Technology
Top 10 Remote Working Tools for Businesses
Many businesses have adopted a remote working arrangement at the start of the pandemic. And many have shifted towards a hybrid working arrangement because of vaccines and the reduced number of cases. This working arrangement isn’t going anytime soon because of the flexibility offered, and businesses should continue equipping themselves with remote working tools. After all, many employees want to work from home or anywhere other than the office.
And if you need the best remote working tools for your business, we listed the top 10 best ones!
1. Slack
One remote working tool that gained popularity during the pandemic was Slack. Many businesses that have shifted to remote work have used Slack to communicate with fellow employees. But Slack has also branched out to bring in business clients or customers for seamless communications, eliminating the need for email threads. And one perk of using Slack is you can use it for free!
Pricing:
- Free
- Pro – $7.25/mo
- Business+ – $12.50/mo
- Enterprise Grid – Contact sales
2. Basecamp
Basecamp is one of many project management tools that remote businesses can use. With Basecamp, you can view ALL of your active projects in one dashboard. From there, you can keep the conversation flowing with their Messages feature. You can also break down tasks with their To-Dos and share all the files you need to complete a project with their file-sharing feature.
Plus, you can chat with others and check in with your team without leaving the app. And for data nerds, you’ll have insight into project progress with their Reports.
Pricing:
- Free
- Basecamp Pricing – $11/user/mo
3. Zoom
Here’s another must-have remote working tool for remote teams. Zoom has become one of the most used communication tools.
For one, you can chat with your team via video, whether it’s for meetings or check-ins. You can share your screen to show teams about new tasks or presentations. But Zoom is more than just a video communication tool. You can also share files here via chats. Plus, they have a whiteboard feature where you can collaborate with others and brainstorm ideas through drawing tools, connectors, and sticky notes. And you can group teams via Rooms too.
Pricing:
- Basic – Free
- Pro – $14.99/mo/user
- Business – $19.99/mo/user
- Enterprise – Contact sales
4. Google Drive
File sharing is necessary for remote teams. And if you want a file-sharing tool for your remote business, Google Drive is your best option. With Google Drive, users get 15GB once they sign up for Gmail. And it’s all for free! Plus, all your files are secure with the file-sharing tool. But if your business has tons of files to share and needs more than 15GB, they have a Business Standard account plan.
Plus, employees can add more to their personal Google Drive if they need more files to share with fellow employees with a Google One subscription.
Pricing:
Business Standard – $12/mo
Personal (Google One Subscription)
- Free
- Basic (100GB) – $1.99/mo
- Standard (200GB) – $2.99/mo
- Premium (2TB) – $9.99/mo
5. TeamViewer
Collaborating with your team members remotely can be challenging. And if you want to take control of your team’s computer to show them how things get done for a couple of minutes, TeamViewer is the best tool for this purpose.
Using this tool could seem creepy at first, but TeamViewer is ideal for tech support-related issues, file sharing, and collaboration. Plus, TeamViewer assures users that despite remote access, it has end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication, ensuring that your team will be safe with this tool.
Pricing:
- Free
- Remote Access – $6.95/mo
- Business – $34.90/mo
- Premium – $102.90/mo
- Corporate – $206.90/mo
6. 10to8
Do you need to stay on top of all your meetings with your team? 10to8 is one of the best remote working tools for scheduling and holding meetings on time. You can set appointments in a few clicks and even classify them as recurring if you repeatedly have meetings about this task or project. Once you have appointments with the team, they’ll be notified via email, or it will be synced to Google, 365, or iCal calendars.
Pricing:
- Free
- Basic – $12/mo
- Grow – $25/mo
- Bigger Business – $50/mo
7. Loom
If you don’t have time to hold a meeting but want to show your team members that they should be working on a new task, Loom is the best remote working tool for your team. You can share your screen and demonstrate how the new task should be done. With Loom, you can download their software to your computer or add it as an extension on Google Chrome.
You can record your screen and camera or either one. Plus, you can edit your video before sending it to your team.
Pricing:
- Free
- Business – $8/mo
- Enterprise – Contact sales
8. Unito
Do you spend way more time moving things around when you can focus on other tasks? You can automate these tasks thanks to Unito! Unito is like IFTTT, where you can automate certain tasks when you start or finish one. It’s an underrated integration tool that you can use on the following apps:
- Trello
- Google Drive
- Asana
- Basecamp
- Hubspot
Pricing:
- Personal – $19/mo
- Team – $30/mo
- Company – $247/mo
- Enterprise – Custom
9. Notion
If your business is heavy on note-taking, Notion is a remote working tool you should use. With Notion, you can put all your processes and tasks in one place. Plus, you can add all of your meeting notes in there too. In addition, you can also create workflows for seamless work.
Pricing:
- Free
- Personal – $5/mo
- Team – $10/mo
- Enterprise – Contact sales
10. Officevibe
When you’re working remotely, you also want to ensure your employees are heard. After all, there is no face-to-face interaction since team members work from home. It sometimes hinders communication, which prevents members to voice out their feedback. With Officevibe, you’ll know what employees are thinking by allowing them to give you feedback through surveys and anonymous messaging.
Aside from feedback, recognize what employees do for you with their Recognition feature. Plus, you can align with your employees through 1-on-1 meetings and progress tracking.
Pricing:
- Free
- Essential – $8/mo
- Pro – $12/mo
Final Thoughts
Remote working tools can definitely make your workplace efficient outside the office. You don’t need to use fancy software applications to keep your business running. With project management and employee communication tools, you will have a productive remote workplace.
If you haven’t found the right gaming headphones, you’re probably not searching in the right places. Better yet, you probably don’t know how to choose one. Your gaming headphones must have excellent quality, comfortable, reliable connectivity, and multiple features. Here are the 10 best gaming headphones of 2024.
1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless offers outstanding high-fidelity sound quality and a premium build. It provides the ability to connect to a console and mobile device simultaneously. The headset features an excellent microphone that filters noise and a comfortable design. Despite low wireless latency, it has limited noise isolation. The unique battery charging system enhances gaming sessions. Drawback: no dedicated microphone volume button.
2. HyperX Cloud II
This headset features low latency and balanced audio quality, including virtual surround sound. Its noise-filtering microphone is clear, and the comfortable ear cups allow for extended gaming sessions. However, the lack of software customization and breathability can lead to warm ears. Pros include good sound and comfort, but cons involve poor noise isolation and potential sound sharpness.
3. Razer BlackShark V2
Deemed as one of the top gaming headsets, the Razer BlackShark V2 provides excellent sound isolation, comfort, and high-quality sound. It delivers more accurate audio than most gaming headsets and can be worn for hours without overheating. Its downsides include an average microphone and cumbersome Synapse software.
4. Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE
Looking for a premium gaming headset? The Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE is a premium gaming headset offering excellent wireless connectivity, superb sound, and customizable RGB lighting. It features a high-quality microphone, long battery life, and a sturdy build. While it delivers a compelling package, its higher price, and potential heat build-up during long sessions may be drawbacks.
5. Logitech G Pro X
The Logitech G Pro X gaming headset offers professional-grade sound and Blue Voice microphone technology for clear communication. While it excels on PC with its comfortable design and extensive sound customization, its reliance on software hampers performance on consoles. The headset features multiple wired connectivity options, but the microphone may underemphasize bass.
6. Beyerdynamic MMX 150
Nothing beats this headset’s superior audio quality and comfortable design, making it an excellent choice for audiophile gamers. It features many replaceable parts and strong fundamentals, although it is best used with a wired USB connection. Despite its solid construction, the headset may be expensive, given its features and limited button functionality with a 3.5mm adapter.
7. EPOS H6PRO
The Epos H6Pro is a versatile mid-range gaming headset with exceptional audio quality and an ergonomic design. It offers a clear, punchy sound and a crystal-clear microphone. Compatibility with all systems makes it convenient, and users can choose between open or closed-back variants. The open version leaks audio, and the mic splitter can be inconvenient.
8. Astro A50
The fourth generation of the Astro A50 is a premium wireless gaming headset that offers an immersive experience with Dolby Audio. The headset features a low-latency wireless base station and a comfortable design for long gaming sessions. Its boom mic provides excellent recording quality and effective noise isolation. Onboard controls allow for volume adjustments and other settings, though occasional issues exist with the companion software. The headset’s open soundstage is a strength, but its noise isolation is lacking.
9. Audeze Mobius
The Audeze Mobius is known for its planar magnetic drivers and 3D audio technology, offering a distinctive listening experience. While it comes at a higher price, its exceptional audio quality and multiple connectivity options make it a top choice for gaming enthusiasts. The headset supports 7.1, stereo, and Bluetooth modes, and the 3D audio works well. However, the price may be a drawback, and the memory foam takes time to adapt for comfort.
10. Sennheiser GSP 670
Buying this headset offers superb sound quality, comfort, and a dependable wireless connection, all in one package. Despite its high price, it delivers top-notch audio and a good microphone. The headset is ideal for gamers seeking a premium wireless experience and remote workers needing an all-day option. However, the connection range can be inconsistent.
For more tech and gaming recs, check out more here at Owner’s Mag!
Getting a reliable robot vacuum means you can lay around on your couch while the cleaner does the heavy lifting! Our team searched high and low for the best robot vacuum, and we can say we enjoyed testing them! Here are our top 10 picks for the robot vacuums of 2024.
1. iRobot Roomba j7+
The Roomba j7+ is the best robot vacuum overall. It features self-emptying capabilities, intelligent navigation, and an easy-to-use app. Despite being loud and having average battery life, it recognizes up to 80 household objects, ensuring your home gets cleaned while avoiding cords and shoes. PrecisionVision Navigation and the P.O.O.P. guarantee add to its appeal.
Price:
- $642.80 on Amazon
2. iRobot Roomba s9+
We all agree that this is the best robot vacuum for pet hair. It features a D-shaped design for corner cleaning, exceptional suction power, and an auto-empty base. Though expensive and with average battery life, it offers 40 times power-lifting suction, 30% wider dual multi-surface rubber brushes, and Dirt Detect technology for tackling excessive pet hair and dirt.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
3. Eufy S1 Pro
If you’re looking for a robot vacuum with powerful suction, look no further. The Eufy S1 Pro boasts an 8,000PA suction and self-washing mop head for unparalleled cleaning efficiency. Intelligent mapping ensures precision, while speed and effectiveness set it apart. Despite being expensive and loud, its cutting-edge self-cleaning technology and power make it a top-tier choice.
Price:
- $999 on Kickstarter
4. Shark ION AV751
If you need a robot vacuum on a tight budget, the Shark ION AV751 is for you. This robot vacuum offers excellent suction power and a 120-minute run time. Its tri-brush system and stair/cliff edge detection make it efficient. Alexa and Google Assistant integration adds convenience, making it a manageable option for those seeking simplicity.
Price:
- $319.99 on Amazon
5. Neato Botvac D8
The Neato D8, known for its D-shaped design, excels in corner cleaning and advanced mapping. Ideal for smaller homes, it offers 100-minute battery life and a lidar for space mapping. The app supports no-go zones and scheduling, though it can’t map multiple floors and may climb low furniture and ledges.
Price:
- $699.99 on Amazon
6. Bobsweep PetHair Vision
Designed for pet owners, this vacuum excels at pet hair removal and offers smart navigation and mopping capabilities. Its quiet operation and three-inch height allow easy cleaning under furniture. With longer battery life, it efficiently covers large areas. The drawback? Its cleaning schedule may reset unexpectedly, and customer service follow-through can be slow.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
7. Dreame X30 Ultra
This best 2-in-1 vacuum and mop offers quiet, self-emptying, dual oscillating mop heads and MopExtend mop pads. Although it has an app that’s not very user-friendly and is expensive with recurring costs, it provides comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces. Its multi-functional base station and 8300PA suction power ensure efficient home maintenance.
Price:
- $1,399.99 on Amazon
8. Samsung Jet Bot AI+
If you don’t mind the bulky size, the Samsung Jet Bot AI+ is a good robot vacuum option. Its self-cleaning base adds convenience. This robot vacuum has an attractive design and advanced AI for obstacle avoidance.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
9. Dyson 360 Heurist
The Dyson 360 Heurist offers exceptional cleaning power with solid suction and intelligent mapping. This premium robot vacuum reaches edges effectively, thanks to its motorized brush. Though slow to set up, its precise map fine-tuning and methodical cleaning make it a top choice.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
10. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Nothing is more self-sufficient than this all-in-one robot vacuum. It’s self-cleaning, self-emptying, self-washing, self-drying, and self-refilling! Plus, it uses VibraRise mopping and customizable cleaning routines.
Price:
$949.99 on Amazon
Mental health chatbots have become reliable companions for those who can’t afford therapy. However, these chatbots aren’t a real replacement for actual therapists. They can provide temporary comfort and aid mental health professionals in tracking patients’ moods and other necessary information to provide quality care. But with AI being more accessible and free, especially to teens, will more people depend on AI chatbots in the future?
The Latest in AI Chatbot & Mental Health
Mental health chatbots are on the rise. Wysa and Woebot are two well-known examples. But, one AI chatbot is much more popular than the others: the Psychologist bot on Character.ai. According to the BBC, Character.ai helps millions of users talk to the bot and other mental health-related ones to address any concerns.
Character.ai allows users to create bots to help others talk to their favorite characters or “individuals.” So far, the Psychologist and other mental health-adjacent bots have received millions of messages from multiple users. Character.ai users have shared their reviews on the social media forum Reddit about their experiences with the bot. So far, the bot has received nothing but amazing reviews.
For instance, one user messaged Psychologist to help with relationship issues and to communicate with their partner.
There’s one person to thank for this: Blazeman98. He hoped to help others because he wanted someone to talk to when his friends weren’t available. But this isn’t the only AI chatbot internet users can approach for their mental health concerns.
Other Mental Health Chatbots
Woebot is one well-known mental health chatbot. The team behind the chatbot uses cognitive behavioral techniques to help users talk about their feelings, and the chatbot will respond with compassion. Plus, it can give simple solutions to get you through the moment. It covers multiple mental health issues like needs, feeling capable, relationships, coping, and more. The chatbot helps adults, adolescents, and mothers. You can download Woebot in the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorders, and other mental health concerns, you can download Youper. This chatbot helps you track your moods every day. Plus, you can chat with the bot anytime you need help.
Wysa is another option to consider if you want an alternative to Character.ai. However, Wysa is ideal for businesses prioritizing mental health in the workplace. The chatbot helps the patient talk about what’s worrying them. Plus, it checks in with the patient and suggests exercises to improve their well-being. However, Wysa can connect patients to professionals.
Addressing Loneliness
Since AI chatbots don’t have any certification or accreditation to give advice or provide counseling, AI chatbots are excellent companions for lonely people. Meta-Gallup reports that a quarter of the global population feels lonely. With the rise of AI, more people can rely on AI to talk to them and provide companionship that others can’t offer, whether in real life or on the internet.
However, Business Insider writer Daniel Cox believes that more people will be lonely as they talk to AI often. It’s all because of the lack of human connection. Gen Z, in particular, will feel this loneliness even more so. Since they grew up with technology, talking to chatbots is a pathway for them when they need someone to talk to when they don’t have anyone else or because of the potential harm social media brings to users.
How Safe is it to Use AI Chatbots?
Although you can talk to an AI chatbot with the touch of a button, it could be risky to depend on an AI chatbot for mental health-related issues or companionship.
One issue that arises when talking to AI chatbots is your privacy. One recent example of a data leak comes from Microsoft when an employee unknowingly leaked 38TB (that’s right, terabytes) of data. That’s a possibility, especially if data isn’t stored properly. Or, in the employee’s case, they posted the wrong URL.
Another issue that comes up is bias and discrimination. For instance, one chatbot was taken down for the language it used while conversing with users on Twitter. Due to the unfortunate incident, it was forced to shut down because of an uncoordinated attack.
The chatbots mentioned above ensure safety and security through data encryption. Plus, they use language that won’t trigger or encourage users to harm themselves or someone else. Additionally, chatbots avoid giving diagnoses and aren’t discriminatory or biased. Moreover, some AI chatbots are HIPAA-compliant, ensuring they follow regulatory health standards. Finally, the chatbots won’t sell your data to third-party or advertising companies.
Final Thoughts
AI chatbots can be a companion when you’re lonely or need to discuss mental health conditions or symptoms. However, they are not a full replacement for a human therapist as they can only provide solutions to help you get through the moment, track your moods, and give you insights.
Character.ai provides a free solution to talk to a “Psychologist” bot anytime, but note that you’re not talking to a professional. If that’s bothersome for you, you can use other mental health chatbots to direct you to the help you need. This way, you’ll also have a safe and secure experience while conversing with chatbots built by professionals.
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