Tech to Keep Your Fitness Goals on Track

Keep your New Year’s resolutions on track with these helpful tech products. With a wide variety of activities, these handy gadgets can help make sure you are on pace for the best year yet!

Watches

No matter the activity you choose, keeping track of time is usually a key factor in achieving your goal. Whether doing intervals on the track, or going for a 30 minute cruise on your bike, a watch is a great accessory to help. The Timex Ironman is the true classic, introduced in 1986, the original sport watch is still as practical today as it was then. With a timer, stopwatch, and alarm, it performs all the tasks you need to track your workout times.

Timex Ironman Watch

Timex Ironman Transit – Blue

Timex Ironman Transit – Pink

Smart Watch

If you want a watch that can go the extra mile, a smart watch is what you need. With a variety of options on the market with various features, make sure to compare options to find the one best suited for your needs. Smart watches have added abilities like tracking your route using GPS, a heart rate monitor, or a step counter. Some can also sync with your phone allowing you to receive text messages or calls on the go.

Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Multisport GPS Watch

Timex Ironman R300 GPS Smartwatch

Fitbit Charge 4SE – Granite

Fitbit Charge 4 – Black

Satellite Messenger

For those who like to venture into the backcountry to exercise, a satellite messenger is a handy tool to ensure you keep safe. With the ability to connect with love ones beyond the reach of cell service, these are great for back country runs, bike rides or adventures.

Spot Gen4 Satellite GPS Messenger

Sports Headphones

Getting inspired during your fitness routine is another important element to remain focused. Whether listening to music or podcasts, a pair of dedicated sport headphones is a must have. Specially designed to stay on while you move, you’ll never have to worry about them falling out. Being waterproof is a big plus too, ensuring you can get sweaty or wet during your workout. These options will ensure your music mix keeps you going, or your favourite podcast keeps your mind off the pain.

JBL Under Armour Flash Sport True Wireless In-Ear Headphones

JBL Reflect Flow True Wireless Sport

Smart Speaker

If you’re looking to get active at home, then consider a smart speaker. Changing songs, or podcasts while in the middle of your workout routine has never been easier with their voice activated commands.
Pro tip: You can also set yourself reminders via voice, for that to-do list item you only remember while struggling through those last few reps.

Google Nest Mini Voice Assistant Speaker

Amazon Echo Show 8 Voice Assistant Display

Apple HomePod mini

Games

Getting active doesn’t always require endless exercise. There are many games available to get you moving. If you’ve ever played Just Dance, you know that it can be a workout in its own right. There is also the Nintendo Switch Ring fit, which gets you moving while on a mystical adventure. You can even track your pulse estimate with its built-in IR motion sensor.

Just Dance 2021

Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure

 

We hope this gave some ideas for great products to help you achieve your fitness goals for 2021.

Gift Ideas for Tech and Home Entertainment

Someone on your list loves tech, and you need to find them the perfect gift? Fret not, we are here to help. With all your tech in one spot, we make finding that perfect gift, easy. With options like block rocking home surround sounds, the hottest tablets & computers, head thumping earphones, and everything in between, we are sure to help you find that special something. If you are looking for gifts for the photo lover, check out our photographer gift ideas blog here.

Tablets

A tablet has become an extension of many peoples’ lives. Great for streaming, reading, connecting, and just about everything really. If you have one, you know they are the perfect gift for those who don’t.

Huawei MediaPad

Settle in with your favourite apps and streaming content with a Huawei MediaPad. available with 9.6 and 10.1 screens, and various configurations, you are sure to find the perfect match for your needs and budget.

Samsung Galaxy Tablets

With a large selection of options on the market, the Samsung Galaxy line up has a tablet for everyone. From the ultra portable 8 inch Tab A, to the 12.4 inch S7+ powerhouse, stream, scroll and create with ease. Storage options from 32gb all the way to 128gb will ensure you have enough space for all your content while on the move.

Computers

Asus Vivobook

If shopping for a student or young professional, this ASUS VivoBook laptop has the upper hand when it comes to work or study. The AMD Quad Core R5 processor and 8GB of system memory ensure seamless multitasking and dependable operation, while the AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics bring out the best in videos and games. This lightweight laptop comes equipped with a 256GB solid-state drive for convenient file storage. Boasting a 15.6-inch Full HD frameless NanoEdge display, this ASUS VivoBook laptop delivers exceptional picture quality.

Acer Chromebook

For those who want the traditional key board, but with streamlined functionality to tackle assignments at school or home, this Acer Chromebook 514 laptop is the answer. The quad-core Intel Celeron processor delivers dependable power for everyday use, while the 4GB of standard memory provides convenient storage for spreadsheets, photos and documents. This laptop boasts a 14-inch Full HD ComfyView display for an immersive viewing experience. With four USB ports, this Acer Chromebook 514 laptop makes it easy to customize your setup with external drives, wireless accessories and other peripherals. .

LG 22 inch LED Gaming Monitor

Complete your gaming computer setup with this LG 21.5-inch gaming monitor. Full HD resolution delivers clear, detailed images, while the AMD Radeon FreeSync technology and 1ms response time help prevent tearing and ghosting for seamless playback. Flicker-free technology works to reduce eyestrain to keep you in the game longer. VESA mount compatibility allows for versatile placement options. This LG 21.5-inch gaming monitor comes equipped with VGA and HDMI video inputs for effortless integration with your current computer configuration.

Google Nest Hub

Give the gift of connectivity. Control all your smart devices with this Google Nest hub. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you connect to your home automation system, while the Bluetooth technology pairs with your smartphone or tablet for access to streaming content. A touchscreen display makes it easy to navigate through alerts, upcoming activities and menu options. Compatibility with Google Assistant offers advice, answers and other helpful information. This Google Nest hub boasts a mute button, so you can enjoy added privacy when not using the voice command features.

Thinkware F70 Dash Cam

Give the avid driver peace of mind with the successor to the best-selling Thinkware F50 Dash Cam. The F70 builds on top of a winning recipe to offer the same discreet and compact design, coupled with an all-new image sensor for improved recordings in low light conditions, and the latest Energy Saving Mode for increased Parking Surveillance duration.

Sony 75-Inch 4k HDR Ultra HD Android TV

For the streaming lover, consider bringing vibrant colour and stunning clarity to movies and shows with this 75-inch Sony 4K Ultra HD LED smart TV. X-Motion Clarity technology enhances action films and sporting events, while the Ambient Optimization technology automatically adjusts the picture and sound for a more immersive home theatre experience. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility makes it easy to find content on your favourite streaming media sites using this 75-inch Sony 4K Ultra HD LED smart TV.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround Soundbar

Enjoy the quality of the cinema in the comfort of your own home with this JBL Bar 5.1 soundbar. Bluetooth connectivity supports online and music streaming, while JBL MultiBeam technology powers high-quality audio around your family room. The wireless subwoofer boosts the bass and optimizes your audio, delivering incredible surround sound. Including a wall-mount bracket kit and hardware, this JBL Bar 5.1 soundbar lets easily you set up your own home theatre in almost any room.

Skullcandy Mood Boost Headphones

If you’re looking for something bright and unique, in a black and white world of earbuds, these Skullcandy Sesh Mood Boost true wireless earbuds are the answer. Integrated controls let you adjust the volume and answer incoming calls hands-free, while a long-lasting battery and included charging case deliver up to 10 hours of use. Noise-isolating technology keeps ambient sounds to a minimum. An IP55 rating offers sweat, water and dust resistance, so you can use these Skullcandy Sesh Mood Boost true wireless earbuds during morning runs or outdoor training sessions.

Panasonic Earbuds

Panasonic true wireless Bluetooth earphones are sleek and great as a stocking stuffer. The long-lasting battery design delivers up to 20 hours of uninterrupted playback, and the convenient storage case doubles as a charger for a portable power source. A high-performance MEMS microphone makes these earphones ideal for answering incoming voice calls hands-free. Equipped with premium 6mm drivers, these Panasonic true wireless Bluetooth earphones bring sharp, detailed sound to music, podcasts and voice calls.

Vinyl Records

If you want to get something extra special, why not their favourite album on vinyl? With a wide selection of new titles and classics, we have vinyl records for all musical taste. Nothing better than listening to an album on vinyl on a cozy winter eve.

We hope you have found something for everyone on your list. Be sure to check out our other gift guides for more great ideas this holiday season.

 

London Drugs Whistler Tech Conference Recap – Exciting New Products

Every fall, the top London Drugs Experts come together for an event where our vendors show off all the new exciting tech releases hitting store shelfs before the new year. This year’s event was held in the picturesque mountain village of Whistler BC. With over 60 vendors showcasing their goods, the show floor was packed with exciting and innovative products! From new cameras, TV’s, phones and audio equipment to gaming, and an abundant assortment of accessories too, there was something for everyone. We’ve highlighted some of the tech items that we found especially exciting and hope you will too!

  1. Kodak Smartphone camera accessories – Estimated arrival early November

Kodak was the name in photography once upon a time. So much so that in Quebec the term “Kodak” means camera. This was the company that invented the digital camera after all. They have drifted off since the transition to digital, but the good news is they are slowly making a comeback. Their new smartphone camera accessories help you get the most out of the camera in your cell phone. With a portrait light that connects directly to your phone, a mini tripod and multiple lens adapters, the possibilities to elevate your phone photography are endless. With a macro lens adapter allowing you to focus extremely close up, a fisheye adapter to provide a 170-degree field of view (including black corner vignette) and an ultra-wide lens adapter to add that little extra expanse to your image. Look for these to hit shelves at London Drugs sometime in November.

  1. Logixx Wireless QI Canvas Duo – Estimated arrival mid November

Logixx are quickly proving themselves as a smartphone accessory powerhouse. Their Peels Air Pods Case allows for infinite personalization, and have become very popular, as have their wireless charging accessories. New out on the market is their Wireless QI Canvas Duo. No longer will you be faced with the decision to take turns charging devices or buy multiple charging mats. The new Dual Charge Mat is sleek, modern and features two sides, allowing you to charge multiple devices at the same time. Now your watch and phone can charge in harmony. A great bedside accessory that will look sleek in any space.

  1. Logiix Wireless Suction Battery Pack – Available now

Logixx’s battery packs are practical solutions for those extended periods when charging isn’t an option. The suction battery pack sticks to the back of your phone and will charge it wirelessly. Building off feedback from their previous model, they have made the new version a little shorter, while still carrying the same power. This was done to allow camera usage while the phone is charging. A great way to make sure you can continue snapping and charging without worry, when previously your battery would be ready to give out.

  1. Nikon Golf Rangefinder – Available online / via special order in-store

Nikon have a long-storied history in optics. You might know Nikon primarily for their cameras and binoculars, but did you know they also make time-lapse, long term live cell imagery systems for medical research in addition to personal glasses? Nikon does many things and does them incredibly well, and this golf rangefinder is no exception. With 2 models available, you can be sure that avid golfer in your life can determine the distance to the pin accurately every time. Bonus: they are weatherproof, so those rainy days on the course are no problem.

 

  1. Polaroid Originals Lab Printer – Estimated arrival mid-November

Polaroid: the name speaks for itself. Instant colour positive images from a time when images lived in film canisters for days. Now imagine taking that selfie from your Instagram and printing it as a Polaroid. Imagine no more, as the new Polaroid Originals Lab Printer does exactly that. Just lay your phone on top with the image displayed on your screen, press the button, and instantly you have a Polaroid of the same image. Using the Polaroid Originals app on your phone, you can even add your own custom edits prior to printing. The design screams Polaroid, as it is styled in that classic blocky polaroid fashion. This printer is a must-have for anyone who truly loves the nostalgic and tangible experience of a Polaroid but doesn’t want to sacrifice the ease of smartphone photography.

  1. Arcade 1up GamesGolden Tee available now, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles  available for pre-order

Arcade 1Up is bringing the essence of the arcade back and into your home. Their freestanding and countertop models are reviving the arcade experience for a new generation. Back in the day, the original arcade games were a social experience where you engaged with friends. In a world where online gaming has become the norm, the rebirth of these classic arcades is being well received. This fall London Drugs will be adding to our Arcade 1Up offerings with two new classic titles: Golden Tee golf and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Keep an eye out for these on display in your local store between now and the end of November.

  1. Marshall Headphones – Available now

Marshall guitar amps are synonymous with rock and roll. The iconic nameplate plastered in the center of a large amp stack is legendary. With all the headphones on the market, something that stands out as unique is the Marshall headphone line. Offering excellent noise cancelling properties combined with exceptional audio quality, they are an option not to overlook. Add in the vintage styling with modern touches in all the right places, and you have an awesome pair of headphones that really stand out from the crowd.

  1. Sony PlayStation VR – Available now

VR isn’t anything new, but if you have been on the fence about getting on board, consider the Sony Playstation VR system. It comes in as a more affordable option when compared to many PC options on the market and is equipped with a decent library of games to enjoy. The headset fits comfortably, is easily adjustable and when combined with headphones, becomes a completely immersive playing experience. Following along on screen while others play is just as entertaining too. With titles such as Everybody’s Golf VR, Firewall Zero Hour, Tetris Effect, Gran Turismo Sport, and Astro Bot to name a few, the library of games available is continually growing, and includes something for everyone to enjoy.

  1. Wandrd Prvke Photography Backpack – Available online

Have you searched aimlessly for a camera bag that is both functional and looks good? That is the guiding principle behind everything Wandrd makes. Their bags are a great option for the traveller looking to have a fluid combination of fashion and function for their camera gear and personal items. The integrated camera cube makes removing all your camera equipment quick and simple, and transferring it from one bag to another a breeze. Take a look at the many options here.

 

This is just a small sampling of what was on display at our tech conference in Whistler. There is a lot more in-store that our LDExperts will be thrilled to tell you all about. Hopefully, this list made you as excited as we are about all the new products coming to store soon! Drop by any London Drugs location and speak to an LDExpert today, or visit our website to find the latest and greatest tech. What new tech products have you most excited this fall? Let us know in the comments below.

 

13 Back to School Problems SOLVED

The new school year is now underway, and if you’re struggling to fully adjust, you’re not alone. It can be a stressful and busy time of year. To help ease into things this September, here are 13 tips to solve common issues you might be experiencing with the kids now back at school.

Problem #1

Tough Mornings: The days are getting shorter, so the mornings will be getting darker.

Solution: Wake up ready to take on the school run with the Philips Wakeup Somneo Light. It will wake you gently with a simulated sunrise that’s clinically proven to help you feel more rested.

Problem #2

I don’t have enough computer storage space: Too many kids shows taking up valuable storage space and there’s not enough room on the computer’s hard drive for their study projects.

Solution: A good external hard drive is the answer. Take a look at the Seagate Expansion Portable 8TB hard drive or the Transcend 4TB StoreJet and free up some of those valuable gigabytes.

Problem #3

Protecting your computer: The kids are a little less than delicate with their tech equipment.

Solution: The sturdy Asus C202SA Chromebook has been designed to withstand rough-and-tumble handling. It has a robust rubber-wrapped protective guard, it can survive a “drop test” from a height of 3.9 feet, and it can repel up to 66cc of liquid.

Problem #4

Too many bags, not enough hands: How can kids carry it all?

Solution: The Targus 17″ Voyager Laptop Backpack not only has a top-loading padded notebook section that can accommodate notebooks with up to 17” screens—it also has a large front cooler compartment for convenient food storage.

 

Problem #5

I don’t know anything about tech: How am I supposed to know what to buy?

Solution: London Drugs’ friendly tech experts are available in store to discuss technology needs for students. Ask them about laptops, portable memory devices, Bluetooth wireless headphones, software and accessories.

Problem #6

I don’t have time to shop: I’m too busy to go to the store.

Solution: Shop from the comfort of your home online at LondonDrugs.com and have your order ready for pickup in-store within two hours. London Drugs also offers free standard shipping on orders over $75.

Problem #7

Tired eyes: I worry about how long my kids are staring at screens.

Solution: The Asus 31.5inch Curved Monitor has a blue light filter that protects eyes from harmful blue light. It emits low blue light levels and is certified flicker-free. Add to that 25% sharper images and up to 77% more onscreen space – and you can see why this is the crème de la crème of monitors.

Problem #8

Restless kids: Are your kids bored of studying in their rooms?

Solution: Let them study on the go with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. Its fast processor and expandable memory provide an efficient platform for multitasking. It even comes with an S pen that never needs to be charged. Or choose an 11-inch Apple iPad Pro with its all-new, all-screen design to get the most from working on the go.

Problem #9

I don’t know what to do with old devices: How do I recycle?

Solution: Students upgrading electronic devices can recycle their old devices through London Drugs’ What’s the Green Deal? in-store comprehensive recycling program.

Problem #10

My house is noisy: The kids can’t focus on the podcast or play they need to listen to.

Solution: Treat their ears to some JVC Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling On-Ear Headphones. Bluetooth wireless technology lets them pair their smartphone or tablet for easy access to their saved playlists, while noise-cancelling technology helps block out all the noise fellow family members are making.

Problem #11

My kid’s workspace is boring: How can I brighten up their study area?

Solution: Great for homework, to-do lists and doodling, the Quartet Glass Desktop Dry-Erase Pad is fun and functional. This frameless desktop pad adds a convenient feature to any workspace and doesn’t stain, scratch or dent.

Problem #12

Busy lives: Trying to fit in time for family fun.

Solution: Try these cool retro Arcade 1Up Games, fun for almost any age. Relive the glory days of arcade gaming in the comfort of your own home with the family.

Problem #13

Back to school is expensive: And I don’t want to pay more than the other parents.

Solution: Keep costs low and get extra peace of mind with London Drugs’ price match guarantee.

5 Tiny Tech Toys You’ll Love

Sometimes products come along that are so amazing and so useful, you just can’t live without them. These tiny tech toys won’t take up a lot of space but they will add a whole lot of functionality — and fun — to your life. Check out our tiny tech must-haves for 2019.

DJI OSMO Pocket Camera

DJI OSMO Pocket Camera

This candy-bar sized hand-held camera will help you capture all of life’s big moments whether you want video or still photos. This is the smallest handheld camera DJI has ever designed and while it’s tiny in size, it delivers quality video and detailed images. The OSMO Pocket Camera shoots 4K/60fps video at 100 Mbps and photos at 12 MP.

Ring Video Doorbell Security Camera

Ring Video Doorbell Security Camera

The Ring Video Doorbell Security Camera allows you to connect your doorbell to a video system, which you can monitor from your PC, smartphone, or tablet. With mobile alerts and two-way talk you can answer the door and speak to your visitors from anywhere. The system also includes motion sensors, infrared night vision, and live, view on-demand video and audio. 

Furo Music Headband/Mask

Furo Music Headband

Here’s a fun gift for the little ones in your life. The Furo Music Headband is a set of comfy headphones, worn the same way you would wear a headband. It comes in fun colours with animal motifs and is soft to the touch. The headbands also feature a high-quality speaker and a built-in microphone so your mini tycoon can take calls on the go. 

Hewlett Packard Sprocket Portable ZINK Photo Printer

HP Portable Photo Printer

Next time you take that perfectly shareable pic, you can print off copies to share with your friends and family. HP’s Portable ZINK Photo Printer weighs just 6 ounces and is the size of a smartphone! This fun, sleek printer instantly prints 2 x 3 inch photos from your smartphone or tablet with the HP Sprockett App and Bluetooth technology. 

Google Home Mini Voice Assistant Speaker

Google Home Mini Assistant

Google’s Home Mini Voice Assistant Speaker is the assistant you never knew you needed. Ask it questions, like “Google, will I need an umbrella today?” or “Google, what does my day look like on Saturday?” Your Google Assistant will have all the answers and will become an invaluable member of your home. And this assistant doesn’t ever ask for a raise.

Whether you’re equipping yourself for fun, safety, or your everyday needs, London Drugs has all the tiny tech you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.

CES – Day 2

Here we are on the second day of CES 2019 in Las Vegas, and the overarching theme this year appears to be “Artificial Intelligence” and “5G”. In essence the technology is an imitation of it’s human creators in that 5G provides the “backbone” for the AI “brain” to exist upon. While some may consider the idea that a machine is able to learn from prior experience and apply this knowledge to new situations a bit far fetched, guess what?! This is now a reality.

Last night we heard from Nvidia about how they use AI and deep learning to increase efficiency and image quality in their latest RTX graphics cards. Today we heard this term many times to describe how AI is being used to help create platforms that have more natural speech dialogues, create predictive responses for autonomous vehicles or as we saw in LG’s announcement, the ability to determine for the user the best sound profiles to use based on the type of content and the lay out of the room.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg.

With long lines of eager reporters, we got to see a number of the new technologies that are going to depend on high speed connections and enormous quantities of data. Think about being able to download a full 4k video in seconds – nearly 20x faster than current 4G technology. In order to accommodate this LG has partnered with Qualcomm to bring 5G to North America in 2019.

Boy are we going to need it.

Both LG and Samsung are bringing out 8K OLED TV’s this year, each with their own subset of content including airplay 2.0 and better integrated AI’s. Samsung 2019 TV’s will also include the ability to utilize Apple iTunes Movies & TV. Flexibility and positioning increases exponentially when you look at LG’s new Signature OLED TV R. The first roll up TV with integrated sound bar.

Like last year, manufacturers are giving their customers the choice of which platform to use with their products along with the flexibility to connect them with an every expanding category of connected home products.

Speaking of which, how does the idea of a capsule based home craft beer brewing system sound? Intrigued? We certainly were! With the ability to brew up to 5 different types of beer, this Keurig looking machine takes just 2 weeks to complete the entire fermentation to consumption process in the comfort of your own home.

Sounds like the perfect end to a long day of reporting with lots more coming in the next few days so stay tuned!

Diane Williamson & Ron Fraser

CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2019

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to attend the biggest and best technology conference in the whole world? Then read on, as Diane Williamson and myself, Ron Fraser, attend CES 2019 (The Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas all next week! We are computer department managers for London Drugs in Victoria B.C., and technology is our passion! We will be posting here daily, and you can follow us on Twitter @Londondrugs. We will also have live reports from Jan 7th, to Jan 11th on CFAX 1070 radio, and you can listen live, on cfax1070.com. We want to find things to tell you about that are exciting, practical, amazing, inspiring, and just maybe life changing technology that you can use!

How big is this show? This info sheet will give you a good idea!

This show is the biggest event of its kind in the world, and it happens every January in Las Vegas. The reason it’s such a big deal, is that a lot of CEOs and people that can make buying decisions head to this particular show. A lot of the products that you see in the stores, and in fact in our stores are decided on from attendees to this show. Many vendors bring their biggest and their best inventions and products to show at this show. All the big automakers are there every year, and they unveil the newest and greatest that they have in new vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and electric or hydrogen powered vehicles as well.

In recent years, aging in place technology, as well as home appliances and home conveniences with smart home connected technology has been featured very strongly in many of the display venues here. We will try to focus on the things that people will find really interesting or useful during the course of the CES. And as always, the large electronics manufacturers and camera manufacturers will be there showing the biggest and best televisions, and imaging devices and cameras for consumers and professionals alike.

We hope you will read and follow along with us here, and on social media and CFAX radio, and enjoy what we have to present!

Now, on to Las Vegas and two days of truly exciting press conferences! Talk to you soon!

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