Accessories

No strings attached: Sony H.ear On

Published

March 1, 2017

Isa Rodriguez

Our office door unlocks through an app that connects via Bluetooth — we don’t use keys anymore. To get a taxi, we simply ask Google Home to book one without even needing to go out or press any buttons. Even refrigerators can now talk !

Technology is moving at such a fast pace, and it shapes all aspects of our everyday lives. The beauty of being a millennial — having grown up in this day and age — is that I personally watched technology evolve. I was there through the age of dial-up internet to fiber connectivity, from the Nokia 3310 to, well, still the Nokia 3310 (17 years later), and from wired earphones to wireless Bluetooth ones!

Honestly, I was averse to the idea of wireless earphones when I first heard about them, and I’ve held true to that conviction for a long while. It seemed to me they were more inconvenient than they were useful. I mean sure, it’s “top-of-the-line technology” but then what?

That cord that connects my headphones to my gadget makes me feel safe; it’s the only way I know.

I tried the Sony H.ear On headphones only because they came in a very pretty red. (Apparently, it also comes in a really cute Hot Pink, but okay, red is nice, too.) These headphones connect to your music player via Bluetooth so in theory, it’s wireless and fuss-free.

They also came in Teal, which made the GadgetMatch Creative Director very happy.

Frankly, the idea of wearing headphones connected to nothing still seemed weird to me, but the “cuteness factor” trumped the weirdness, and so began my journey to being unattached (like, literally).

Sound-wise, the H.ear On is pretty solid. These headphones have noise-canceling technology, which makes for optimal music listening conditions — or just for tuning other people out.

Though they may seem big and eye-catching, these headphones sit comfortably atop my head. The headband is adjustable, and the whole thing is collapsible for easy storage in the matching pouch provided.

I learned quickly that wireless headphones weren’t that bad.

After hurdling the initial apprehension about being tied to nothing, it was actually pretty convenient. I could go wherever I wanted and do whatever I wanted without being bogged down by pesky cords. I could stand, jump around, or even leave as I please and nothing held me back.

It was a carefree, sound existence; a tech independence unlike any I’ve ever known — at least until as far as my Bluetooth connection could reach.

Frankly, I enjoyed using these headphones, even more than I thought I would. And to think I almost didn’t try them just because I was used to a certain idea of how things should be. If this proves anything, it’s that there’s premium in letting go — literally and figuratively.

I guess there’s a metaphor here somewhere. I know I’m talking about headphones, but I’m pretty sure this is applicable to other aspects of life.

Accessories

Jackery SolarSaga series: Free power for small devices

Portable solar panels can charge small gadgets directly

Published

March 22, 2026

GadgetMatch

As fuel prices continue to surge as of late, one of the ways to make up for the additional expenses is to turn to alternative power sources. That’s including solar power.

And Jackery is here to help Philippine consumers, with the availability of their portable SolarSaga panels.

These solar panels are an alternative to traditional and permanently installed rooftop solar panels. They are engineered for modern and mobile life with portable, lightweight, and sleek designs. They are built primarily to be set up and put away easily, and charge small devices directly.

Simply put the Jackery SolarSaga panels where sunlight is available, and it will convert up to 25% of sunlight into usable energy.

To charge small gadgets like phones and portable fans, or even smartwatches, the SolarSaga panels come with a USB-C and USB-A port.

Another way is connecting the SolarSaga to Jackery’s Explorer power stations like the Explorer 300 Plus or 1000 Plus.

From there, users can power up devices, essentially for free. On its own, the Jackery SolarSaga panels are available in 100W and 200W variants.

The panels are also IP68 rated for water and dust resistance. This makes them usable outdoors when brought to adventures like camping, picnics, or beach trips.

The panels are already available through Jackery’s Lazada and Shopee platforms, as well as Techroom’s Lazada and Shopee accounts.

Accessories

UGREEN adds new Nexode Pro power bank, charger to lineup

Intelligent displays, fast-charging, user-focused design

Published

March 22, 2026

GadgetMatch

UGREEN has expanded its Nexode Pro charging lineup with two new devices designed for the modern user. They are the Nexode Pro 10000mAh 55W Power Bank and Nexode Pro 100W 5-Port Charger.

These new offerings combine intelligent digital displays, fast-charging capabilities, and user-focused designs for reliable power — whether at the desk or on the move.

The Nexode Pro 10000mAh Power Bank is the ultimate travel companion, delivering strong charging performance in a compact and travel-friendly form.

It supports up to 45W single-port fast charge, meeting the industry standard for high-speed portable charging. It can reach up to 55W as well when charging compatible Xiaomi devices.

The accessory is equipped with two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and a built-in retractable USB-C cable. As such, it can power up to three small devices simultaneously without requiring extra cables.

With a rated capacity of 36Wh, the power bank also meets airline carry-on requirements.

Meanwhile, the UGREEN Nexode Pro 10W 5-Port Charger supports workstations. It has four USB-C ports, a USB-A port, and up to a 100W output.

It also has a built-in smart TFT display for easy power distribution monitoring.

Accessories

Hermès launches a $5,000 MagSafe charger

The charging brick is sold separately.

Published

March 20, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

Paddock Yoyo + Grand Paddock case

How extra are you as an Apple fan? No matter what you say, you’ll probably never be as extra as someone who buys a US$ 5,000 MagSafe charging case for their iPhone and Apple Watch. Hermès has just launched a series of leather chargers and cases specifically made for Apple fans.

Available now, Hermès has three types of MagSafe chargers for iPhone users. The cheapest one, the Paddock Solo, is a simple leather-bound puck that can charge a single device. The charger also has a braided 3.3ft USB cable. It costs an eye-watering US$ 1,250.

Paddock Solo charger

On the other hand, the Paddock Yoyo charger offers two charging zones for two devices simultaneously. Shaped like a yoyo (hence, the name), it allows users to roll the cable into a convenient stack. It costs US$ 1,750.

Finally, the Paddock Duo is a charging pad that allows for two devices simultaneously. It just doesn’t have a pocket for the cable. It likewise costs US$ 1,750.

Paddock Duo charger

Now, if you want to upgrade your pricey charging kit even further, Hermès has two cases for them: the Petit Paddock case and the Grand Paddock case.

The Petit Paddock case, as the name suggest, is a snug leather case that fits only the charger (and a brick, if bundled with the Yoyo). The charger and case combo will set you back by US$ 3,725 for the Solo, and US$ 4,225 for either the Duo or the Yoyo.