Emily Bibb
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Emily Bibb

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Editor's Pick

8 Apps to Vocab and Grammar Greatness

School is now in session!

School is now in session! If you're heading back to the classroom — or just want to brush up on some essential writing skills — then keep those reading and writing skills on point with these IQ-boosting iOS apps.

Whether you're a high schooler preparing for an AP English Language or Literature exam or a college student in a prose seminar, keep up your intellectual fitness this Summer and download our picks for the best English and grammar apps.

  • SAT World Slam ($4)— Take on the SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, or TOEFL with this vocabulary app that uses humor and rhyming to help you commit tough words to memory. It's also a great app if you just want to expand your vocabulary.
  • Literary Analysis Guide ($2) — Break down poetry, prose, and rhetoric with the app's elements of literary analysis "wheels" that visualize different terms and styles. It's an excellent guide for all levels of schooling.
  • Grammar Girl's App ($2) — Get instant access to the popular grammar podcast reviewing "quick and dirty tips for better writing" such as "5 Uncommon Figures of Speech to Spice Up Your Writing".

A Shakespearean guide, vocab quizzes, and more after the break.

Geek Fashion

Archie Gets Fashion Forward

Comics have hit the catwalk, and we couldn't be happier!


Comics have hit the catwalk, and we couldn't be happier! Thanks to Charlotte Olympia — who previously made our cosmic dreams come true — an Archie-inspired accessory collection is finally a reality. Set to launch Nov. 1, Charlotte Olympia's resort '14 collection throws back to the classic Archie Comics as its inspiration. If you're willing to pay a pretty price (Betty and Veronica are so worth it right?) you can score an Archie clutch, wedges, or our personal favorite, blue suede pumps. Start the countdown now, and expect to see these products available exclusively at Charlotte Olympia Mayfair, Manhattan, and Beverly Hills stores and online. Nordstrom, On Pedder, and Mytheresa.com will also carry the pieces.

Download of the Day

Download PopAGraph to Make Photos, Well, You Know

Back in the good ol' days, an Instagram filter was enough to make your photos standout, but not anymore.

Back in the good ol' days, an Instagram filter was enough to make your photos standout, but not anymore. This is where PopAGraph comes in. It is a free masking app that adds fun colors and 3D effects to instantly make your photos pop. With image-recognition technology (sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie!), PopAGraph works to isolate the subject of your image by applying filters separate to the background, which creates a dramatic contrast. You can then get fancy with frames, shapes, and text. When all is said and done, upload your gem to Instagram (or other social media channels) and watch the hearts roll in.

digital life

How to Go on a Summer (Digital) Break!

This Summer, why not consider a different type of break — a break from the digital!

This Summer, why not consider a different type of break — a break from the digital! While the idea of unplugging seems nearly impossible, hitting the OFF button could be the best thing that's happened to the season since s'mores. Although ditching the devices for a week may not be an option, a simple night out with friends and without Instagram could be just what the digital doctor ordered. If you've found it hard to go minutes without checking, scrolling, and clicking, try these four ways to get back in the moment and make the most of Summer.

  • Unplug on Vacation: Since Summer and vacations often go hand in hand, use your break as an opportunity to unplug. While you may not be checking your work email, take it a step further and try to unplug from it all. This means leaving your phone behind as you enjoy a day at the beach and logging off Facebook and Twitter. Because unplugging is hard to during the work week, days off are the perfect excuse to turn off the tech — even after the plane has landed.
  • Hang by the Water: The heat lends itself to lots of activities that aren't the most tech friendly. If you're having a hard time unplugging, try doing more activities like rafting, swimming, and hiking — anything that isn't kind on your tech. Because AppleCare doesn't cover water damage, you have no option but to leave your phone (and waterproof cases) at home! If you still want to capture the moment, keep it "old school" with a disposable camera. Chances are, you'll be so in the moment, that the memories will easily be remembered!
  • Host a Tech-Free Party: With several opportunities for picnics and BBQs, now is the perfect time to relax with friends. But here's the catch, make it cell phone free! Rather than uploading pictures to Instagram the entire time, leave the phones behind and simply spend time with each other . . . not your mutual Facebook friends.
  • Head to Camp: If things between you and your tech are really getting out of hand, it may be time to head to camp — digital detox camp that is. Camp Grounded is a Summer camp for adults where you can "go to unplug, get away, and be kids again." No cell phones, computers, or clocks; just activities like rock climbing and campfires. Campers go off the grid for the entire weekend and truly take a break from anything and everything digital. Check us in!
Geek gear

Simple and Sleek: Tech Accessories For the Minimalist

While it's easy to get carried away with elaborate design, sometimes less is more, especially when it comes to tech.

While it's easy to get carried away with elaborate design, sometimes less is more, especially when it comes to tech. Seeking accessories that are both sleek and stylish, we found a variety of options that any minimalist would covet. Whether you're looking to protect or store, these pieces are made from quality materials like leather and wood that lend themselves to a modern aesthetic. Take a look below and find a design that will add a streamlined touch to your home, wardrobe, or office.


The lowdown on the accessories after the break.

summer

6 Waterproof Speakers That Will Make Your Summer

A day at the beach is good; a day at the beach with your favorite music is great.
6 Waterproof Speakers That Will Make Your Summer

A day at the beach is good; a day at the beach with your favorite music is great. Seeking to find a way to make the latter a possibility, we found six durable speakers that no outdoor adventure should go without. Each waterproof and extremely durable, it's their style and function that set them apart. With options fit for camping, the pool, or both, you'll be set to finish the Summer on a high note.

Tech Style

Tech Accessories Students Will Love!

With school days fast approaching, we have just the gifts to celebrate hitting the books again in techie style.

With school days fast approaching, we have just the gifts to celebrate hitting the books again in techie style. Whether you're looking to give a gift to those heading off to college or just want a little workweek pick-me-up (no shame in that), these tech gifts are perfect. A USB keychain will make printing trips to the computer lab a breeze, while the Roku will be the perfect study break complement. Check out the list below; there's even something that could "technically" prevent the freshman 15 . . .

  • USB Key Chain ($50): With all the group projects and trips to the computer lab, this cute USB drive will come in handy.
  • Cable Clips ($7): Cable clips are a convenient and bright way to keep cords out of the way and organized.
  • iPhone Camera Lens ($25): An attachable fish-eye lens is a fun way to capture memories with friends.
  • Computer Bag ($118): This bag is a stylish way to protect a laptop while you're going from the library to class. The detachable strap is a huge bonus.
  • Wallet Case ($40): This cell phone case does double duty and ensures that student IDs are always be on hand.
  • Roku Streaming Stick ($90): Give the gift of endless entertainment with the (tiny) Roku streaming stick. All you need is Internet access to stream movies from services like Netflix and Amazon — no cords or cable service needed!
  • Up by Jawbone ($130): Keep the freshman 15 off by staying fit with this bracelet that tracks everything from physical activity to what you eat and drink.
  • Wireless Speakers ($100): Bright and colorful, these wireless speakers are perfect for both the dorm room and Spring break.
  • Headphones ($100): Sleek headphones will block out a noisy roommate or help to stay in the zone during finals week.
digital culture

6 Breaking-News Apps That Keep You in the Know

Extra! Extra! We found the best mobile news apps you need to download — now.

Extra! Extra! We found the best mobile news apps you need to download — now. Whether you're looking for breaking news, summarized snippets, or updates from your favorite podcasts, these apps are here to help. They're all extremely user-friendly and customizable, so you no longer need to fret about being out of the loop (as if you ever were!). Check out our six favorites and never miss a beat again!

digital culture

How to Design a Simple, Stylish Blog

When it comes to starting a website, design is crucial and sometimes less is more.

When it comes to starting a website, design is crucial and sometimes less is more. Not only is a clean and user-friendly site easy to navigate, it allows your content to standout and be seen. If you're in a the process of starting your own blog, website, or portfolio, we've pulled our favorite, minimalist templates from top platforms like Wordpress and Squarespace. Since customization and coding can get complicated and pricey, these free options are great way to build your brand in minutes without a hiring a professional.

Gadgets

Chromatic Cameras Are the New Black (and the New Instagram)

Simply put, the Pentax Q7 puts basic monochromatic cameras to shame.

Simply put, the Pentax Q7 puts basic monochromatic cameras to shame. A camera unlike its standard black counterparts, this fashionable model is completely customizable and our latest obsession.

How custom, you might ask? Take your pick from over 100 colors, seven specialty lenses, and 19 smart effects and filters (take that, Instagram!). It also boasts — according to Pentax — the smallest, lightest interchangeable lens system in the world, proof that bigger is not always better.


So, if you're looking to take your camera fashion beyond that Etsy camera strap or elevate your street-style snaps to an entirely new level, look no further. It will run you about $500, but considering the variety of functions and capabilities — including a dreamy pinhole camera effect — it just might be worth it.

Tech Style

Travel Through Space and Time Without Leaving the House

Travel back in time and into space with vintage art that is out of this world.
Travel Through Space and Time Without Leaving the House

Travel back in time and into space with vintage art that is out of this world. While these posters are fitting for the serious space enthusiast, even grounded art lovers will find themselves drawn to these bright, quirky prints. Inspired by dreams of rocket ship tours and outer space cities, we found a mix of reproductions and original art that are sure to take your walls to another dimension.

Geek gear

Cases Fit For the Kindle Paperwhite

Cozying up to your Kindle Paperwhite for some Summer reading anytime soon?

Cozying up to your Kindle Paperwhite for some Summer reading anytime soon? Make sure your ereader is protected with a sweet case.

The latest Amazon ereader blends adjustable front-lit technology and traditional e-ink with a touchscreen display, offering bookworms an even better reading experience. We found nine cases, from the simple to the bright, that make it OK to judge a book by its cover.

Geek gear

Gadgets and Gear For the Perfect Summer Party

Any techie knows that more goes into your Summer gathering than firing up the grill.

Any techie knows that more goes into your Summer gathering than firing up the grill. It's all about the small details like the perfect sound system and wireless streaming. As Summer draws to a close, make sure nothing misses a beat at your party with the latest gear and gadgets that will make hosting your guests hassle-free.

Source: Flickr User SanFranAnnie

digital culture

Tips and Tricks Every Pinterest Addict Needs to Know

Aside from discovering delicious recipes and inspiring quotes, there are several ways your can maximize your Pinterest account both professionally and socially.

Aside from discovering delicious recipes and inspiring quotes, there are several ways your can maximize your Pinterest account both professionally and socially. Here's what you need to know to take your Pinterest addiction to the next level, whether you're looking to start a group board, email pins to friends, or upload photos from Instagram.

Tip Number One: Get Social

Pinterest is a form of social media, meaning the more you give, the more you get. Just like Twitter and Facebook, Pinterest is a great way to communicate and share content friends. Besides pinning photos for your followers (you know, the basic concept behind Pinterest), you can tag friends and followers in pins — using @ in the comment section — to get a conversation going (for example, @popsugarfashion, do you like these shoes?). You can also share pins with friends over email, Facebook, and Twitter.

For those who like to collaborate, start a group board that allows multiple pinners to contribute. Don't forget about hashtags either. This symbol (#) easily allows your content to trend and filter into common categories that fellow pinners might be searching.

Tip Number Two: Get Searching

There's more to Pinterest than what appears in your home feed, with various ways to find content. Use the search bar to explore what's trending and possible gift ideas and to find new pinners to follow. Remember that you had once glimpsed a perfect-with-the-living-room item on Pinterest that was from the Pottery Barn website? Enter into your browser's URL field: http://pinterest.com/source/potterybarn.com. Use the pinterest.com/source/website rubric to find what pinners have been adding from your favorite sites.

Pinterest also affects search engines: if you're trying to track down a specific pin or something more general like a recipe, it can often be found through a search engine — this makes captioning your pins key if you want them to be discovered.

How to find specific uploads from within your thousands of pins, after the break.

digital culture

Post Master: The Best Apps For Bloggers

Bloggers, listen up — we have everything you need to elevate your blog on the go.

Bloggers, listen up — we have everything you need to elevate your blog on the go. Between keeping a close watch on your analytics to posting breaking news, blogging is 24/7, making access to your favorite programs and applications key no matter where you are. Knowing you already have the basics like Twitter and Instagram, we found seven additional apps that do everything from edit photos to curate posts. Available for both tablets and smartphones, these downloads are what every blogger needs for those few moments away from the computer.

digital life

5 Registry Sites Every Techie Couple Should Consider

Put down the scan gun and head online for everything you've ever wanted in a wedding registry.
5 Registry Sites Every Techie Couple Should Consider

Put down the scan gun and head online for everything you've ever wanted in a wedding registry. Perfect for the unconventional couple, we found five wedding registries that extend beyond national retailers and allow for a more unique experience. From crowd-funding your honeymoon to getting the gadget of your dreams, these sites help to curate a wish list that is truly you. Chances are, you aren't an ordinary couple — that Star Wars cake is proof — so why have an ordinary registry?

Geek tips

The Lowdown on Downloading Podcasts

The next time you put on your headphones, take a break from the Billboard Top 100 and turn the dial to podcasts.

The next time you put on your headphones, take a break from the Billboard Top 100 and turn the dial to podcasts. Beyond a passing fad, this form of digital media offers audio and video episodes delivered to your device, often free of charge.

Whether you are new to the world of podcasts or an old pro, it can be both overwhelming and exciting to find a consistent favorite. Some podcasts are simply electronic companions to popular shows (NPR favorites, The Soup, etc.) while others exist only in the podcast medium, with cult-like followings. Follow these tips and tricks to navigate the sea of podcasts and uncover a treasure.

Your guide to podcasts after the break!

digital culture

Cool Capture: Flower Power

Nothing says Spring like the sight of cherry blossoms captured by Instagram user dadouchic and submitted using the #CoolCapture hashtag.

Nothing says Spring like the sight of cherry blossoms captured by Instagram user dadouchic and submitted using the #CoolCapture hashtag.

Have you been testing out your photography skills and snapped a shot you want to share? Submit your pics to our Cool Capture group or to Instagram with the #coolcapture hashtag, and your pic might be featured on the POPSUGAR Tech homepage. And don't forget to follow @popsugartech on Instagram!

digital culture

Cool Capture: Pretty in Pink

Although it's only Spring, a photo like this has us craving an Endless Summer!

Although it's only Spring, a photo like this has us craving an Endless Summer! These stunning pink skies were captured by Instagram user isaaso and submitted using the #CoolCapture hashtag.

Have you been testing out your photography skills and snapped a shot you want to share? Submit your pics to our Cool Capture group or to Instagram with the #coolcapture hashtag, and your pic might be featured on the POPSUGAR Tech homepage. And don't forget to follow @popsugartech on Instagram!

Editor's Pick

4 Apps You Must Download on Your Drive to Coachella

For all you music techies heading to Coachella this April, start downloading!

For all you music techies heading to Coachella this April, start downloading! Although Coachella hasn't released its official 2013 app (yet), we found four others to consider that'll have you dancing well into the desert night. Including everything from lineups to live updates, there's nothing you won't miss. Check out which app is right for you — just don't forget your charger!

  • Stagecraft: 2013 — Stagecraft's goal is to help you make the most of your music-festival experience. First, start by customizing your schedule so you can hop stages like a pro, then set alarms so you don't forget which band's up next. Live updates will let you know about any important changes, while artist biographies and genres will help you make informed decisions without requiring a cellular or WiFi connection.
  • ShowScoop — This app brings social media specifically to the concert scene. Download it to rate concerts, share photos, and read reviews so you never waste your money or risk a Coachella mishap.
  • MyCoachella.com — MyCoachella.com is dedicated to covering the desert music scene; Coachella and the Stagecoach country music festival included. Get live blog updates, photos, video, and lineups.
  • Coachella 2013 Insider — First, search the lineup. Then set up your schedule. When that's all squared away, check out the site map, Craigslist updates, and the forum. Don't worry about getting lost on the scene; the maps and your favorites are all accessible without an Internet connection.