Gadgets: Tri-fold projector

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When handheld trifold 3-in-1 chargers came out, I thought they were so cool and efficient. Now, I can hold a projector. I'm referring to the Aurzen Zip tri-fold ultra-portable projector, which transforms any space into your personal cinema by mirroring your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Aurzen claims to have created the world's first tri-fold portable projector, the pocket-sized -- yes, pocket-sized -- Z-shaped handheld projector. Who knows if it is the world's first, but it's the first I've seen. It delivers a full 1280 x 720p quality on the go and is especially helpful in areas where you need a projector quickly.

Folded up, it measures 3.3 by 3.1 by 1 inch and weighs just 9.98 ounces. Inside is a quick-charging 5000 mAh (USB-C) battery, Bluetooth 5.4, dual 1-watt speakers, and a 100-lumen brightness. The Aurzen Zip projector opens up like a deck of cards in a second. Austen recommends not exceeding a 90-degree single limit.

Once you pair it via Wi-Fi to your device (Android, Windows, iOS, macOS), it's ready to go; both the focus and keystone are automatically set. An internal battery powers it and can remain connected to a power source. It's rated to get about 1.5 hours of play on its own before it needs a power boost. The Aurzen Zip also has Bluetooth 5.4, which allows connection to your other speaker sources.

It projects in a 16:9 aspect ratio and has a plus/minus 25-degree automatic keystone correction. The content you stream is limited to the source. Due to copyright restrictions from services such as Disney+, Hulu and Netflix, it cannot be wirelessly mirrored. This is not restricted to the Austen Zip; it's universal for all projector brands.

I used plug-and-play mirrored from my iPhone via AirPlay. It projects crisp, clear images from what Auzren says is the world's thinnest 8 mm HD optical engine and tiniest DLP microchip. I had it projected playing YouTube videos and other content from my phone (off of my iCloud) from about four feet to a white wall with the auto focus and keystone working well. Adjusting it to any room I put to the test was simple, always keeping it a few feet from the projection site. The hinges on the Zip are easy to adjust the angle, and as mentioned, the autofocus and keystone are corrected automatically.

The sound is more than acceptable from the internal speakers, but it is much better connected to a portable Bluetooth speaker or headphones. I can see the uses for this being limitless, including education in a class or students at home, work, play, and especially while camping. For work, I could see it being a great tool for people doing a PowerPoint presentation or something similar at a client's office.

The Auzren CastPlay wireless HDMI dongle for Zip, which will be available soon, makes a connection even easier to access other streaming services. It plugs into gaming units or TV boxes to stream to the Zip. The MagPlay dual-sided mount for Zip will give the projector a vacuum suction to attach it to walls or other flat surfaces securely.

Aurzen Zip is now available for pre-order for $329. Shipping is expected to begin around April 14. It's available in black or titanium gold.

https://aurzen.com/collections/zip-series-portable-projector/products/aurzen-zip-tri-fold-portable-projector

Assistive Audio Sleep Earplugs are available to help get a peaceful night's sleep.

The low-profile earplugs are said to work great for those who sleep on their side or back. While using them, you should expect a noise reduction level of 27 dB. To do this, they block out disruptive sounds, from snoring to street noise, allowing for the luxury of uninterrupted sleep.

You can choose multiple tips (small, medium and large sizes) that conform to the ear's natural shape to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. They are made with hypoallergenic silicone for comfort, so they will not irritate your ear canals while in place.

A lightweight, pocket-sized spring-loaded carry case is included, which is excellent for travel. According to Assistive Audio, it meets the EN 352 Hearing Protection Standard for certified protection and reliability.

https://www.assistive-audio.com $14.99