The Google Pixelbook

I've been a user of Google products and services for as long as I can remember. Google continues to refine their products to make them easier to use and more powerful.
2017 has been designated by Google as the 'Year of A.I.'. Combining the wealth of data Google has amassed with their state of the art Artificial Intelligence is yielding some
extraordinary products this year. The one that's captured my attention the most, is the Google Pixelbook powered by Chrome OS. Those familiar with Chrome know it's the leading
browser in the market today. It's fast, feature packed with extensions and just plain fun to use. Well, the Pixelbook is Google's latest 'Halo' device for Chromebooks. It's the one to
get if you want the best of the best in hardware, performance, flexibility and just getting stuff done. The unit is a hybrid device, which means it's both a laptop and a tablet with
a stunning display, a super-thin footprint and weighing less than 2.5 lbs. The device can also run Android apps from the Google Play Store and can be configured to include an
active stylus for artists and note-takers alike. The Pixelbook also has support for the Google Assistant, their A.I. interface. You can access the assistant by simply saying the appropriate keyword or by a dedicated key on the Pixelbooks' gorgeous full-sized, backlit keyboard. I'll have more about the Pixelbook once mine arrives from pre-order. Welcome to the future ...

Google Pixelbook - the best Chromebook to date – period

Leapfrog Leap TV

With the XMAS holidays fast approaching,  I'm in shopping mode more than usual. Buying for kids remains one of my top priorities. This year the Leapfrog gaming system is on the list. Think of it as a PS4 or XBOX ONE for the little ones with educational titles as the focus.

Nvidia Shield TV Pro

I'm running probably the best Android media streaming box in the Shield TV Pro. The device is very fast and extremely flexible. You can play games, both locally and online, run Android apps and of course watch videos locally and streamed from a variety of sources. The Shield can also be used as a Plex Server ... wow!

ArchLabs 5.0

Installed the latest release of ArchLabs (5.0) on a Dell Inspiron 17 yesterday and so far the experience has been good. I'm also testing a backup solution called Timeshift.

ArchLabs 4.1.0

I'm testing ArchLabs LIVE Linux on a Thinkpad with a Celeron processor and 8 gb of memory.  So far it's running ok. Will try to install to the internal SSD later.

How to install ARCHLabs and customize it - ERiK DuBoiS

How to install ARCHLabs and customize it - ERiK DuBoiS

Logitech Slim Combo Keyboard

I've switched physical keyboards on my iPad Pro 12.9 from the Logitech Create to the Logitech Slim Combo. Both keyboards use the Apple Smart Connector for data transfer and power but the Slim Combo brings a Surface type experience to the mix with a detachable keyboard. Typing response has been very good in my limited use so far.

Samsung Gear S2

In my continuing quest to find a better smartwatch, I've decided to give the Gear S2 a try. Coupled with the Galaxy S8, this combo should work well together.
The device does not have the enormous app catalog of Android or iOS but it has most of the basics covered. The appearance and build quality are top notch. Battery life should be easily adequate for average usage.