Accessories

The Katana Safety is a self-defense device you can attach to your smartphone

Three layers of defense anywhere you go

Published

January 7, 2019

Isa Rodriguez

Peace of mind is priceless. Especially for women, violence and sexual assault are still realities we arm ourselves against. Aside from traditional self-defense techniques, there are countless things you could do in today’s fast-paced, connected world to ensure you always have an added layer of security.

One of the things at CES 2019 that definitely caught my eye is a colorful buttoned device that attaches to your phone. This is the Katana Safety. This unassuming thing might just save your life.

This is the Pink Katana which, of course, matches my Not Pink Pixel 3. There are so many other color options to choose from. It sticks to your phone via reusable 3M tape. The whole idea is that, like your phone, it’s with you everywhere.

It’s basically a panic button — but it does so much more. Katana Safety has three layers of security: Its alarms, a 24/7 response team, and the Katana App.

Pulling that red tab at the bottom of the device activates a piercing alarm. Another alarm feature is connected to a built-in strap for your wrist. While wearing the strap, an alarm is automatically is triggered when you drop or let go of your phone. There’s also a silent alarm function that’s activated by pressing that round indented button on the Katana.

Once any of these alarms are activated in whatever way, the Katana also prompts the response team to call you and contact relevant emergency services as the app simultaneously and automatically sends a prompt and your location to a pre-set group of people. All this, without even needing to unlock your phone.

The Katana Safety device retails for a one-time fee of US$ 99. The subscription for the response center will set you back US$ 12 per month for an annual subscription, or US$ 15 if you pay on a per month basis. A small price to pay for peace of mind, if you ask me.

MORE ON CES 2019: GadgetMatch LIVE coverage

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.