Top-rated reviews of the week (pictures)
This week, the valiant editors at CNET reviewed apps both fun and functional for iOS and Android, including the newest version of GarageBand, a gamer-friendly laptop, a great laptop alternative, and the 2013 Audi S7, which was impressive enough to nab a coveted Editors' Choice Award.
2013 Audi S7
2013 Audi S7
The 2013 Audi S7 features a phenomenal amount of tech, both in the cabin and under the hood. An impressive sport driver, its fuel economy remains decent enough for a daily commute. Read the review.
GarageBand (iOS)
GarageBand
GarageBand is the best app for music creation on a touch screen. With real-world instruments, true-to-life sounds, and tons of easy-to-use tools, there is simply no other app in its class for iOS. Read the review.
Petting Zoo (iOS)
Petting Zoo (iOS)
Petting Zoo is a quirky and absolutely charming iOS app, but because it's structured more like a picture book, pass it up if you're looking for a traditional level-intensive game. Read the review.
SpellTower
SpellTower
SpellTower is a unique word puzzle game that is well worth its price, especially since it has such high replay value. Read the review for iOS | Android.
Bracketron Mi-T Grip
Bracketron Mi-T Grip
The Bracketron Mi-T Grip is (both metaphorically and literally) a solid smartphone mount for users who prefer dashboard placement. Read the review.
Feedly for Android
Feedly for Android
Feedly for Android is one of the best mobile RSS readers available. But the fact that it's a more visual, magazinelike reader could be a turnoff for those who loved Google Reader's simplicity. Read the review.
Lenovo IdeaPad Y500
Lenovo IdeaPad Y500
For those looking for something more than a feature-light ultrabook, the gamer-friendly Lenovo IdeaPad Y500 is close to brilliant, and several configurations are currently available at a deep discount -- but I can't believe it doesn't have a touch screen. Read the review.
Super Stickman Golf 2
Super Stickman Golf 2
If you liked the first Stickman golf game and want new levels, new obstacles, and new power-ups, Super Stickman Golf 2 is a worthy sequel. Read the review.
Over for iOS
Over for iOS
If you want to add good-looking text to your photos, Over is a great tool for the job. The interface is confusing initially, but once you get the hang of it, the ability to add typography to your photos is worth the work. Read the review.
Monster ClarityHD Micro Bluetooth speaker
Monster ClarityHD Micro Bluetooth speaker
The Monster ClarityHD Micro is a very good little Bluetooth speaker, but it's only worth buying if you can get it for less than $125. Read the review.
Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11
Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11
The Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 is a great laptop alternative, though it's unfortunately too bulky to completely replace your tablet. Read the review.
Nexus 4 Wireless Charger
Nexus 4 Wireless Charger
The Nexus 4 Wireless Charger is convenient for Nexus 4 owners, but there are other solutions that offer more extra features. Read the review.
TiVo Mini
TiVo Mini
The TiVo Mini is an easy way to give another TV in your home access to your TiVo DVR, live TV, and streaming services. But if you're not in a hurry, you may want to wait until more features and services arrive. Read the review.