Roundup: Alien Pens, Podcast Scams, and a New Desktop Mic

Keychron 100-Key Macropad

Keychron's latest release, the C100 8K, is a 10-by-10 custom macropad that lets users assign nearly every key to a shortcut, command, or macro. While it might seem overkill for the average user, video editors, photographers, programmers, and gamers can tailor it to their most-used commands. The layout includes the alphabet, punctuation, and numerals, leaving around 50 keys for customization. It's a versatile tool for those who need quick access to a variety of functions.

Amaran Desktop Mic

Amaran has entered the audio market with the Amaran Mic, a wireless desktop microphone designed for streaming, podcasting, and video. It features a 30mm capsule, USB-C connectivity (wired or wireless), up to 60 hours of battery life, and three noise-reduction modes: Original Sound, Standard, and AI Noise Reduction. With an 86-decibel signal-to-noise ratio and the ability to handle up to 130 decibels, it's a solid choice for content creators. Available in grey or white, with an optional boom arm coming later this year.

Tactile Turn Roswell Pen

Inspired by the Drake Equation and the search for extraterrestrial life, Tactile Turn has released a limited edition Roswell pen. The bolt-action pen features a custom UFO-shaped bolt, a laser-etched solar system map, UV Cerakote accents, a green acrylic finial, and a space-patterned interior. Priced at 9, it comes in standard or short lengths and includes a commemorative box, sticker, and a small alien figurine. Sales begin August 25.

Fake Celebrity Podcast Scams

Scammers are increasingly impersonating podcasters and radio hosts to trick celebrities into fraudulent schemes. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, these scams use highly specific, likely AI-assisted messages to flatter targets and appear legitimate. Broadway performer Seth Rudetsky and writer Bruce Vilanch were both targeted, with scammers posing as Nikki Glaser and Terry Gross, respectively. The scams often lead to fake tech setups or requests for money, and in some cases, result in compromised social media accounts. This highlights a growing concern: with AI and research, scams are becoming harder to detect.

Country's First Nature Library

Anythink Nature Library, opened this month, is the first public nature library in the country. The 33,000-square-foot branch is situated on a 15-acre campus adjacent to the 140-acre Aylor Open Lands. Beyond books, patrons can borrow camping gear, gardening tools, hammocks, snowshoes, birdwatching kits, and bug-finding kits. The building features indoor boulders, a dark room with star-like ceiling lights, a live plant wall, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Denver and Pikes Peak. Outside, there's a mud pit, gardens, a gravel trail, and an outdoor storytelling circle.