9 Last-Minute Kickstarters to Put on Your Christmas Wish List

While most of our grown-up Christmas list is already set (including Bachelor-themed and Hello Kitty wine, because #adulting), we’re always on the hunt for cool new things to add — even if that means waiting until after the holidays buy them with our Christmas loot. So whether you’re a holiday procrastinator or New Years pre-planner, here are nine new Kickstarter and Indiegogo crowdfunds that we’re keeping our eyes on this week.

1. Sharingland: As one of the first Mexican creators to launch a campaign on Kickstarter, the dynamic entrepreneurs behind Sharingland are trying to rediscover the magic of a cardboard box. From a space capsule to a castle, these creative cardboard playhouses will surely bring out your inner kiddo.

2. Bobby Compact: Combining innovative anti-theft technology with cute candy colors, this cool new backpack is perfect for the bright traveler.

3. Actofit: While we’ll be the first ones to say we love tracking our steps on our Fitbit, this cool new wearable is taking gym tracking to a whole new level. Using algorithms that track more than 75 exercises and count reps, it’s the perfect gift for the techy gym rat in your life.

4. Everlast: Nothing quite beats writing down a to-do list in a cute notebook… but the environmentalist in us isn’t too keen about wasting paper. The Everlast feels just like writing in a regular notebook, but the ink erases with just a drop of water. Plus, it’s compatible with the Rocketbook app, so you can easily save your notes to Google Drive and Dropbox before erasing them IRL.

5. Venturi: Let’s be honest, the belt hasn’t really changed… ever. This cool new innovation ditches the stone-age prong system for a sleeker design that doesn’t have to be adjusted every single time you put on your pants. Trust us, the two seconds you’ll save every morning will really add up.

6. Lief: Having a stressful period of life can wreak havoc on your physical, emotional and mental health. Luckily, this cool new gadget is here to help us find our inner zen. Lief tracks your natural heart rate variability (HRV) which is a marker of your physical and psychological health. Not only does it track this key stress indicator, but it also utilizes HRV biofeedback exercises to help you train yourself to stay less stressed throughout your day.

7. Eyeque: If you’re the type of person who dreads going to the optometrist, this cool new gadget just might be for you. Eyeque is a smartphone-powered vision tracker that allows you to take vision tests and track your eyesight all through the device and free myEyeQue app.

8. iKeybo: Whether you’re writing emails at a cafe or proofing a proposal on an airplane, lugging around a full-size computer for a few minutes of work is hella annoying. That’s what makes this product so genius: The iKeybo instantly transforms your smartphone into a full-sized virtual keyboard. Simply put your phone on the built-in stand and it automatically projects a keyboard in four languages… heck, it can even be used to play piano, guitar, bass or drums too.

9. SELFFEE: For the gal who has one too many selfies on her phone, this cool new foodie company is definitely a must-fund. Printing your real selfies on cookies and beverages, this edible photo both is perfect for special events (plus, they’re opening up a storefront in NYC next year).

Are you currently backing any cool Kickstarters? Tweet us by mentioning @BritandCo.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

(Featured Photo via Sharingland)

Apple unveiled their latest and greatest today, most notably introducing the iPhone 15 suite, improved iCloud storage plan options, and the Apple Watch Series 9. The new products bring forth some reasonably big changes to Apple’s existing technology – the company saying ‘goodbye’ to the Lightning port is just one example. Read on for everything, new and improved, that was just announced at the Apple Event.

The iPhone 15

New iPhone

The latest iteration of iPhone is the iPhone 15, and it will also be available as the iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. They’ll come in 5 colors: white, black, pink (rejoice!), green, and yellow. The Pro models are fitted with a strong, lightweight titanium casing, and have a 6.1-inch screen, while the Plus models boast a 6.7-inch screen.

No More Lightning Cables

And yes, you read it right – the Lighting charging ports are no more for new Apple products, including the iPhone 15. From now on, users will only be able to use a USB-C cord (that, according to Apple, ushers in potentially faster charging times) for charging their devices. The change makes things fairly easy for cross-functional purposes, as USB-C cords are also compatible with non-Apple products.

Action Button

The Lightning port isn’t the only thing that Apple said they’re retiring. The new iPhone no longer has a ring silencer slider on the side. Instead, it’s now called an “action button.” The action button will still silence alerts, texts, and calls by default, but will also be capable of other handy commands you tell it to complete.

Sharper-Than-Ever Camera

As expected, the iPhone 15 variations boast an updated camera system. The company’s stepped it up so that the smartphones have a 48-megapixel main camera with a larger sensor than ever before. The back camera also has a new “nanoscale coating” for handling lens flares and lowlight with expert skill. The camera system reportedly has more enhanced color, better image stabilization, and a 4K cinematic video mode.

Improved Connection

The new iPhones also feature an ultra wideband chip, which expands the device’s connection strength. This chip allows iPhones to connect to other devices from up to three times farther away. It’s incorporated into the “Find My’ technology that you may already use to find your friends, devices, and more.

Apple made sure to address pricing for the new iPhone, as well as existing models:

  • iPhone SE will start at $429.
  • iPhone 13 will start at $599.
  • iPhone 14 will start at $699.
  • iPhone 15 will start at $799.
  • iPhone 15 Plus will start at $899.
  • iPhone 15 Pro will start at $999.

The new iPhones start shipping and hitting stores on September 22.

Store More With New iCloud+ Plans

Apple also announced that starting September 18, iCloud+ will offer 6TB ($29.99/mo) and 12 TB ($59.99/mo) storage plans, which expands their previous largest offering of 2TB ($9.99/mo). The new plans are ideal for large photo and video libraries, or users of Apple’s Family Sharing.

Apple Watch Series 9

Shout Out To Sustainability

The company introduced the Apple Watch Series 9, which is reportedly Apple’s first-ever carbon-neutral product. They’ll also be making another sustainability effort by eliminating leather materials from the Apple Watch. The wristbands will no longer be made of leather, but instead, a material called “fine woven,” which is made from 68% post-consumer recycled content.

With The Tap Of A Finger

The most notable news surrounding the new Apple Watch is the introduction of hand gesture controls. With the watch on, users can tap their index finger and thumb together twice to answer (or end) phone calls, play and pause music, or snooze alarms. Siri can also take commands via the watch now.

Apple Watch Tune-Up

The Series 9 watch is now made with a custom S9 chip for faster processing, according to Apple. The screen features a new edge-to-edge display that doubles the brightness levels, plus the model is available in a new pink color!

Apple noted these updated prices for the Apple Watch:

  • Apple Watch SE starts at $249.
  • Apple Watch S9 starts at $399.
  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $799.

Stay in the loop on current events and happenings with Brit + Co.

Images via Apple.

We're in serious pursuit of something to fill the Yellowstone-sized hole in our hearts (aside from 1923 season 2, of course). And thankfully, Netflix's new showRansom Canyon is shaping up to be the perfect addition to our watchlist. Consider it My Life With The Walter Boys with a little more edge and less "I'm stuck in a love triangle with two brothers."

Here's everything you need to know about Ransom Canyon, coming to Netflix this April.

'Ransom Canyon' promises "it's not too late."

Netflix

Based on Jodi Thomas' book of the same name, Ransom Canyon is about to be your new romance obsession. The 10-episode drama examines three ranching families in Texas, and how their lives intersect.

We have Staten, a rancher dealing with secrets and trouble — just like the beautiful Quinn, who's harboring secrets of her own. Lucas wants a different life than that of a rancher, until a single decision changes everything. And Yancy just wants to use everyone in Ransom Canyon for his own gain. But even this criminal isn't ready for what's coming.

It's giving Yellowstone obviously, but it's also totally reminding me of Friday Night Lights thanks to the football and all the juicy drama. According to the trailer, the canyon "gives us all something to be happy about," and the show will tackle legacy, land, and love. Yeah...I'm tuning in and you can too when the episodes premiere April 17, 2025 on Netflix.

The 'Ransom Canyon' cast also includes some fan favorite actors.

Anna Kooris/Netflix

Yeah, the Ransom Canyon cast is absolutely stacked. We'll see Josh Duhamel as Staten, Minka Kelly as Quinn, James Brolin as Cap, Eoin Macken as Davis, Lizzy Greene as Lauren, Marianly Tejada as Ellie, Jack Schumacher as Yancy, Garrett Wareing as Lucas, and Andrew Liner as Reid. Jennifer Ens, Niko Guardado, Casey W. Johnson, Philip Winchester, Kate Burton, Brett Cullen, Tatanka Means, Jaren Robledo, Justin Johnson Cortez, and Kenneth Miller also star.

Here's when you can watch Ransom Canyon.

Netflix

Ransom Canyon premieres on Netflix April 17, and will have 10 episodes total. I can't wait to tune in! For now, watch the trailer here!

Here are 8 TV Shows & Movies Leaving Netflix This Week you don't want to miss!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Amid dire concerns that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, bans against the app have spread like wildfire. Beyond just government devices, some universities initiated bans, with the latest policy talks going as far as to include personal devices as well. Though it’s unlikely that the platform will be completely banned (there are other proposed solutions, like selling the app or amending its data policies) due to free speech, the possibility of a ban raises another concern: the livelihood of small businesses.

TikTok is a central avenue for small businesses to promote their products and services, with special thanks to its algorithm, says Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO at Financer.com.

“The platform's unique algorithm, which prioritizes content discovery and virality, has enabled many small businesses to reach and connect with potential customers in a way that wasn't possible through traditional social media platforms,” says Larsson. “Since its growth has been exponential throughout the years as a key marketing channel, the ban triggered the markets for sure.”

TikTok also masters the art of connection. Your For You Page knows exactly what you like to see. This gives small businesses the ability to get closer to their audience and reach more success that way, says saysLynzee Krohne, Founder of branding agency LEO + LAINE.

"On TikTok, brands have the freedom and space to be more casual and less branded," Krohne said. "Because of the nature of TikTok, it allows brands to let their guard down a bit and create content that may be a little more rough around the edges—which helps them appear to be much more authentic to their audience."

Jessica Tran, founder of @jtmobiledetailing, says 60% of customers choose her car detailing shop because they saw it on TikTok. Jaz and Sam Sears, owners and operators of@aztaco.king, grew their business from a food cart in a parking lot to two restaurants in less than 6 months, due to their success on the app. Megan Gersch, a web designer and brand identity creator, says around half of her client base comes from TikTok, which often turn into 4 to 5-figure contracts.

This positive growth for small biz is commonly attributed to the app’s distinctive features that connect creators with consumers, such as live video streaming, a virality-driven algorithm, and the ability for users to personalize their daily feeds.

“TikTok has been a great tool for allowing me to connect with my audience on a deeper level,” says Gersch. “There's a special magic that happens with video marketing that you can't achieve with a text or static image post. Your audience gets to know your quirks, your mannerisms, and they start to feel like they know you, even though you've never met. Every time you see a new video from one of your favorite creators, it's like a FaceTime call from a trusted friend.”

In its absence, small business TikTokers would have no choice but to adapt and pivot their marketing strategies, which is not always easy when they’re doing it DIY-style, says Larsson.

“While small businesses may be able to find success on other social media channels, the competition for visibility and engagement is often more intense [than on TikTok], making it harder for them to stand out. The time and effort required to establish a new presence and create content tailored to the specific characteristics of other platforms could be a significant burden on small business owners.”

Small businesses pivoting to other platforms might face different struggles for exposure, due to consumers being very platform-specific, according to Krohne.

"If [TikTok] brands begin to focus their content efforts on Instagram, they’re up against multiple types of content, and competing in a more content-saturated world," Krohne told us. "TikTok mostly has one content offering, and that’s why it’s insanely popular. There’s a difference between platforms. Brands must diversify their content and show up in other places to keep a steady stream of touchpoints to remain top of mind and memorable."

Though Gersch is no stranger to restrategizing, a potential TikTok ban would still impact her business as a web designer and brand creator.

“I've been a marketer for 16+ years, and one thing that I have learned along the way is that you need to constantly test, look at your analytics, and create where the attention is,” says Gersch. “If TikTok goes away, there will be a huge gap in the market that will need to be filled.”

TikTok recognizes the work that small business owners take on in order to find success, which is why the platform has committed $1 million each to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to elevate entrepreneurship in the Latin community, and Black Girl Ventures to support Black and Brown women entrepreneurs.

“Five million US businesses turn to TikTok to take us inside their world in a fun, authentic way, and as a result, they are reaching new customers, hiring more employees and growing their business,” says Becca Sawyer, Global Head of SMB for TikTok. “By partnering with HHF and BGV and launching virtual workshops, we're strengthening our commitment to build an inclusive and supportive platform where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their story, find their audience and drive real business results."

We can’t make a solid prediction for the destiny of the beloved app for now, but we do know that it’ll be dearly missed by small businesses and consumers alike if bans (at any capacity) go through.

“I don't want Tiktok to be banned - not only is it an integral part of my business, but I have also been able to connect with so many incredible people that I wouldn't have met otherwise,” says Gersch. “It's my go-to source for inspiration, learning, and even a good laugh.”

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Illustration by Claire Shadomy

Blake Lively just revealed she's been getting "violent" messages amid her ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni. (Although with the Snow White & Rachel Zegler backlash, she's not the only one. The internet has a lot to say these days). The Another Simple Favor actress has requested "additional protections" from the judge presiding over her trial, which really shows you how insane this whole It Ends With Us drama has gotten.

Here's what Blake Lively — and Justin Baldoni — had to say about the backlash to the It Ends With Us feud.

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni agree the 'It Ends With Us' backlash has gone too far.

Sony Pictures Releasing

Both Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively's legal teams agreed to a protective order (also known as a PO), and on February 20, Blake's lawyers requested stronger protections than the "model" they'd received from the court (via People).

And considering Blake Lively, "her family, other members of the cast, various fact witnesses, and individuals that have spoken out publicly in support of Ms. Lively have received violent, profane, sexist, and threatening communications" (as the letter states), "good cause exists for the Court to adopt the Proposed PO."

Her lawyer's letter also requested "an Attorney’s Eyes Only ('AEO') category, which applies to 'Confidential Discovery Material of such a highly confidential and personal, sensitive, or proprietary nature that the revelation of such is likely to cause a competitive, business, commercial, financial, personal or privacy injury.'"

And Justin Baldoni's team actually weighed in on the conversation. “We do not condone dangerous rhetoric targeted toward anyone no matter the situation,” they said in a statement. "“Anyone receiving violent messages by anonymous parties is abhorrent. When private parties were wrongfully accused by Lively and her paid team of wrongdoing, they received continuous death threats and visits to private homes where young children reside after their addresses were leaked on her initial complaints. No one should have to face that, especially private parties who do not have means for security detail. We do not condone dangerous rhetoric targeted toward anyone no matter the situation.”

Here's what What Blake Lively Had To Say About "Emotional" Toll Of Justin Baldoni Drama On Her Kids: "Traumatized".

Whether or not you understand Web3, there’s one thing you should know: it’s a massive opportunity for almost anyone — if you’re willing to have some growing pains. In this episode, you’ll learn why Web3 just doesn’t have big investors, it’s also a game-changing chance for women and non-binary individuals to get in early where they are typically left out.

Kevin Rose shares his lessons for growing Moonbirds to $500 million in just four months, and Mila Kunis explains how she has used Web3 to launch passion projects and create value for fans like never before.

In this episode, we cover:

(06:30) Meet Kevin Rose and Mila Kunis
(07:36) What is Web3, and how will it shift power to the people
(09:06) How blockchain keeps people honest
(12:20) Analogies to further explain blockchain
(18:03) Kevin's Doge experiment in 2014
(22:10) Mila's introduction to crypto
(25:00) Mila's passion project using NFTs in animation
(31:01) Why Hollywood didn’t get it right
(32:04) Mila's next project with the NFT community
(37:56) The PROOF Collective
(40:47) Explanation of the Moonbirds NFTs
(45:46) How women and non-binary folks have been excluded from financial and tech opportunities
(50:00) How to encourage marginalized folks to get involved in Web3 and the advantages of a diverse team
(55:00) Gatekeeping in the web3 community
(1:00:15) Big picture on web3 and ideas for keeping lower-income folks engaged
(1:04:00) Why NFTs and crypto should be seen more as a hobby

Where to find Mila Kunis:
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/milakunisv
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MILAKUNISV/

Where to find Kevin Rose:
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevinrose
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kevinrose/
• Website: https://www.kevinrose.com/
• Podcast: https://www.proof.xyz/

Where to find First In Line and Brit Morin:
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/brit
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brit/ & https://www.instagram.com/firstinline/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@firstinline_pod
• Website: https://firstinlinepod.com/