Hello friend!
We've reached midweek, and it's time for our usual update on the latest tech, some productivity tips, and other tech-related interests of mine.
This newsletter is where you'll find the interesting updates, the under-the-radar news, and everything else I think you'll enjoy.
Shall we get started?
Tech to Try This Week:
Starship 4000 / Anker Prime
Battery packs have come a long way. Here are two that I use regularly:
The Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank: With its 250W output, this power bank stands out for its ability to charge high-powered devices like laptops, smartphones and tablets. It's incredibly useful for those needing a portable, high-capacity charging solution. The power bank's use of GaN technology enables efficient charging in a reasonably compact form comparable to a slightly taller fizzy drink can, making it highly portable despite its powerful output. Its inclusion of PD 3.1 technology with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port allows for flexible charging options. The Anker app integration for tracking and optimizing charging is a thoughtful touch, enhancing the user experience. Although it's on the pricier end of comparable power banks (£179.99), its performance and convenience features, like rapid recharging capability and a companion charging dock (available to purchase separately at £49.99)), make it a worthwhile investment for power users. (Anker Prime Power Bank)
The AOHi Starship 4000mAh power bank: This power bank not only has a robust 40,000mAh capacity and 140W fast charging, but its cyberpunk-inspired design makes it incredibly visually appealing. It incorporates a practical LED screen for monitoring charging status, enhancing its appeal and functionality. It uniquely serves as a charging station and a power bank, capable of charging a MacBook Pro 16" more than once and a Galaxy S23 six times. With its intelligent power distribution, it can efficiently charge multiple devices simultaneously. The AOHi Starship's crowdfunding success, surpassing $200,000, reflects its market appeal. Priced at $149 on Kickstarter, it offers high performance in a sleek package for tech enthusiasts. (AOHi Power Bank)
(Neither of the links to the these power banks are affiliate links.)
Productivity Tip of the Week: Time Blocking
Image: Kevin Ku via Unsplash
Imagine your day as a Lego set, where each block represents a task or activity you must complete. Just as you would build a Lego masterpiece piece by piece, you manage your day by assigning each task its block of time. This method goes beyond traditional to-do lists by specifying what you need to do and when you’re going to do it.
The idea of time blocking isn’t new. For decades, it’s been a favourite strategy among productivity experts and high achievers. It's suggested the roots of this productivity tool can be traced back to Benjamin Franklin, who famously outlined his daily routine in a time-based schedule, demonstrating an early form of time blocking. Today, 'Time Blocking' is championed by productivity gurus like Cal Newport, author of “Deep Work”, who argues that such focused blocks of time are crucial for accomplishing cognitively demanding tasks.
Time blocking works on a few levels:
Prioritisation: By forcing you to allocate finite blocks of time to tasks, it makes you prioritise what’s truly important.
Focus: It helps combat the urge to multitask by giving you permission to focus on one thing at a time. You know you’ve allocated time for other tasks later so that you can give your full attention to the task at hand.
Efficiency: Setting specific times for specific activities (including breaks) makes you less likely to procrastinate or get sidetracked by distractions.
To implement time blocking:
Start with a clear list of tasks you need to accomplish.
Estimate how much time each task will take.
Use a calendar (digital or paper) to allocate blocks of time for each task, including breaks.
Be realistic about your time and include buffer periods for transitions or unexpected tasks.
Remember, the goal of time blocking is not to pack every minute of your day with work but to create a balanced schedule that includes time for deep work, administrative tasks, leisure, and self-care. It’s about taking control of your day and making conscious decisions about how you spend your time.
This Week in Tech News:
Computer chips and the human brain
Neuralink Breakthrough with Brain-Computer Interface
Elon Musk’s company Neuralink has made significant progress in brain-computer interface technology. Their first human patient has successfully recovered from the implantation of a brain chip and can now control a computer mouse with their thoughts alone. This development could open new frontiers in how we interact with technology, potentially enhancing lives, especially for those with mobility issues. (Source: reuters.com)
Global Crackdown on Lockbit Cybercrime Gang
In a coordinated effort, law enforcement agencies from the UK, US, and EU have disrupted the operations of the notorious Lockbit cybercrime gang. This operation included several indictments and arrests, marking a significant victory against cybercriminals that have been involved in various ransomware attacks across the globe. (Source: reuters.com)
Microsoft’s AI Hardware Endeavor
Microsoft is reportedly developing its own AI server hardware, aiming to reduce its dependence on Nvidia. This move is part of a broader trend of tech giants seeking to have more control over the critical components powering their increasingly AI-driven services. (Source: reuters.com)
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“Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.” - Peter Drucker
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