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002design
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TOOLS AND GADGETS
JUICEPRESSO “Juicing” can mean several different things but in a healthy sense it means making fresh juice out of fruits and vegetables. There are many machines on the market but the best I’ve found so far is a cold press gadget called Juicepresso. It operates at an incredibly slow 40 RPM (other cold press machines work at a much faster 80 RPM). The slower speed provides maximum juice extraction providing up to 40% more juice than older model juicers, and since pressed juice lasts up to three days in your fridge, you can juice less often. The patented one-piece extraction system makes it easy to clean: Just pull out the three-in-one screw and place it in the dishwasher. Its small footprint makes it a great addition to any kitchen. $499
HTC ONE HTC makes great products but they don’t get as much love as gear from Apple®, Samsung® and others. I’ve been a fan of HTC products for several years and my love recently grew when I tested its new smartphone – the HTC One (model M8). The device is a bit heavier than other phones due to its casing being 90% metal (up from 70% in the previous model). It feels solid in your hand, and the brushed aluminum design is compelling. The Android-based OS is superfast and the all-important camera takes incredible photos and hi-res videos. I particularly like some of the shortcuts HTC created for taking selfies and editing photos. Though I usually listen to music with headphones I have found myself playing tunes through “BoomSound™” – the name HTC’s given to its front-facing speakers along with the software that powers them. HTC says total output is about 25 percent louder, thanks to a new amplifier and some extra space carved out behind the speakers. $299 with 2-year contract
RAIN COMMANDER The past few years have marked the beginning of the remote controlled home with automatic air conditioners, smartphone-controlled lights, security systems and more. Now guess what you can control from anywhere in the world – your lawn sprinkler system. The Rain Commander is a WiFi-enabled sprinkler controller that allows homeowners to control their sprinkler systems using their smartphone, tablet or other connected device. You can turn sprinklers on and off, schedule or control watering cycles. It is a convenience to be able to control your sprinklers when traveling but is known as “The also during a draught or a long wet spell. Now there is no need ® High-Tech Texan .” His radio program airs to climb around your garage to adjust your current system – just on KPRC weekdays 12–2pm and Saturday log on and make it “rain” from anywhere. $250 11am–2pm. See the full review of these products at www.hightechtexan.com and follow him at @hightechtexan.
MICHAEL GARFIELD
66. june 14 | www.002mag.com