbaum's collection that no one can deny. An Anthony Bourdain cookbook illustrated by Ralph Steadman Amazon "Appetites: A Cookbook," available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, from $20.39According to both Jacques Pepin and this book's late author, no grown man should ever go without knowing how to cook an omelet.  An avocado tree starter set Uncommon Goods Avocado Tree Starter Kit, available at Amazon, $10.95Setting these up will be almost as enjoyable as the fruits of his labor. And while it may take a while to yield, everybody wins with this gift. A new, ultra-lightweight headlamp Biolite BioLite HeadLamp 200, available at BioLite, $44.95Dad's neck could stand a break; you've been a pain in it all along, and that clunky old headlamp he takes out night-fishing isn't doing him any favors, either. Biolite's latest edition weighs under two ounces and boasts 40 hours of battery life.  The story of Bacardi, and the fight for Cuba Amazon "Bacardi: The Long Fight for Cuba," available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, from $15.26History and rum. What more intrigue does a dad need? A folding bamboo laptop desk Target Winsome Alden Lap Desk with Flip Top in Walnut Finish, available at Target, $49.99Or a breakfast-in-bed tray, as he likes. A Disney+ subscription Alyssa Powell/Business Insider Subscribe for $7.99/month or $79.99/yearBetween Star Wars and the Simpsons, this should keep him busy for a while.Disney+ offers unlimited access to movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, National Geographic, and 20th Century Fox, and costs just $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year after a free seven-day trial. Read everything there is to know about Disney+.And if you need some inspiration, here are all the new movies available to stream. A bottle of American whiskey, cut with Rocky Mountain water Reserve Bar Tin Cup American Whiskey, available at Reserve Bar, $35If Dad's a no-fuss kinda fella, this ought to suit him just right. Tin cup included. A set of beard oils Amazon Grave Before Shave Beard Oil 4 Pack, available at Grave Before Shave, $35.99Stop letting Dad go out with that scraggly beard and get him some beard oil and balm to shape it up a little. A chiller to keep his beer cold Amazon Corkcicle Chillsner, available at Amazon, two-pack for $23.76The stainless steel Chillsner fits easily into the bottle and keeps beverages refreshingly crisp. A carry-on cocktail kit to take the edge off the flight Uncommon Goods The Carry On Cocktail Kit: The Old Fashioned, available at w&p, $24Dad's sick of the same old scotch and soda he drinks on his red eyes. Help him change it up a bit. A pillow just for naps Casper Casper Nap Pillow, available at Casper, $17.50What's more precious to Dad than his naps? Well, besides you... A durable pizza stone Williams-Sonoma Emile Henry Pizza Stone, available at Williams Sonoma, $54.95If he's using a baking sheet — or worse, nothing but tin foil — to make pizzas, there's no need to discuss it: It's time for a change. A bottle of rosé Champagne Wine.com Nicolas Feuillatte Reserve Exclusive Rosé, available at Drizly, from $49.99If he has good taste, this will appease it. If not, it will be a test of his rock-solid masculinity as to whether he's willing to drink it. A chambray and leather apron Crate & Barrel Chambray Grey Apron, available at Crate & Barrel, $29.95No more bacon grease stains on his favorite football jersey. A comb for life Amazon Chicago Comb Model No. 1, available at Amazon, $9.99This will likely outlast his hair, but when it does, he'll look at it as a fond memory of his long-lost locks — of which, he'll dare not let you forget, you singlehandedly stripped him during your formative years. A cooler cup Hydro Flask Hydro Flask 12 oz Insulated Cooler Cup, available at Hydro Flask, $24.95One part beer koozie (fits a 12-oz., longneck, or tallboy), one part coffee mug, this will keep his beverage plenty hot or cold, wherever he may roam. A multi-tool utility bracelet Uncommon Goods Men's Utility Bracelet, available at Uncommon Goods, $40Remind him that he is handy, and he can fix things. The newest Amazon Echo Dot Amazon Amazon Echo Dot (4th generation), available at Amazon, $49.99Amazon's signature Alexa-powered speaker gets a design upgrade with its new spherical shape. If your dad's a tech guru, he can use this speaker to control the home, stream his favorite tunes, listen to podcasts, and connect with others.  All-natural foot and shoe powder Walmart Foot Sense Foot and Shoe Powder, available at Walmart, $16.32A not-so-subtle gift for the whole family, but if there's ever a time to lovingly let Dad know that his feet stink to high heaven, it's now. A custom graphic map of his favorite city Uncommon Goods Custom Map Poster, available at Grafomap, starting at $49You can make one of your dad's hometown, his college town, his favorite travel destination, or the place where he got engaged or married — you're only limited by your imagination.  A guitar pick punch Amazon Guitar Pick Punch, available on Amazon, $25.95If Dad doesn't already play the guitar, it's time. There is no instrument more "Dad" than the ax. But, just as he loses his keys, he'll constantly find himself in want of a pick. Make no mistake, this little tool will save him a few bucks over the years. Old gift cards and credit cards are fair game, but beware: so is your fake ID. A Himalayan salt stone Wayfair Himalayan Salt Plate with Holder, available at Wayfair, $49.95Heavy salting and charring might not be the best thing for dear old Dad's body, but it is simply rhapsodic to his soul. Himalayan salt tequila glasses Uncommon Goods Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses, available at Uncommon Goods, four for $28More salt? Yes, we know. But if Dad is anything of a tequila drinker, we're sure there's no better vessel from which to send (or sip) it down his gullet than these hand-carved salt glasses. A truffle-oil-infused hot sauce Amazon Truff Black-Truffle-Infused Hot Sauce (set of 2), available at Truff, $34.19If he's not into making his own but happens to be in his truffle-oil-loving phase, this'll light him right up. A hot toddy spice kit Oliver Pluff Co. Hot Toddy Kit, available at Oliver Pluff Co., $20If he's being a Grinch or a Scrooge, nothing will put him in the holiday spirit faster (just don't forget to add the booze). An exfoliating coffee scrub Amazon Brooklyn Botany Arabica Coffee Scrub, available at Amazon, $11.99Whether or not your father's blackheads are shaping into braille, this scrub will leave his skin soft and smooth. As for that stubbly five o'clock shadow? Have a look at one of our shaving kits. A shaving kit with a badger hair brush and a thick ceramic soap mug The Art of Shaving The Gifted Groomer Kit, available at The Art of Shaving, $35Banish the electric razor from your house by reminding your Dad how lovely it is to shave with a real razor, a fine brush, and thick, frothy soap from a mug.Also, check out our buying guide to the best shaving supplies here. An assortment of liquor and beer nuts Uncommon Goods Beer & Bourbon Nuts, available at Uncommon Goods, $30Because no Dad should ever be left with beer or bourbon and no nuts. All-American seasonings and rubs Man Crates Mount Rubsmore, available at Man Crates, $29.99If Dad's a grilling fiend, he'll love this. Check out other options from Man Crates here. A classic French shellfish shucking tool Williams Sonoma Williams Sonoma Seafood Oyster Knife, available at Williams Sonoma, $21.95This shucking tool is an all-in-one that can handle oysters and clams. Williams Sonoma's knife features a sturdy angled blade ideal for shucking oysters and a nonslip, soft grip handle to shuck safely. Adjustable silicone bands for organizing Amazon Packbands Adjustable Straps, available at Amazon, 12-pack for $34.95A solution to anything and everything from organizing tools and loose wires to poorly packed suitcases. A folding multitool for his inner chef Uncommon Goods The Chef's Portable Multi-Tool, available at Uncommon Goods, $38His campfire meals can only improve with this thing along for the trip. A refreshing aftershave Uncommon Goods Proraso After Shave Lotion, available at Saks Fifth Avenue, $14Help him feel fresh and clean with a slick after-shave. Also, check out our buying guide to the best shaving supplies here. A cheese making kit The Grommet DIY Mozzarella/Ricotta Cheese-Making Kit, available at The Grommet, $29Dad deserves artisanal mozzarella and ricotta made with love, even if he has to make it himself. A cool way to enjoy whiskey Amazon Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge, available at Sur la Table, $17.95Skip the whiskey stones this year and get this eye-catching conversation starter instead.  An illustrated book on sushi Uncommon Goods "Sushi: Jiro Gastronomy," available at Barnes & Noble, $14.99Inspiration for your dad so he can finally stop making the meatloaf no one ever wants seconds of. A key finder Uncommon Goods Tile Mate Key Finder, available at Amazon, $24.99A compact key tracker for your hapless car-key-losing fool of a dad is a really thoughtful and practical gift. A money clip full of tools Amazon SmartRSQ 37-in-1 Wallet Multitool Card, available at Amazon, $19.95If your dad's a tool guy, he'll appreciate having one of these on him at all times. If he isn't, and if he never even uses the thing, it'll at the very least make him feel like he's MacGuyver. Bison-down trail socks United By Blue United By Blue Bison Wool Socks, available at United By Blue, $38Socks might seem boring to you now, but wait till you're a dad. Socks like these will be worth their weight in gold. A nearly indestructible fishing rod Amazon Ugly Stik Elite Fishing Rod, available at Bass Pro Shops, $49.99If your dad's the kind of guy who breaks things (aren't they all?), this is the fishing rod for him. A pair of durable stainless steel pint glasses that keep drinks cold for hours Uncommon Goods YETI Rambler Stackable Stainless Steel Pint Glass, available at YETI, $24.99More things he can't possibly break or kill. A huge custom cardboard cutout of your lovely face Build A Head Big Head Cutouts, available at Build-A-Head, from $14.99Lest he forgets his one and only pride and joy. A book to make your awesome dad even more awesome Amazon "This Is The Book to Give Your Dad: Everything an Awesome Father Wants to Know," available at Barnes and Noble, $20Not that he needs it. A life-proof wet/dry electric shaver and trimmer Amazon Wahl Lithium Ion All-in-One Beard Trimmer Men's Grooming Kit, available at Amazon, $39.97Whether Dad's often running late and trying to cop a quick electric trim or shave with a wet face, or he's just downright rough on things, he should get some mileage out of this one. A sleek, eco-friendly lunch box Amazon GreenLunch Bento 3-in-1 Bento Lunch Box, available at Amazon, $31.89Don't send Dad off to work (or school, as the case may be) with a brown bag. If you think it's embarrassing for you, it's definitely embarrassing for him. Coasters made from reclaimed records Uncommon Goods Upcycled Record Coasters, available at Uncommon Goods, $18Remind him that vinyl will never go out of style, and neither will he. A kit to make his own hot sauce Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit, available at Uncommon Goods, $40Help Dad ditch the Cholula and sriracha and tap into his creative side. Even if you've never seen it, it's there. We promise. A reusable water bottle S'well S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle, available at Amazon, $45This reusable water bottle will be sure to help your dad remember to drink more water throughout the day, whether it sits on his office desk, in his car, or in his gym bag. He'll enjoy traveling in style with the refined, soft-edged design that's unique to S'well. A portable bluetooth speaker Amazon Anker Soundcore Flare Mini, available at Amazon, $42.99If your dad's all for simplicity and good sound, this wireless Bluetooth speaker delivers with its 360-degree audio, minimal buttons, water-resistance, and 12-hour battery life. The bottom also lights up with a colorful display that matches the beat of the music. A sleek portable charger Amazon Elecjet Powerpie, available at Amazon, $49.99Say hello to the solution to your dad's phone somehow always running out of battery. This portable charger can slip right into his pocket, so he'll never forget it or miss any of your calls.Check out more of our top picks for the best portable chargers and power banks. A personalized photo calendar Artifact Uprising Artifact Uprising Walnut Desktop Photo Calendar, from Artifact Uprising, $30If you're far away from your dad but want to remind him of all of your favorite memories together, this personalized calendar can rest right on his nightstand or desk. And it's easy to create — simply choose the font design and then images for each month.  Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

In a matter of hours, developers were using Open AI's new software to design websites, create legal documents, and make games. The new GPT-4 artificial intelligence software from OpenAI has only been out for one day. But developers are already finding incredible ways to use the updated tool, which now has the ability to analyze images and write code in all major programming languages. Just hours after its release, several users said they created computer games in less than a minute by simply asking the chatbot to generate code, resulting in near-perfect renditions of Tetris, Connect Four, Snake, and Pong. Other users created a matchmaking service, bedtime stories, a browser extension that translates any webpage into “pirate speak,” and even a tool that can help discover new medications. [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”] OpenAI unveiled the new GPT-4 on Tuesday, saying it can handle “much more nuanced instructions” than the older generation, which captivated users starting in November 2022 with its uncanny ability to generate elegant writing and answer almost any question. But the previous version of Chat GPT relied on an older generation of technology that wasn’t able to reason and learn new things. Its answers were not always correct or appropriate, either. Read More: The AI Arms Race Is Changing Everything The new generation, in contrast, relies on a “large multimodal model” that can accept longer text inputs of up to 25,000 words—compared to the previous 3,000 words—and is trained to be safer and more factual, OpenAI said. The public got a sneak preview of the tool when Microsoft last month released the Bing AI chatbot using GPT-4. The tool is so powerful that it can take a photo of a hand-drawn mockup for a simple website and turn it into an actual website using HTML and Javascript code. The new model can even analyze and describe photos, capable of explaining why an illustration of a squirrel taking a photo of a nut was funny (answer: “we don’t expect them to use a camera or act like a human”). 🤯🤯Well this is something else. GPT-4 passes basically every exam. And doesn't just pass…The Bar Exam: 90%LSAT: 88%GRE Quantitative: 80%, Verbal: 99%Every AP, the SAT… pic.twitter.com/zQW3k6uM6Z — Ethan Mollick (@emollick) March 14, 2023 OpenAI hasn’t yet made the image description feature available to the public, but users are already gearing up for its public launch. Joshua Browder, the CEO of the New York-based startup DoNotPay, a chatbot lawyer that helps people with their legal issues, says he plans on harnessing the power of GPT-4’s image feature so users can scan their medical bills and have the chatbot identify errors, compare prices to other hospitals, and automatically draft a legal defense under the No Surprises Act, which protects medical patients from surprise bills. “The new GPT-4 has almost a 5x improvement on earlier models,” Browder says. “This latest one is sophisticated enough to draft a lawsuit. Earlier models didn’t have that level of sophistication—they would make things up, they would pretend to know things, which we call hallucination. But we’re not really seeing that with GPT-4.” DoNotPay is working on using GPT-4 to generate "one click lawsuits" to sue robocallers for $1,500. Imagine receiving a call, clicking a button, call is transcribed and 1,000 word lawsuit is generated. GPT-3.5 was not good enough, but GPT-4 handles the job extremely well: pic.twitter.com/gplf79kaqG — Joshua Browder (@jbrowder1) March 14, 2023 The buzzy launch of OpenAI’s fourth generation AI software capped months of hype and anticipation over the powers of this technology, which many industry leaders believe has created a fundamental technological shift similar to the creation of web browsers in the early 1990s. On Tuesday, companies all across the U.S. began coming up with ways to integrate GPT-4 into their products. Duolingo, the language-learning app, announced it would now be able to share more personalized explanations for mistakes powered by AI, which might include “signature, playful and quirky commentary.” At Stripe, the electronic payment platform, GPT-4 is already being used to provide users with accurate answers about customer support and fraud detection. Financial services firm Morgan Stanley is also using GPT-4 to streamline internal technical support processes. Even the government of Iceland is working with OpenAI to help preserve the Icelandic language. “The speed at which it’s able to program and be creative is pretty staggering,” says Josh Pigford, the founder of Maybe, a financial planning firm that plans to use GPT-4 to quickly extract credit card transaction data for users. “It replaces what an engineer could potentially do.” Sooooo @maybe's transaction data is about to get reeeeeal good, thanks to GPT-4. pic.twitter.com/w8BeTpLC8q — Josh Pigford (@Shpigford) March 14, 2023 In the medical profession, doctors are even considering using GPT-4 for patient consultations. Anil Gehi, an associate professor of medicine and a cardiologist at UNC-Chapel Hill, described to the chatbot the medical history of a few patients he had seen earlier that presented complex medical cases. In just seconds, the chatbot gave him a perfect answer on how he should have treated the patient using all the correct medical terminology. “It very cogently thought through those clinical scenarios and laid out options to consider,” Dr. Gehi says. “It was very impressive.” “It’s not going to replace a human doctor,” he adds. “But it’s one of those things we can use alongside our work.” With its wide display of knowledge, the new GPT has also fueled public anxiety over how people will be able to compete for jobs outsourced to artificially trained machines. “Looks like I’m out of job,” one user posted on Twitter in response to a video of someone using GPT-4 to turn a hand-drawn sketch into a functional website. “Idk if i should be excited or scared,” another wrote. Read More: He Used AI to Publish a Children’s Book in a Weekend. Artists Are Not Happy About It The nonprofit organization Common Sense released a statement on Tuesday calling for a national dialogue around kids and artificial intelligence, saying that “the consequences for kids, educators and families—both good and bad—have not been thoroughly considered.” Others expressed concern that GPT-4 still pulls information from a database that lacks real-time or up-to-date information, as it was trained on data up to August 2022. The time-gap could make trusting the accuracy of what’s online more difficult. “The real breakthrough will occur, however, when an AI system…contains up-to-date information—ideally updated in real-time or, failing that, every few hours,” says Oliver Chapman, CEO of supply chain specialists OCI. To use GPT-4, users have to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, a $20 monthly subscription, for premium access to the service. GPT-4 currently has a cap of 100 messages every four hours......»»

In a matter of hours, developers were using Open AI's new software to design websites, create legal documents, and make games. The new GPT-4 artificial intelligence software from OpenAI has only been out for one day. But developers are already finding incredible ways to use the updated tool, which now has the ability to analyze images and write code in all major programming languages. Just hours after its release, several users said they created computer games in less than a minute by simply asking the chatbot to generate code, resulting in near-perfect renditions of Tetris, Connect Four, Snake, and Pong. Other users created a matchmaking service, bedtime stories, a browser extension that translates any webpage into “pirate speak,” and even a tool that can help discover new medications. [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”] OpenAI unveiled the new GPT-4 on Tuesday, saying it can handle “much more nuanced instructions” than the older generation, which captivated users starting in November 2022 with its uncanny ability to generate elegant writing and answer almost any question. But the previous version of Chat GPT relied on an older generation of technology that wasn’t able to reason and learn new things. Its answers were not always correct or appropriate, either. Read More: The AI Arms Race Is Changing Everything The new generation, in contrast, relies on a “large multimodal model” that can accept longer text inputs of up to 25,000 words—compared to the previous 3,000 words—and is trained to be safer and more factual, OpenAI said. The public got a sneak preview of the tool when Microsoft last month released the Bing AI chatbot using GPT-4. The tool is so powerful that it can take a photo of a hand-drawn mockup for a simple website and turn it into an actual website using HTML and Javascript code. The new model can even analyze and describe photos, capable of explaining why an illustration of a squirrel taking a photo of a nut was funny (answer: “we don’t expect them to use a camera or act like a human”). 🤯🤯Well this is something else. GPT-4 passes basically every exam. And doesn't just pass…The Bar Exam: 90%LSAT: 88%GRE Quantitative: 80%, Verbal: 99%Every AP, the SAT… pic.twitter.com/zQW3k6uM6Z — Ethan Mollick (@emollick) March 14, 2023 OpenAI hasn’t yet made the image description feature available to the public, but users are already gearing up for its public launch. Joshua Browder, the CEO of the New York-based startup DoNotPay, a chatbot lawyer that helps people with their legal issues, says he plans on harnessing the power of GPT-4’s image feature so users can scan their medical bills and have the chatbot identify errors, compare prices to other hospitals, and automatically draft a legal defense under the No Surprises Act, which protects medical patients from surprise bills. “The new GPT-4 has almost a 5x improvement on earlier models,” Browder says. “This latest one is sophisticated enough to draft a lawsuit. Earlier models didn’t have that level of sophistication—they would make things up, they would pretend to know things, which we call hallucination. But we’re not really seeing that with GPT-4.” DoNotPay is working on using GPT-4 to generate "one click lawsuits" to sue robocallers for $1,500. Imagine receiving a call, clicking a button, call is transcribed and 1,000 word lawsuit is generated. GPT-3.5 was not good enough, but GPT-4 handles the job extremely well: pic.twitter.com/gplf79kaqG — Joshua Browder (@jbrowder1) March 14, 2023 The buzzy launch of OpenAI’s fourth generation AI software capped months of hype and anticipation over the powers of this technology, which many industry leaders believe has created a fundamental technological shift similar to the creation of web browsers in the early 1990s. On Tuesday, companies all across the U.S. began coming up with ways to integrate GPT-4 into their products. Duolingo, the language-learning app, announced it would now be able to share more personalized explanations for mistakes powered by AI, which might include “signature, playful and quirky commentary.” At Stripe, the electronic payment platform, GPT-4 is already being used to provide users with accurate answers about customer support and fraud detection. Financial services firm Morgan Stanley is also using GPT-4 to streamline internal technical support processes. Even the government of Iceland is working with OpenAI to help preserve the Icelandic language. “The speed at which it’s able to program and be creative is pretty staggering,” says Josh Pigford, the founder of Maybe, a financial planning firm that plans to use GPT-4 to quickly extract credit card transaction data for users. “It replaces what an engineer could potentially do.” Sooooo @maybe's transaction data is about to get reeeeeal good, thanks to GPT-4. pic.twitter.com/w8BeTpLC8q — Josh Pigford (@Shpigford) March 14, 2023 In the medical profession, doctors are even considering using GPT-4 for patient consultations. Anil Gehi, an associate professor of medicine and a cardiologist at UNC-Chapel Hill, described to the chatbot the medical history of a few patients he had seen earlier that presented complex medical cases. In just seconds, the chatbot gave him a perfect answer on how he should have treated the patient using all the correct medical terminology. “It very cogently thought through those clinical scenarios and laid out options to consider,” Dr. Gehi says. “It was very impressive.” “It’s not going to replace a human doctor,” he adds. “But it’s one of those things we can use alongside our work.” With its wide display of knowledge, the new GPT has also fueled public anxiety over how people will be able to compete for jobs outsourced to artificially trained machines. “Looks like I’m out of job,” one user posted on Twitter in response to a video of someone using GPT-4 to turn a hand-drawn sketch into a functional website. “Idk if i should be excited or scared,” another wrote. Read More: He Used AI to Publish a Children’s Book in a Weekend. Artists Are Not Happy About It The nonprofit organization Common Sense released a statement on Tuesday calling for a national dialogue around kids and artificial intelligence, saying that “the consequences for kids, educators and families—both good and bad—have not been thoroughly considered.” Others expressed concern that GPT-4 still pulls information from a database that lacks real-time or up-to-date information, as it was trained on data up to August 2022. The time-gap could make trusting the accuracy of what’s online more difficult. “The real breakthrough will occur, however, when an AI system…contains up-to-date information—ideally updated in real-time or, failing that, every few hours,” says Oliver Chapman, CEO of supply chain specialists OCI. To use GPT-4, users have to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, a $20 monthly subscription, for premium access to the service. GPT-4 currently has a cap of 100 messages every four hours......»»

Michael Gartenberg, a former Apple exec and Gartner analyst, says there are three areas Apple needs to fix with the iPad, or its days are numbered. Michael Gartenberg was a rabid fan of the iPad when Apple CEO Tim Cook introduced a new version in 2015.Reuters/Beck Diefenbach Former Apple exec Michael Gartenberg has an iPad Pro and has owned various iPads over the past decade.  His iPad used to be his constant travel companion, more used than his laptop — but not anymore. He says the iPad is at an intersection between failure and ongoing success, and Apple must pay attention. In 2011, when the iPad had been on the market about a year, it was declared an instant — and somewhat shocking — success, with about 15 million units sold and $10 billion in revenue in its first nine months. And Apple took a victory lap over the many, many media reviewers who had predicted it would fail.It was a game changer back then for offering a large, high-resolution touchscreen in a compact, portable form that was ideal for consuming media, browsing the web, and running a variety of apps. This was in an era where even the smartest of phones were terrible at those functions and when laptops had no touchscreens and were often clunky, with short battery life.As a technology analyst and writer, I bought my first iPad back then and loved it. It was my constant travel companion and even, at one point, used for my productivity needs instead of a laptop.But much has changed in the smartphone world, and the most important part of the iPad has not kept up.Today I use a Galaxy Z Fold4, which transforms from a 6.1" smartphone into a 7.8" tablet (about the size of an iPad Mini), and a MacBook Air, which has spectacular performance and battery life.I still own an iPad Pro, but I hardly ever reach for it. It's a cool device and orders of magnitude better than what was introduced in 2010. At the same time, it's a jack-of-all-trades but master of none, so I can no longer justify its existence as part of my ecosystem. I'm sure I will eventually hand it down to a child in my family so they can watch "Sesame Street" videos on it and draw pictures. It's a great tool for both, albeit a little pricey for the tasks. From my very familiar viewpoint, the iPad's current state is a testament to its limitations and the challenges it faces. After a decade, Gartenberg doesn't reach for his iPad anymore but for his much more versatile and travel-friendly Galaxy Z Fold4.SamsungPowerful hardware, frustrating software One of the iPad's biggest issues is that its hardware is increasingly overpowered relative to the apps available for the device. With each new iteration, the iPad has gotten faster and more capable, but the quality and quantity of iPad apps have not kept pace, despite Apple's promises of "desktop class" apps for it (whatever those are).So iPad users, like myself, are paying a premium for hardware that is far more advanced than the software we are able to run on it. This situation is exacerbated by Apple's treatment of developers. When they have ideas for new iPad apps, they have to take on the costs of development, only to later cope with a 30% "Apple tax" (Apple's cut of their revenues) and increasingly fickle App Store rules.If Apple plans to make the iPad a truly capable device with first-class apps, it's going to need to take developer relationships a lot more seriously. Developers should not have to appeal on social media to get Apple's attention on highly subjective App Store rules and whims.Another major issue is that the user interface, based on iOS, has become increasingly complicated over time. With each new release of iOS, Apple has added features and functionality, making the operating system more powerful but more complex. This has made it more difficult for users to find the features they need, leading to confusion and frustration.Here are just a few examples. The iPad supports a wide variety of gestures, including swipes, pinches, and taps, that can be used to navigate and interact with apps. But many users find these gestures hard to learn, and they are not apparent without some explanation or guidance beyond what the iPad offers.While the iPad is highly customizable, the process of customizing settings and preferences is more than a bit arcane. Configuring things like the "dock," the "control center," and your notifications can take some time to figure out, and the options are buried levels deep under settings.The iPad's accessibility settings allow you to create custom gestures that can be used to perform various tasks. For example, you could set up a gesture that allows you to quickly access the app switcher or one that lets you quickly toggle on or off a specific setting. But setting up these custom gestures can be a bit difficult, as it requires you to navigate the accessibility settings to even know they exist. "Stage manager," the iPad's new showcase feature for multitasking, isn't even turned on by default. It's hidden away — and for good reason. It's difficult to use, and I would need to write a full-length review to describe just how truly awful my experience with it has been.An in-depth review from MacStories' Federico Viticci tells you all you need to know: He spends most of it venting about his inability to get the feature to work without crashing his whole system. The fact that you need a full-length review to describe this feature included in the operating system tells you just how far Apple has strayed from the "it just works" mantra of the Steve Jobs era.The iPad is great for drawing and kids apps but a bit pricey for those activities.AppleA touchscreen MacBook would kill the iPadMy final reason for concern is that the perception of the iPad as a secondary device is being reinforced by the recent rumors of a touchscreen MacBook.If such a device came to market, it would likely offer many of the same features and capabilities as the iPad, but with an operating system that already supports decades of powerful, business-grade applications — everything from Adobe's creative applications to Microsoft's Visual Studio, or for that matter, Apple's own app-development platform, Xcode. Presumably, it would arrive as a touchscreen-keyboard situation, a form factor that's more familiar and traditional for laptop users. This would make the iPad practically obsolete. Virtually anything one could do on an iPad would now be possible on a Mac, while the reverse would not be true. While the iPad would remain good for browsing the web or watching videos, it wouldn't be as capable as a MacBook for getting real work done, and an iPhone, even with a large screen, is more portable, and just as beautiful, for consuming media.Now I do realize that the iPad was the shining star in Apple's last reported quarter (October to December, which included the holiday shopping season). It was the only Apple segment that didn't decline in revenue, coming in at $9.4 billion versus $7.76 billion in the prior year.But the iPad's net sales overall declined in its previous full fiscal year (September 2021 to September 2022) to $29.3 billion, down 8% over the year-prior period. Whether that was a trend or an anomaly, we'll have to wait to find out.I think that the iPad's great holiday season had to do with a new, more expensive iPad Pro introduced earlier that year, as opposed to a trend of the iPad growing in sales and popularity. In its fourth fiscal quarter of 2022, for example, (the three months that ended on September 24), iPads brought in $7.17 billion in revenue, down from $8.25 billion in the year-ago quarter, which is much more in line with how the iPad has performed over time.If Apple wants to continue to succeed with the iPad, it will need to address these challenges head-on. This may mean simplifying the iOS user interface, investing more in the development of iPad-specific apps, and focusing on its internal software to better leverage the strengths of the iPad's hardware.Whatever the solution, it is clear that the iPad is at a crossroads, and the decisions that Apple makes in the coming months and years will be critical to its continued success.Michael Gartenberg is a former senior marketing executive at Apple and has covered the company for more than two decades as a market-research analyst at Gartner, Jupiter Research, and Altimeter Group. He is also an Apple shareholder. He can be reached on Twitter at @Gartenberg.Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

You are probably concerned about your bank account balances these days. This is especially true if you are living paycheck to paycheck — which according to a 2022 Lending Club report is approximately two-thirds of the population. To make matters worse, your anxiety is likely heightened by inflation and the prospect of a recession. However, […] You are probably concerned about your bank account balances these days. This is especially true if you are living paycheck to paycheck — which according to a 2022 Lending Club report is approximately two-thirds of the population. To make matters worse, your anxiety is likely heightened by inflation and the prospect of a recession. However, there are a few basic things you can do to lower your financial stress, as well as your budget: Cut back on your expenses Apply for a raise Get a better-paying job Start a side business if (typeof jQuery == 'undefined') { document.write(''); } .first{clear:both;margin-left:0}.one-third{width:31.034482758621%;float:left;margin-left:3.448275862069%}.two-thirds{width:65.51724137931%;float:left}form.ebook-styles .af-element input{border:0;border-radius:0;padding:8px}form.ebook-styles .af-element{width:220px;float:left}form.ebook-styles .af-element.buttonContainer{width:115px;float:left;margin-left: 6px;}form.ebook-styles .af-element.buttonContainer input.submit{width:115px;padding:10px 6px 8px;text-transform:uppercase;border-radius:0;border:0;font-size:15px}form.ebook-styles .af-body.af-standards input.submit{width:115px}form.ebook-styles .af-element.privacyPolicy{width:100%;font-size:12px;margin:10px auto 0}form.ebook-styles .af-element.privacyPolicy p{font-size:11px;margin-bottom:0}form.ebook-styles .af-body input.text{height:40px;padding:2px 10px !important} form.ebook-styles .error, form.ebook-styles #error { color:#d00; } form.ebook-styles .formfields h1, form.ebook-styles .formfields #mg-logo, form.ebook-styles .formfields #mg-footer { display: none; } form.ebook-styles .formfields { font-size: 12px; } form.ebook-styles .formfields p { margin: 4px 0; } Get Our Activist Investing Case Study! Get the entire 10-part series on our in-depth study on activist investing in PDF. Save it to your desktop, read it on your tablet, or print it out to read anywhere! Sign up below! (function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]='EMAIL';ftypes[0]='email';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true); Q4 2022 hedge fund letters, conferences and more   Find A Qualified Financial Advisor Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn't have to be hard. SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you're ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. All seem relatively easy. What’s more, it doesn’t take a lot of money to lower your financial stress. The exception, of course, is starting a side business. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, the average cost to start a microbusiness is $3,000, while the average cost to open a home-based franchise is $2,000 to $5,000. However, what if you could earn money from home without spending a dime? It may sound too good to be true. But, here are 20 real ways to make money from home for free. 1. Sell your skills on Fiverr. Even if you have a full-time job, using Fiverr, you can monetize your time and specialty skills. Basically, it’s a website where you can find micro-jobs. The purpose of such services is to facilitate the quick completion of standalone tasks for an individual, business, or employer. Depending on the task, you can earn $5 and up. Over time, though, there’s potential to earn several hundred dollars per month. There is a wide range of tasks that can be performed, including writing letters, answering emails, performing minor graphic functions, and anything else that is similar. But, don’t let your intimidation get the better of you. The platform lets you choose which skills to offer. As you browse Fiverr, you’ll find a lot of ideas to help you get started, as there are many success stories. Plus, this is an absolutely free way to earn money online without investing anything. 2. Work as a virtual assistant. Are you good at organizing and planning? If so, becoming a virtual assistant can be an excellent way to earn extra income online. As a virtual assistant, you manage social media pages, respond to emails, and take phone calls for businesses. In response to the increasing number of solopreneurs, virtual assistants are experiencing an increase in demand. Getting started is as simple as applying for jobs on Upwork, Indeed, or Virtual Assistant Jobs. According to Indeed.com, VAs earn an average of $23.89 per hour. Virtual assistants have also found success by building their own personal brands and promoting them to entrepreneurs. Consider creating a Facebook Business page and filling it with content that promotes your business. Don’t worry. You can create one for free and share it anywhere online. 3. Become a JustAnswer expert. For subscribers, it costs $74 per month to access unlimited expert answers with JustAnswer. Providing timely advice, the site seeks out experts such as veterinarians, mechanics, home repair specialists, and lawyers. As such, it can be a sweet gig if you have expert knowledge. It’s simple. You answer questions and earn money helping others. In addition to talking, texting, and chatting, you can send documents and photos that might help solve the problem. When you become a new expert, you’ll earn 20% of the user’s payment. It is possible to work your way up to 50% of the fee with enough consistently high ratings over time. The payouts are made through PayPal. As well as the aforementioned expertise, you can also provide assistance with appraisals, pets, and teaching. In other words, there are many subcategories that make it accessible to individuals with varying levels of experience. 4. Write on Medium. Experts and undiscovered writers can share their writing on any topic on Medium. You can use Medium instead of starting a blog from scratch. With Medium, you can begin earning money right away, as opposed to purchasing a domain and web hosting. Also, using Medium as a platform for writing can be an excellent choice if you don’t want to spend months or years writing on a blog without making any money. Writers on Medium get paid for their stories based on how many people read them and interact with them. Most writers on the platform make less than $100 per month, but the top earners make more than $10,000 per month. The best way to become a top earner is to post a daily article for a long period of time. Your earnings will increase as you write more articles and as they become more popular. Another advantage of Medium? Instead of picking a niche straight away, you can develop your voice gradually. You might start writing on Medium and then start a blog once you find your sweet spot of readers’ interests and your own interests. The same content could be used for your blog and Medium site, but be careful not to ruin your search engine optimization. Whenever possible, post your writing to your blog first, followed by a Medium post, referencing the original post. 5. Join a focus group. Do you enjoy expressing your thoughts and opinions? If yes, then why not participate in paid market research studies? The purpose of focus groups is usually to determine the attitudes of people toward specific products, brands, or ideas. It may also be possible to ask participants about their opinions on competitors’ products or services. It depends on the focus group, but you can expect to get a salary of $30 to $150 for an hour for a focus group — although some very specific focus groups pay up to $450 for an hour. Participants in focus groups are usually paid handsomely, and they can be held in person or online. There are several places where you can find focus groups, including: User Interviews Respondent FocusGroup.com L&E Research 20 | 20 panel In most groups, there will be a moderator who guides discussion, takes notes, and records the meeting. You can participate in an online focus group using video software on your smartphone, tablet, or computer if you join one. 6. Review a mock trial. Are you a fan of court procedurals? Is “The Lincoln Lawyer” and other John Grisham adaptations your cup of tea? Online mock trials might be a good fit for you if so. Websites such as Ejury.com, OnlineVerdict, and Virtual Jury pay you for watching a mock trial from the comfort of your own home. In return, jurors will receive payment amounts ($20-$60) based on the amount of time it takes to review a case. 7. Become an online researcher. Do you have solid Google skills? If you are able to provide reliable sources and information for companies in a variety of fields, you may be paid. You can now earn a paycheck for doing web deep dives. Examples of companies that hire online researchers on a regular basis are: 10EQS Boston Scientific Chainlink Labs CrowdStrike Edmentum Humana Parexel Robert Half International Twilio Wonder Applicants may be required to have a bachelor’s degree and research experience by some companies. As for the pay, it can range from $8 to $35 per question answered. 8. Take online surveys. There are a lot of ways to make money online, but this is probably the most common. It is possible to participate in popular online survey platforms, such as: OneOpinion Survey Junkie Inbox Dollars Swagbucks Ipsos iSay Opinion Outpost Monthly earnings range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Additionally to earning cash, some survey services offer points that can be redeemed for prizes or gifts. Prior to participating on any platform, be sure to do your research. There are a lot of scams in this field, unfortunately. 9. Enter data entry. Making extra income through data entry has long been a popular side job for people. In the past, these positions were temporary within a company. However, online work-from-home opportunities have transformed the potential of data entry. Even better, the job requires very little training, so it’s a great choice. Input or uploading information can be done using a keyboard, scanner, or other devices that allows input or uploading. Because payment is usually based on your words per minute (WPM), you’ll need to learn to type quickly. Freelance job sites like Upwork are the best place to find data entry jobs. Companies that outsource these jobs can be found on these sites. Still, there are temporary agencies that offer these same office jobs online. If you are looking for data input, data entry specialists, or data entry operators, consider job sites such as Monster and Indeed. Salary.com estimates that the average hourly wage for a Data Entry Clerk I in the United States will be $17 on January 26, 2023, but the range will typically be between $16 and $20. Also, be sure to stick with reputable job marketplaces and agencies, as this type of job is prone to scams. 10. Transcribe audio and video files. Speech-to-text transcription is getting easier with artificial intelligence, but it’s still not perfect. As a result, a large number of companies use transcriptionists to turn audio from videos into text that is accurate. With companies like Rev, you can work part-time or freelance on specific projects with various firms. You are usually able to choose which assignments you want to work on and set your own schedule at most companies. In addition, no money is needed upfront — just use the computer’s speakers to transcribe. You’ll need strong typing skills to succeed as a transcriber. Also, for clients to understand your work, it must be error-free and easy to understand. You can practice transcribing short audio files so that you’re ready to apply for transcription jobs. When transcriptionists are just starting out without a specialization or expertise, they usually make between $15 and $25 an hour. 11. Launch a YouTube channel. Have you ever considered becoming a YouTuber? With today’s smartphones, you can make funny skits, unboxing videos, and product tutorials. Also, you can set up your YouTube channel for free. You can create a YouTube channel with your name or a custom name by signing into your Google account. It is possible to earn money as a YouTube channel owner in several ways. When your channel reaches 1,000 subscribers, you can start earning money with ads. Your YouTube channel can also be monetized by partnering with brands, selling merchandise, or becoming an affiliate. You need to focus on one niche if you want your YouTube channel to be successful. Whether you want to offer beauty tutorials, reviewing tech products, or summarize cryptocurrency prices every day, you can do whatever you think will attract more viewers. 12. Sell your used items. Are there items in your home that are collecting dust and taking up space? Wouldn’t it be great if you could sell them online and make a profit? eBay is one of the most famous sites for selling everything from books, collectibles, and cars to clothes, art, and furniture. You can choose from multiple categories and sale options, including an auction and a “Buy It Now” option. Make sure you know what things are selling for, describe your content clearly, and offer several visuals to attract attention. Craigslist is another popular marketplace for used goods. You can list items for free on the site for others in your local area to see and possibly purchase. In recent years, numerous apps have emerged that have become immensely popular for quick sales, such as OfferUp. Unlike many of eBay’s sales, these are primarily for local pickups rather than shipping. Through Facebook Marketplace, you can also sell socially. It is also regarded as an online and local sales process, so plan on meeting up with buyers for the delivery of items. Furthermore, other online sites work well for specific niches that you may want to target. Poshmark, for instance, offers gently used designer clothing and accessories, along with some branded home goods. When it comes to tech equipment, DeCluttr is an ideal solution for getting rid of older smartphones, tablets, and more. Additionally, video games, CDs, and DVDs will be accepted. 13. Take photos and sell them online. If you have a good collection of photographs, you can sell them as stock images to companies. You will earn a small commission every time someone downloads your image from the company. These are a few examples of websites where your photos can be sold: 500px Alamy Adobe Stock Burst iStock Shutterstock Stocksy Zenfolio Another option? Sign up for a print-on-demand marketplace like Printful, Redbubble, or CafePress to sell your photography prints online. Using these platforms, you can upload images and sell physical products while they handle inventory, printing, packaging, and shipping for you. 14. Become a social media consultant. A social media presence is a must for any business, but just having it doesn’t mean companies know how to manage their accounts effectively. In a consulting capacity, you could utilize your social media skills to help companies gain followers. Because your profile serves as your portfolio, it’s pretty simple to promote yourself. You should specifically market your portfolio on digital marketing forums and groups. And, when you reach out to agencies, include a link in your email. According to ZipRecruiter, the national average for social media consultants is $52,453 per year. 15. Get paid entertaining yourself. Can you think of anything better than working from home? What about working from home while doing something you enjoy? Watching videos. On your mobile device or laptop, you can watch movie previews, TV shows, news, commercials, and more with Swagbucks or Inbox Dollars. You can redeem your points for cash via PayPal or gift cards from different retailers in exchange for points. Listening to music. If you’re interested in listening to and rating music, you might want to register with Slicethepie, Playlist Push, and HitPredictor. Each review will result in a payment, but the amounts vary since quality reviews are rewarded. As a result, if you provide a detailed and constructive review, you are more likely to receive a better payout. Payments are made via PayPal to reviewers. Playing games. Getting paid for playing games might be fun for gamers. Coin Pop, for example, allows you to exchange coins for cash or gift cards. Despite the small payout and time commitment, the rewards add up over time if you play games on the app regularly. You can also play games on sites like Swagbucks for money. 16. Host travelers in your home. If you have an extra room or are willing to rent out your entire home, Airbnb can be a great passive income source. Listing your space on Airbnb is not 100% passive or online. It is still your responsibility to make the place tidy for the guests, to answer questions, and to clean up after they leave. It is always possible to outsource these tasks or to use platforms like YourFront Desk. The bottom line is that if you have the right location and make your listing stand out, you can make six figures renting out space on Airbnb. Be sure to develop a captivating headline, take stunning photos, and describe your property in detail so that your listing will stand out. 17. Become an online travel agent. Are you known for finding the best vacation packages and flight deals? If so, put these skills to use as a virtual travel agent. It is the job of travel agents to help people plan their vacations, business trips, and personal travel. To make their trips easier, many individuals rely on travel agents to help them arrange connecting flights, accommodations, sightseeing tours, etc. To become an online travel agent, you don’t need any special certification. Instead, it takes to research and organization skills to plan a seamless trip for your clients within their budget. It is possible for you to get discounts for your clients by partnering with different companies. You might also be able to land a home-based travel agent through job boards like FlexJobs and ZipRecruiter. In the United States, the average salary for an Online Travel Agent is $64,067 per year as of February 16, 2023. 18. Start tutoring. It may not be too difficult to become a tutor if you are an expert at any of the common subjects, including math and science. Wyzant, Chegg, Skooli, and TutorMe, for example, are websites that can assist you with your work. Online tutoring has become more common than going to students’ homes in recent years. Even non-conventional subjects, such as test preparation and English as a second language, can be taught. In some cases, people may even wish to acquire specific career skills from you. Honestly. There are so many possibilities here. Additionally, you could earn several hundred dollars a month. 19. Become a professional dog sitter/walker. Do you love animals? I’ve always thought walking dogs was a relaxing and enjoyable activity. I mean it’s something that I do on a daily basis. Additionally, you can make money walking while getting some exercise. Earnings are determined by how often you work. To get your business off the ground, offer a discount to your first clients and ask them for referrals. Ideally, you want to lock in regular clients who will need you for weekly walks. To get started, find local clients by marketing your services on sites like Rover. Or, ask your friends, family, or neighbors. You may be able to earn more income if you offer pet-sitting services. You can then charge an overnight fee for keeping other animals besides dogs. 20. Refer your friends or family. You can get paid for referring your friends to some businesses, such as credit card companies, banks, and retailers. A referral page is usually displayed after you have made your own purchase and offers you a personal link to share with others. Everyone who clicks your link and buys the service or product will earn you a referral bonus. There is a wide range of payouts. For instance, Grove Collective offers $10 for a successful referral, while T-Mobile offers $50. With Capital One’s Refer a Friend program, you can earn up to $500 a year. Your referral can earn you a bonus if they’re approved for a Capital One credit card.   FAQs How can I make money online? The possibility of making money fast is one of the attractions of making money online. Considering how many people looking to make money online need money now, this isn’t surprising. In this regard, the web presents an endless amount of money-making opportunities. However, it is important to treat the process as a business if you want to make money quickly online. There is very little chance of making a quick buck on the internet unless you are selling a single item. A blog or website is a great place to start, followed by offering your skills, products, and services regularly. Additionally, you can test websites, take surveys, and sell used stuff online, which take only a few minutes to set up. Alternatively, you can earn passive income by renting out your car or participating in affiliate marketing. What are the best ways to make money at home quickly? You can earn money from home by selling used clothes and electronics, babysitting, or renting out a room on a vacation rental site. Is it possible to earn real money online? There are thousands of people who are making money online right now, proving that it is possible. It’s recommended you have multiple streams of income when making money online. For example, in addition to writing a blog and having a YouTube channel, you might offer your graphic design and tutoring services as well. When you reach that point, making money online can become a full-time occupation. Be sure to utilize budgeting tools if it does. In spite of all the advantages of self-employment, a steady cash flow is rarely one of them. As such, in order to maintain control over your finances, you must maintain a regular budget. How can I make money at home legally? You can earn money online in a number of legitimate ways. These include: Consulting or freelancing Providing customer service or virtual assistance from home Taking part in paid surveys or market research Making and selling handmade crafts online Offering physical products online through an online store or marketplace Selling digital products and services Creating your own blog or website and making money from advertising or affiliate marketing Create a YouTube channel Renting or selling items you own, such as clothing, electronics, vehicles, or guest bedrooms. Is it possible to earn money online with no money down from home? With no money down, it is possible to earn money online from home. By using free or low-cost methods like online marketing, social media, and content creation, you can start a business with little or no money. Partnering with another business or selling products and services on a commission basis is also an option. Article by John Rampton, Due About the Author John Rampton is an entrepreneur and connector. When he was 23 years old, while attending the University of Utah, he was hurt in a construction accident. His leg was snapped in half. He was told by 13 doctors he would never walk again. Over the next 12 months, he had several surgeries, stem cell injections and learned how to walk again. During this time, he studied and mastered how to make money work for you, not against you. He has since taught thousands through books, courses and written over 5000 articles online about finance, entrepreneurship and productivity. He has been recognized as the Top Online Influencers in the World by Entrepreneur Magazine and Finance Expert by Time. He is the Founder and CEO of Due......»»