Anker's new USB-C hub allows M1 MacBooks to connect to up to 3 external monitors

The Apple M1-powered MacBooks, by default, can only output to a single external monitor. Anker saw this issue and unveiled a new 10-in-1 USB-C hub that can allow the MacBook to support up to three external displays. The Anker 563 dock retails for US$249.99 (around CA$321) and includes USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm audio, and Ethernet. Of course, you'd want to learn more about the HDMI ports. One can go up to 4K but only up to 30Hz, a second HDMI port can support 2K at up to 60Hz, and a DisplayPort can support 2K at 60Hz. 

That 4K at 30Hz wouldn't feel particularly smooth to use. But as The Verge pointed out, if you're just watching video content or have productivity software opened there, you might not have an issue with that. Another limitation is that you'll need DisplayLink software to get the M1 MacBook to output to these many monitors, which could be a troublesome experience.

Click to read more ...

Anker introduces first MFi-certified iPhone 11 flash

Smartphone photography has developed leaps and bounds over the past few years. One of the areas it has been lagging in is flash photography. Smartphone accessory maker Anker hopes to remedy this for iPhone 11 users. The company is introducing its first flash accessory that has been certified by Apple's Made-for-iPhone (MFi) licensing program. It's possibly the first external flash accessory to get the certification. This accessory can integrate with Apple's hardware and software; specifically, it can work with the iPhone 11 series' built-in flash and stock Camera app as well as third-party camera apps.

The flash accessory will retail for US$49.99 (around CA$65) on Anker's site and Amazon sometime this month. It can last around 10,000 shots per charge and achieve twice the range as well as four times the brightness of the built-in flash. Anker will also ship the accessory with a detachable diffuser. 

Source: The Verge

Anker offers cheaper USB-C to Lightning cable with lifetime warranty

Apple recently started sanctioning official third-party USB-C to Lightning cables under its MFi program. And it seems the program is already offering a great deal. Anker just announced its PowerLine II USB-C to Lightning cable, which retails for US$15.99 (roughly CA$21) and is around $3 cheaper than Apple’s equivalent. Plus, this three-foot-long white cable comes with a lifetime warranty. The cable is available for pre-order now and is expected to start shipping at the end of the month.

Source: The Verge