August 24, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Sonos App Update 2024: What’s New and What’s Missing

Hey, music lovers! At coolcuration.com, we're all about those epic sound experiences. If you're like us, you've probably got your home decked out with some awesome Sonos gear. We’re big fans of the Sonos Ace headphones and the Sonos Era speaker—they’re practically a part of the family around here.

But let’s talk about the latest buzz: the brand-new Sonos app update. Whether you’re hyped about fresh features or nervous about what’s changed, we’ve got the lowdown on what’s awesome, what’s missing, and everything in between.

What’s New in the Sonos App?

  1. Slick New Look and Feel:
    First things first, the new Sonos app is looking good! The design got a major glow-up with a cleaner, more modern vibe. It’s easier to navigate, too—everything feels like it’s just a tap away. The updated look also makes it simpler to find your favorite music services and settings, which is a win in our book. The whole experience just feels more refined, almost like Sonos gave the app a nice polish.
  2. Faster and Smoother Performance:
    Remember those times when the old app would lag or take forever to load? Yeah, not anymore. This new version is way faster and feels super smooth, especially when you’re flipping through different rooms or managing multiple speakers. The app has clearly been optimized to handle bigger setups, so if you’re like us and have speakers all over the house, you’re in for a treat.
  3. More Personalization Options:
    Sonos really leaned into personalization with this update. Now you can tweak the home screen to spotlight your go-to playlists and music services. So, if you’re like us and have that one playlist you just can’t live without, it’s now front and center. This is great for those of us who want quick access to our jams without diving through tons of menus.
  4. Better Voice Assistant Integration:
    Voice control fans, rejoice! The new app plays nice with Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a lot easier to set up and use voice commands to control your music and smart home devices. We’re loving how smooth it is to ask Alexa to play something on the Sonos Era speaker and have it just work—no fuss, no hassle.
  5. Smarter Room Grouping:
    Got a big party and want the same tunes bumping throughout the whole house? The updated app makes it super easy to group rooms together with just a tap. Plus, it remembers your favorite groupings, so if you’re always linking up the kitchen and living room, it’ll be even quicker next time. It’s like the app’s starting to read our minds or something.

What’s Missing in the New Sonos App?

  1. Bye-Bye, Old Devices:
    Okay, here’s the bummer: some of the older Sonos products aren’t compatible with this new app. If you’ve got a mix of old and new speakers, you might have to keep the old app around for the legacy gear. We get that tech moves forward, but it’s a bit of a letdown for those who’ve been loyal to Sonos for years.
  2. Fewer Audio Customization Options:
    If you’re someone who likes to tinker with audio settings, you might find the new app a bit lacking. They’ve stripped out some of the advanced audio controls, which is a drag if you’re the type who loves to tweak EQ settings to get the perfect sound. It seems like Sonos is aiming for simplicity, but it feels like a step back for those of us who like more control.
  3. Limited Direct Play from Streaming Services:
    One thing that used to be super convenient was browsing and playing music directly from services like Spotify or Apple Music within the Sonos app. The new version still works with these services, but the experience isn’t as seamless as it was before. It’s a bit more of a back-and-forth dance now, which might frustrate users who got used to the old way.
  4. Reduced Notification Customization:
    If you liked customizing alerts for different events (like when there’s an update or a speaker disconnects), you might be in for a surprise. The new app has cut down on the customization options for notifications. For some, this streamlining is great, but for others, it means losing a bit of the control we used to have.

What’s the Deal with Bringing Back the Old App?

And now for some recent news that might sting a bit: Sonos’ CEO has announced that they won’t be bringing back the old app. Yep, you heard that right. For all of us who were hoping they’d reconsider and let us roll back to the familiar, feature-packed version we loved, it’s not going to happen. Instead, we’ll have to sit tight and hope that Sonos gradually reintroduces some of those beloved features into the new app.

So, while there’s a lot to love about the new Sonos app, there are definitely some trade-offs. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that Sonos listens to user feedback and continues to improve the app, bringing back some of those missing features. Until then, we’ll just have to make the best of what’s here—and enjoy the new stuff that’s come our way. Stay tuned to coolcuration.com for the latest updates, and let’s keep the music flowing!

August 18, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Why You Should Donate to Save The Common Press: A Queer LGBTQ+ Bookshop and Event Space in East London

In the heart of East London lies The Common Press, a beacon for the queer LGBTQ+ community, offering a sanctuary where diversity and inclusivity thrive. As the world becomes increasingly digital, spaces like The Common Press play a crucial role in maintaining physical, safe havens for marginalised communities.

We also featured their bookclub membership book club membership as a great service and great gift. This membership not only provides access to an array of wonderful books but also supports the ongoing efforts to keep The Common Press thriving. It would be sad to see that end!

Today, this beloved bookshop and event space faces financial challenges, and they need our help to ensure its survival. Here's why your donation is vital and how you can contribute to preserving this essential community hub.

A Unique Cultural and Community Space

Celebrating Queer Literature and Art

The Common Press is more than just a bookshop; it is a cultural institution dedicated to showcasing queer literature and art. By curating a diverse selection of books, from contemporary fiction to historical accounts, this space celebrates the richness of queer experiences. Donating to The Common Press means supporting authors, artists, and creators who may otherwise remain unheard.

Hosting Inclusive Events

From author readings and book signings to art exhibitions and workshops, The Common Press is a vibrant event space that fosters community engagement and learning. These events offer opportunities for personal growth, networking, and solidarity, strengthening the bonds within the LGBTQ+ community.

Why Your Donation Matters

Supporting Marginalized Voices

Spaces like The Common Press are vital for amplifying marginalized voices. By donating, you are directly contributing to a platform that elevates the stories and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. This support is crucial in a world where queer voices are often sidelined.

Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing

The importance of safe, inclusive spaces for mental health and wellbeing cannot be overstated. The Common Press provides a welcoming environment where individuals can express themselves freely, find support, and connect with others who share similar experiences. Your donation helps maintain this sanctuary, offering solace and community for many.

Preserving Local Heritage

East London has a rich history of diversity and activism. The Common Press is a continuation of this legacy, embodying the spirit of resistance and resilience. By supporting this space, you are helping to preserve an important part of local heritage that honors and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

How You Can Help

The Common Press has launched a fundraiser to secure the funds needed to keep its doors open. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant impact. Here’s how you can help:

  1. Donate: Visit the fundraiser page and make a donation. Your financial support is crucial to the survival of this essential community space.
  2. Share: Spread the word about the fundraiser on social media, email, or by word of mouth. The more people know about the campaign, the more likely it is to succeed.
  3. Engage: Attend events, purchase books, and participate in the community. Your engagement helps sustain the vibrancy of The Common Press.

Conclusion

The Common Press is more than just a bookshop; it is a cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ community in East London. By donating to their fundraiser, you are helping to ensure that this invaluable space continues to thrive. Your support means preserving a sanctuary for queer literature, art, and community events, making a lasting impact on countless lives. Together, we can save The Common Press and continue to celebrate and uplift the voices that matter.

Consider giving the gift of a Common Press book club membership, a thoughtful gesture that supports the ongoing mission of this vital community space.

Donate Now and be a part of this important movement to preserve an essential community space.

August 4, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Must-See Art Exhibitions in London This August 2024

Must-See Art Exhibitions in London This August 2024

London's art scene is buzzing with vibrant and thought-provoking exhibitions this August. Whether you're an avid art enthusiast or simply looking to explore something new, the city's galleries and museums have something for everyone. Here are the top exhibitions you shouldn't miss this month:

1. "Masters of the Renaissance" at The National Gallery - https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Dates: August 1 - September 30, 2024

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the brilliance of the Renaissance era. The National Gallery brings together an extraordinary collection of masterpieces from artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to witness the genius of these legendary figures up close.

2. "Digital Realities: The Future of Art" at Tate Modern - https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern

Dates: August 5 - November 10, 2024

Explore the intersection of art and technology at Tate Modern’s groundbreaking exhibition. "Digital Realities" showcases cutting-edge digital art, virtual reality installations, and interactive experiences from artists who are redefining the boundaries of creativity. This is a must-see for anyone fascinated by the future of art and innovation.

3. "Echoes of the Past: Ancestral Art from Africa" at The British Museum - https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions

Dates: August 10, 2024 - January 5, 2025

Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Africa with this stunning exhibition at The British Museum. Featuring over 200 artifacts, "Echoes of the Past" highlights the intricate artistry and profound history of various African civilizations. From ancient sculptures to contemporary pieces, this exhibition celebrates the diversity and depth of African art.

4. "Impressionist Gardens" at The Royal Academy of Arts - https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibitions

Dates: August 15 - December 31, 2024

Lose yourself in the serene and beautiful world of Impressionist gardens. The Royal Academy of Arts presents an exquisite collection of paintings from artists like Monet, Renoir, and Pissarro, who captured the beauty of nature in their unique styles. This exhibition is a visual feast for anyone who loves the tranquility and vibrancy of garden landscapes.

5. "Contemporary Japanese Art: Tradition Meets Innovation" at The Victoria and Albert Museum - https://www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions

Dates: August 20, 2024 - February 20, 2025

Discover the dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity in Japanese art at the V&A. This exhibition features works from contemporary Japanese artists who blend traditional techniques with innovative approaches. From intricate textiles to avant-garde installations, this showcase offers a captivating glimpse into the evolving world of Japanese art.

6. "Surreal Visions: The World of Salvador Dalí" at Saatchi Gallery - https://www.saatchigallery.com/exhibition

Dates: August 25, 2024 - January 25, 2025

Step into the bizarre and fantastical universe of Salvador Dalí at Saatchi Gallery. "Surreal Visions" brings together a mesmerizing collection of Dalí's paintings, sculptures, and drawings, highlighting his unparalleled creativity and eccentricity. This exhibition is a journey through the mind of one of the most imaginative artists of the 20th century.


August is a fantastic month for art lovers in London. With such a diverse range of exhibitions on offer, there's no better time to explore the city's rich artistic landscape. Make sure to mark your calendars and immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and innovation that these exhibitions bring to life. Enjoy your artistic adventures!

July 3, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Emma App Review: Simplifying Your Financial Life with an Exclusive 30-Day Free Trial

Emma finance app

Managing personal finances can often feel overwhelming, but the Emma app is here to change that. In this Emma app review, we'll explore how this innovative tool can streamline your financial life, making budgeting, tracking expenses, and saving money easier than ever. Plus, we have an exclusive offer for you: using our Emma referral code, you can enjoy a 30-day free trial of any plan—much longer than the usual 7-day trial!

What is Emma?

Emma is a comprehensive finance management app designed to help you take control of your money. By linking all your bank accounts, credit cards, and financial products in one place, Emma provides a clear and detailed overview of your financial health. The app offers various features aimed at simplifying money management, such as budgeting tools, expense tracking, and insights into your spending habits.

Key Features of the Emma App

  1. Budgeting Made Easy: Emma allows you to set budgets for different categories, ensuring you never overspend. It provides real-time updates on your spending, so you always know where your money is going.
  2. Expense Tracking: With Emma, tracking expenses is straightforward. The app categorizes your transactions automatically, making it easier to see how much you're spending on groceries, entertainment, bills, and more.
  3. Subscription Management: Emma helps you keep track of all your subscriptions. It alerts you to any upcoming payments and even suggests potential savings by identifying subscriptions you may no longer need.
  4. Bank Account Integration: Link all your financial accounts, including bank accounts, credit cards, and investments, to get a complete picture of your financial status.
  5. Advanced Analytics: Emma provides detailed insights into your spending patterns, helping you make informed financial decisions. It highlights areas where you can cut back and shows you the impact of your spending habits.
  6. Debt Tracking: If you're working on paying off debt, Emma can help you track your progress. It gives you a clear view of your outstanding balances and helps you develop a repayment plan.

Exclusive 30-Day Free Trial with Our Emma Referral Code

While Emma typically offers a 7-day free trial for new users, we have an exclusive deal for you. By using our Emma referral code, you can extend your free trial to 30 days. This gives you ample time to explore all the features and see how Emma can transform your financial management.

How to Get Started

  1. Download the App: Emma is available on both iOS and Android platforms. Visit our link to download the app.
  2. Sign Up: Create an account by providing some basic information. Make sure to enter our Emma referral code during the sign-up process to activate your 30-day free trial.
  3. Link Your Accounts: Connect your bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial products to Emma. The app uses bank-level security to protect your data, so you can rest assured that your information is safe.
  4. Explore the Features: Take advantage of the extended trial period to explore all the features Emma has to offer. Set up your budgets, track your expenses, and gain insights into your financial habits.

Why Choose Emma?

Emma stands out among financial management apps due to its user-friendly interface, comprehensive features, and insightful analytics. It simplifies the complex task of managing your finances, helping you save time and money. Whether you're looking to stick to a budget, manage your subscriptions, or pay off debt, Emma provides the tools you need to succeed.

Final Thoughts

In this Emma app review, we've highlighted how Emma can simplify your financial life. With its robust set of features, intuitive design, and powerful analytics, Emma is a must-have tool for anyone looking to take control of their finances. Don't miss out on our exclusive offer—use our Emma referral code to enjoy a 30-day free trial of any plan and start your journey towards better financial health today.

Ready to simplify your finances? Download Emma now and use our referral code for an extended free trial. Experience the difference Emma can make in managing your money effortlessly.

June 30, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Sonos Ace Headphones Review: Premium Sound and Comfort

When it comes to premium audio experiences, Sonos is a name that often stands out. Known for their exceptional sound systems, Sonos has now ventured into the world of personal audio with their Ace Headphones. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Sonos Ace Headphones a must-have for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Sonos Ace Headphones come in sleek, minimalist packaging that exudes sophistication. Upon opening the box, you’re greeted with the headphones neatly nestled in a protective case. The package also includes a USB-C charging cable, an audio cable for wired listening, and a quick start guide.

From the first glance, the Ace Headphones impress with their premium build quality. The combination of matte and glossy finishes, along with the subtle Sonos branding, gives these headphones a modern and stylish look.

Design and Comfort

One of the standout features of the Sonos Ace Headphones is their ergonomic design. The headphones are lightweight, and the adjustable headband ensures a snug fit for all head sizes. The ear cups are generously padded with memory foam, providing excellent comfort even during extended listening sessions.

The controls are intuitively placed on the ear cups, allowing for easy adjustment of volume, playback, and noise cancellation settings. The inclusion of touch-sensitive panels adds a futuristic touch, making these headphones as functional as they are stylish.

Audio Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the Sonos Ace Headphones truly shine. These headphones deliver a balanced and dynamic sound profile, making them suitable for all genres of music. The bass is deep and punchy without being overwhelming, the mids are clear and detailed, and the highs are crisp and precise.

One of the most impressive features is the active noise cancellation (ANC). The Sonos Ace Headphones use advanced ANC technology to effectively block out ambient noise, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your music. Whether you’re in a noisy office or a bustling café, these headphones create a serene listening environment.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The Sonos Ace Headphones are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and seamless connection with your devices. Pairing is quick and hassle-free, and the headphones support multi-device connectivity, allowing you to switch effortlessly between your phone, tablet, and laptop.

Battery life is another area where these headphones excel. With up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, the Sonos Ace Headphones can easily last through a long day of use. Additionally, the fast-charging feature provides several hours of playback with just a quick 15-minute charge.

Additional Features

The Sonos Ace Headphones come with a built-in microphone that delivers crystal-clear call quality. The microphone also supports voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, making it easy to control your music, check the weather, or send a text with simple voice commands.

Another noteworthy feature is the customizable sound settings available through the Sonos app. The app allows you to fine-tune the sound profile to your liking, ensuring a personalized listening experience.

Final Verdict

In summary, the Sonos Ace Headphones are a fantastic addition to the Sonos lineup and a strong contender in the premium headphone market. With their exceptional sound quality, effective noise cancellation, comfortable design, and impressive battery life, these headphones offer excellent value for money.

Whether you’re a dedicated audiophile or someone looking for a high-quality pair of headphones for everyday use, the Sonos Ace Headphones are sure to exceed your expectations. Experience the pinnacle of personal audio with the Sonos Ace Headphones, click here to see them in our gift guide.

June 15, 2024Comments are off for this post.

Freetrade Review 2024: The Best Investment App?

Freetrade Review 2024 image of the freetrade app

In the ever-evolving world of investment, finding a platform that suits your needs can be challenging. Enter Freetrade, an app that has gained significant traction over the past few years. In this "Freetrade Review 2024," we'll delve into the app's features, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you decide if it's the right choice for your investment journey.


What is Freetrade?

Freetrade is a commission-free investment app designed to make investing accessible to everyone. Launched in 2016, it has grown rapidly, appealing to both novice investors and seasoned traders. The app is available on iOS and Android, offering a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of buying and selling stocks.


Key Features of Freetrade

Commission-Free Trading

One of Freetrade's standout features is its commission-free trading. Unlike traditional brokers that charge per trade, Freetrade allows users to buy and sell stocks without incurring transaction fees. This can result in significant savings, particularly for frequent traders.

Fractional Shares

Freetrade offers the ability to purchase fractional shares, allowing investors to buy a portion of a stock rather than a whole share. This feature is particularly beneficial for those looking to invest in high-priced stocks without needing a large amount of capital upfront.

Wide Range of Investments

The app provides access to a broad selection of stocks, ETFs, and investment trusts from major markets, including the US and the UK. This variety enables users to diversify their portfolios easily.

User-Friendly Interface

Freetrade's interface is designed with simplicity in mind. The intuitive layout ensures that even those new to investing can navigate the app with ease. Features like stock search, portfolio tracking, and detailed stock information are all easily accessible.

Educational Resources

For those looking to learn more about investing, Freetrade offers a range of educational resources. From blog posts and newsletters to community forums, users can find valuable information to help them make informed investment decisions.


Freetrade Review 2024: Benefits of Using Freetrade

Accessibility

Freetrade’s low-cost model and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginner investors. There’s no minimum investment required, allowing anyone to start their investment journey with any amount they’re comfortable with.

Transparency

Freetrade is known for its transparency. There are no hidden fees, and the app clearly outlines any costs associated with premium features or foreign exchange transactions.

ISA and SIPP Options

For those interested in tax-efficient investing, Freetrade offers Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs). These options can help investors save on taxes and plan for the future.


Freetrade Review 2024: Potential Drawbacks

Limited Advanced Trading Features

While Freetrade is excellent for beginners and casual investors, it may lack some of the advanced trading features that experienced traders seek. For example, there are no options for margin trading or short selling.

No Cryptocurrency Trading

As of 2024, Freetrade does not support cryptocurrency trading. Investors interested in digital assets will need to look elsewhere.

Customer Support

Some users have reported that Freetrade's customer support can be slow to respond. While the app's community forum can be helpful, direct support may not always be prompt.


Freetrade Plus

For users seeking more features, Freetrade offers a premium service called Freetrade Plus. For a monthly fee, Freetrade Plus members gain access to additional stocks, priority customer support, and other advanced features like limit orders and stop losses.


Conclusion: Is Freetrade Right for You?

In summary, Freetrade is an excellent app for those looking to dip their toes into the world of investing without incurring high fees. Its user-friendly interface, commission-free trading, and educational resources make it particularly appealing to beginners. However, advanced traders may find the app lacking in certain areas.

If you're looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to start investing, Freetrade is certainly worth considering. We hope this "Freetrade Review 2024" has provided you with the insights needed to make an informed decision about whether Freetrade aligns with your investment goals.


Get a Free Share with Our Referral Link

As a special bonus, when you sign up for Freetrade using our unique referral link, you'll receive a free share! This is a fantastic way to kickstart your investment journey with a little extra boost. Simply go to our feature page here, click on the link, complete the sign-up process using the code provided and top up the minimum amount, the free share will be credited to your account by Freetrade.

December 30, 2020Comments are off for this post.

Air fryer deep dive

Air fryers have become a big thing lately with lots of buzz (or maybe healthy heat) around them. In this post, we're going to take a good look at what an air fryer is, the best air fryer we've come across and what makes it stand out from the pack.

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December 23, 2020Comments are off for this post.

ESG Investing – Nutmeg – App of the week (mini spotlight)

This week's app of the week is the ESG investing provider Nutmeg. Learn about their app and investment options and get 6 months fee-free.

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December 15, 2020Comments are off for this post.

Airtime rewards – App of the week (mini spotlight)

This week's app of the week is Airtime rewards. Get airtime credit towards your contract or PAYG by using your card as normal and up to a £1 bonus.

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December 13, 2020Comments are off for this post.

Reusable Qtip review – LastSwab, World’s First Reusable Cotton Swab

A deep dive of the reusable Qtip made by LastSwab. How it compares, why we think it's great, and what impact it could have on your life.

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