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Technology

IFA Reconnect

For me, this IFA has been about connecting and reconnecting. I have not seen any major tech leaps but stay tuned, the fair has just started.

IFA Berlin 2022 starts Sept 2nd.

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Technology

Tech Trends 2022

IFA Berlin 2022 is around the corner. What are the technology trends?

Smart Home connection

Energy Efficient Appliances and Gadgets

View the World Cup

IFA 2022

For complete coverage of IFA 2022 check back here for news, interviews and reviews and tech gadgets.

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Technology

ND10 Family Tech Member

The Neato D10 is a high end powerful robot vacuum for those of us who are not fans of cleaning floors. The very obvious D shaped device moves around the flat sweeping up debris efficiently.

My first impressions: speed, app, cleaning.

I tried the D10 without using the app to see how it worked. The docking process was straight forward. I hit the top “ON” button for a test try. There was a quick spin, off it went from one side to another. At first a bit awkward because the flat was unfamiliar terrain to the learning robot. On the device noise side, a constant whirl. The housing is smooth, simmering, sleek fast moving rolling and side brushes. The large 700 ml dust bin requires fewer emptying checks.

I got use to navigating the MyNeato app, but initially I found the somewhat software clumsy. Thankfully after looking at the reviews on Google Play and Apple Store I was not the only one. I had a struggle downloading to the OS System but had a smoother time with Android. The Bluetooth and Wi-Fi pairing functions were hassle free. Schedule the time runs and controlling the No Go Zones took a moment to learn, now it a simple touch on the screen. Before leaving on holiday, the floor space was set up for a run, while on the beach I clicked the button activating an Echo Mode session. The other cleaning mode is Turbo. However, I never use this feature because the energy saver speed is enough.


It is important to keep cables out of the way of the Neato. The smooth voice prompts comes across as the voice from the sci fi film “Logan Run” side.

After some runs the Neato D10 learned the layout of the floor. A complete cleaning took less than an hour, a short run was around thirty minutes.

Final Words

The Neato D10 is pricey compared to other robot cleaners. But this floor cleaning device become a part of my household tech family intelligently roaming the rooms three times a week.

Worth a buy.

For the latest technology news from IFA Berlin check back here.

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Technology

Biking in the 21st Century

Spring time in Berlin means bike riding. The cycling lanes have been widened to encourage more cycle ridership. I tried an electric Van Moof last year. The Dutch brand has made a name for itself in the mobile tech field with it’s uniquely designed durable city bikes. When you see the bike, you know it. 

This is not the 70’s Chopper bike, just jump on and ride. In 2021 there is no fun without connecting to a smartphone. Download the Van Moof application for the easy set up.

The most recognizable Van Moof feature is the integrated design with technology.

For some reason while Peddling around Mitte, it felt as if I were piloting Wonder Woman’s Invisible Jet, a smooth ride. The store employee told me to press a button for speed. I had a clear path, I tapped the Boost Button, suddenly, VROOM!

Digital Lock

There is no need for lock. HUH! With the high anti thief system; the stealth lock and alarm discourages event the most determined bike napper. All bikes can be tracked. If your 2.000 euro investment happens to get stolen, Van Moof track it down, then return it. If return is not possible, the company will give you a new one. I had a look of disbelief when the store attended told me about this feature.

What I did not like about the model I used was the recharging feature. Living on the 5thfloor, a 100 stir climb with a bike for recharging, not in my book! But there is a portable recharging unit.

Van Moof is trendy and practical and fun in a time of peddle power. But, the price could put many off. Secondly, there is a lot of tech in the bike. A Van Moof can only be repaired at on the company’s centers.

My conclusion, I really liked the Van Moof. Would I buy one? Tempting. Technology combined the simple pleasure of bike riding on the city streets.

If in Berlin head over to the Van Moff store in Mitte at 42 Torstrasse for a test ride. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and admire their product. 

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Fashion

A Home Bike

Snow and ice on the sidewalk make a long run difficult. Gyms are closed. Ninety minutes of my day remain blank. Staying at home is now normal. For gym enthusiasts locked up with pent up energy, what to do? Digital at home fitness devices have become popular. Personally, I am in the market for one, but I live in a 70 square meter apartment. Adjustments would have to made to fit in workout space. However, if my gym stays closed this entire year. Out goes the washer machine and bathroom sink. My hygiene may suffer but I’ll be in shape. Back to the subject of exercise equipment, The Paleoton Bike went from zero to a $2,500 lockdown tech trendsetter in less than a year.  Having exercise equipment in the living is no longer juvenile.

I decided to look for alternatives. After all, success breeds competitors. Hammer produces a $950 option. The Inspire has over 150 speed bike programs with app and small screen for a hard home workout. I have not tried the bike. Nonetheless, the Hammer in door cycle looks on paper.

As I wrote, if the fitness studios are still closed in September, I will make a decision concerning a home equipment investment. 

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Technology

CES 2021

Tech devices I liked from CES 21.