UPDATED 12:23 EDT / JANUARY 07 2016

NEWS

Apple accessories and HomeKit-compatible devices at CES | #CES2016

Apple may be missing from CES 2016, but that doesn’t mean accessories and devices compatible with its products are also nowhere to be found.

This year, we’re seeing new wireless chargers for the Apple Watch, new HomeKit certified devices, a Type-C USB hub for Macs and more.

Apple Watch

BOZONActionProof introduced BOZON, a new charging dock made from silicone that can hold and charge the Apple Watch horizontally or vertically. It is designed to hold the charging cable inside so the user can choose to shorten or lengthen it as they please; plus it allows for full access of the screen, button and Digital Crown. The BOZON is priced at $39.99.

Griffin_Travel_Power_BankGriffin Technology unveiled the Travel Power Bank, a small device that resembles a thumb drive and houses an 800mAh battery that can charge the Apple Watch four times. It costs $69.99, and we can expect it to arrive by Q2 2016.

Griffin also announced two other Apple Watch accessories, the Uptown Leather Band and Trainer Watch Band, which are priced at $59.99 and $39.99, respectively, and will be available in the third quarter.

KanexKanex introduced a new Apple Watch charger that is similar in function to Griffin’s Travel Power Bank, but it can also charge other devices using the Lightning USB.

This battery pack can charge an Apple Watch for seven to 10 days, something that can be very useful when out and about and there is no time to sit down and be tied to a wall socket.

Apple HomeKit

idevices-homekit-newproducts-pressrelease-12-31-15_mainiDevices, LLC announced four new smart home products that are Apple HomeKit compatible. The line includes iDevices Socket, Wall Switch, Dimmer Switch and Wall Outlet, all of which can be controlled using the iDevices Connected App. The app allows for straightforward control of the connected devices, as well as the ability to set scenes, schedules and personalize preferences. Users can access the connected devices from anywhere and view energy reports.

Signal-fan-imageHunter Fan Co. introduced two new ceiling fans that are both HomeKit compatible. Called Symphony and Signal, the fans are able to adjust operations based on temperature, has programmable LED lighting, and retail for less than $400. Because the fans are HomeKit enabled, users can easily control them using their Apple devices, or use Siri to control its functions.

Lyric-HeroHoneywell International, Inc. announced that its HomeKit-enabled Lyric smart thermostat is now available for pre-order for $249.99. This thermostat learns from user preferences and applies them automatically when needed. A mobile app allows users to control the Lyric smart thermostat even when the user is out so they can save up on energy consumption, as well as be able to set the right temperature in theirhome even before arriving home.

MacBook

Satech_Type-C_pass_through_USB_hubThe MacBook may look good, but it seriously lacks ports, thus Satechi’s new Type-C pass-through USB hub is a very much-needed gadget for owners. It allows users to charge their MacBook and, at the same time, transfer data to or from an SD or microSD card, and even charge devices via two USB 3.0 ports. It is available for $39.99 and comes in silver, space gray and gold.

Griffin The ElevatorGriffin has also updated the Elevator, its popular MacBook stand, with new colors. This accessory safely and securely raises a MacBook to an ideal height to relieve neck strain. It also provides valuable desk real estate for an additional mouse or keyboard, giving users the feel of a desktop computer. The raised platform also ensures that the MacBook won’t overheat as it is properly ventilated. The Elevator costs $39.99.

iPhones

Speck_Pocket_VRSpeck Products (Samsonite IP Holdings) introduced a bundle pack of its popular CandyShell Grip smartphone case and Pocket VR, a portable virtual reality goggle. Pocket VR is Google Cardboard certified and was created in collaboration with Jaunt, a cinematic VR expert, to deliver the best possible VR experience. The bundle will be available in spring 2016 for $69.95 for the iPhone6/6s, as well as the Galaxy S6.

LifeProof_FRĒ_PowerLifeproof (Treefrog Development, Inc.) has introduced FRĒ Power for iPhone 6s Plus, reportedly the first waterproof battery case for a plus-sized iPhone. The case is IP68 rated, making it waterproof up to 6.6 feet for an hour and dropproof up to 6.6 feet. It has an optical glass cover camera lens for clear, sharp photos and videos. And the rapid recharge quickly charges the iPhone 6s Plus and FRĒ Power. It has built-in scratch protector to help keep the brilliant 5.5-inch 3D touch display safe from scratches yet allows for uninhibited use of all iPhone 6s Plus features and functions, including Retina Flash and second-generation Touch ID. FRĒ Power for iPhone 6s Plus will soon be available for $149.99 on lifeproof.com and at select retailers.

Olloclip_StudioOlloclip, LLC introduced Studio, a protective case that incorporates a rail mounting solution. This makes it easier to capture photos and videos. It also comes with an Accessory Kit that includes a Finger Grip so users can better hold the phone while taking a photo or video, a 1/4-20 Clip to attach to a tripod, a Cold-Shoe adapter that allows users to attach lightweight accessories, such as mics or lights, and a Kickstand that makes it easier to watch movies or read ebooks. The Olloclip Studio will be available February 2016 for $89.99.

iPads

HandScape_HandyCase_iPad_CompositeHandScape, Inc. arrived at CES 2016 to showcase its HandyCase, reportedly the first touch-enabled case for iPhones and iPads. The HandyCase allows users to control what’s on the screen without obstructing the view. This type of case can also be used by developers to implement additional controls for their apps.

clamcase-pro-for-ipad-mini-4-600x338Incipio Technologies, Inc. announced five new iPad keyboards in its ClamCase line. The features of the new ClamCases depend on which model it fits. The ClamCase+ for iPad Pro and iPad Air 2 feature a backlit full QWERTY keyboard, a slot for the Apple Pencil and a 360º hinge. It’s priced at $170 and $150, respectively.

The ClamCase Prompt for iPad Air 2 has a built-in rear OLED screen for notifications or reminders and costs $200. The other two cases are the ClamCase+ Power for iPad Air 2, which costs $200, and ClamCase Pro for iPad mini 4 that costs $130.

Photo by Yutaka Tsutano

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