Friday, May 31, 2024

AirDroid Business review: streamlining your company's device management

In this mobile-first world, businesses thrive on staying connected, with employees often relying on a fleet of mobile devices to get the job done. Keeping these devices in check while ensuring security and operational efficiency can be daunting. Enter AirDroid Business, an innovative solution providing an arsenal of tools designed to streamline mobile device management (MDM) for companies of all sizes. 

AirDroid Business stands out in MDM solutions by offering a comprehensive and scalable platform for managing, monitoring, and securing various Android devices. Whether managing a small team or overseeing an international operation, AirDroid Business provides the efficiency and flexibility necessary to keep your mobile network running smoothly.

Here’s more about AirDroid Business, its benefits, and costs to help you determine whether it’s the MDM solution for your business.


Interested in AirDroid Business? Learn out more at its website.

Features

AirDroid Business website

(Image credit: AirDroid)

AirDroid Business offers a centralized dashboard for administrators to manage all devices within the organization's network. This control center allows for remote app deployment, real-time device tracking, and enforcement of security protocols to protect sensitive corporate data. It also monitors device health, including battery life and storage usage, and the ability to lock or wipe lost or stolen devices to prevent data leaks.

The platform is known for its robust security features, including encrypted data transmission, role-based access control, and remote device lockdown in case of a security breach.

In addition to device management, AirDroid Business facilitates teamwork and collaboration with features such as screen sharing, file transfer, and two-way communication tools.

What makes AirDroid Business stand out is its scalability. It can adapt to the growth of your organization with customizable device groups, batch operation support, and comprehensive reporting tools.

By minimizing the time spent managing devices, AirDroid Business helps teams focus on core business activities and strategies, increasing productivity and profitability.

What about BYOD management?

As businesses embrace a more flexible work environment, the use of personal devices for professional tasks is rising. While this shift increases productivity and convenience, it also challenges managing a diverse and unpredictable device ecosystem. This is where AirDroid Business also stands out—it's not just another solution but a unique one that makes BYOD management feasible, secure, and efficient, setting it apart from many others.

A successful BYOD policy meets the needs of employees. AirDroid Business improves the BYOD experience by providing the following:

  • Increased autonomy for employees to use their devices, promoting comfort and efficiency.
  • Flexible collaboration tools, including file sharing and messaging, facilitating teamwork across different devices and platforms.
  • Streamlined work processes, allowing employees to access company resources securely from their devices anytime and anywhere.

Implementing AirDroid Business within a BYOD framework offers a competitive advantage by addressing the complexities of device diversity while maintaining data integrity. Here are some key reasons why AirDroid Business is an essential asset for BYOD workplaces:

Customizable Control: Administrators can customize permissions and access levels based on an employee's role and specific needs. 

Cost-Effective: Improved device management can help companies reduce the overhead expenses of providing company-owned devices. 

Easy Integration: AirDroid Business is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring smooth integration into existing workflows for IT departments and employees. 

Real-Time Support: The platform's capability to offer instant support and communication enhances employee productivity and satisfaction.

Supported devices and installation

AirDroid Business is designed specifically for Android devices, but it allows you to control devices on Windows, macOS, and even iOS. You can also access clients through various web browsers, including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari.

Managing gadgets from afar can present a challenge for IT administrators and business owners. Nonetheless, AirDroid Business can streamline this process. 

To get started, you need to create an account on the AirDroid Business website. You’ll find the registration process relatively pain-free. Once you register, you’ll be asked to confirm your account via email. 

Next, assess your business needs. Identify the areas of your operations that could benefit from mobile device management and establish implementation guidelines.

AirDroid Business provides a wide array of services to cater to your needs. These include device tracking, remote control monitoring, application management, file distribution, document sharing, and geofencing. With such a comprehensive suite of features, you can effectively manage your mobile devices from a single platform.

To effectively oversee the devices, you need to install the AirDroid Business Daemon app on each device. The setup process is amazingly simple. 

Once you begin installing the client software, you can log in to your AirDroid Business Admin Console through a web browser to begin managing your devices.

From the console, you have the ability to remotely take over devices and quickly deploy, update, or uninstall applications across devices simultaneously using the Application Management feature. 

You can also swiftly transfer files to and from your managed devices through the File Transfer functionality for file exchanges.

Two other features include: 

Setting Boundaries: Use the “Geofencing” capability to establish perimeters for your devices and receive alerts when a device enters or exits a zone.

Device Monitoring: Stay informed about your device status in time, including battery levels, system versions, and usage details.

Plans and pricing

AirDroid Business pricing

(Image credit: AirDroid)

AirDroid Business offers transparent and flexible pricing plans to meet the needs of small businesses and larger enterprises. The basic plan starts at $12.00 per year for managing up to 10 devices, making it an affordable option for small-scale deployments.

Discounts are available to manage more devices and features, catering to the scalability needs of growing companies. For a full range of services and specific pricing tailored to the size of the device fleet and unique business requirements, engaging in direct negotiations with the AirDroid Business sales team is recommended. 

In addition to remote device management, AirDroid Business provides add-on products such as Policy & Kiosk Mode, offering a more comprehensive array of security and management options essential for businesses needing to lock down devices for specific uses or enforce company policies remotely.

For organizations looking to integrate AirDroid Business into their IT infrastructure, detailed pricing or a tailored quote can be provided upon request to ensure that the solution fits the business's exact needs regarding device management, security policies, and operational efficiency.

Final Verdict

The features offered by AirDroid Business include remote control, file transfer, device health monitoring, and kiosk mode, making it a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to manage and secure their mobile devices. However, the learning curve associated with implementing these features and the potential need for training employees should be considered.

Moreover, businesses should assess their reliance on internet connectivity to use AirDroid Business effectively. While the solution offers excellent flexibility and accessibility, it's essential to consider the impact of internet outages on day-to-day operations.

Privacy implications are also a significant consideration. With access to sensitive company data and the ability to remotely control devices, businesses must ensure the highest data security and user privacy standards.

Cost is another factor to evaluate. While AirDroid Business offers valuable features, the pricing structure should align with the company's budget and provide a clear return on investment.

Lastly, potential compatibility issues with different devices and operating systems should be thoroughly examined to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure. In other words, if you aren't planning on using this on Android-based devices, you need to look elsewhere. 

In summary, while AirDroid Business is a powerful tool for mobile device management, businesses should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine its suitability for their specific needs.

More from TechRadar Pro

Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2 review: the lens Nikon should have made

Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2: two-minute review

I've bemoaned the fact that Nikon's gorgeous new retro cameras, the Zf and Z fc, lack any lenses that equally pack the old-school appeal. However, it turns out that you won't need to make do with modern-style mirrorless lenses, or resort to adapting Nikon's old SLR lenses with old-school quality, because there's another name in today's retro game: Voigtländer. 

I first saw the old-time German lens maker's Voigtländer D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens at the CP+ expo in Yokohama, Japan. It was mounted on a Nikon Z fc and the pairing offered up a true blast from the past.

Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2 specs

Type: Prime
Sensor: APS-C
Focal length: 35mm (around 53mm APS-C)
Max aperture: f/1.2
Minimum focus: 11.8in / 30cm
Filter size: 46mm
Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.6in / 65.8 x 41.0mm
Weight: 8.1oz / 230g

Made in Japan, the lens might look like it's from the 1980's, but it is in fact a Z-mount lens for today's latest Nikon mirrorless cameras, and is around two years old now.

The super-brief amount of time spent with the retro stunner at CP+ left me wanting more, and I just had to get my hands on it again for a much longer play. Thanks to the good folks at Flaghead Photographic, that became a reality and now I've completed this long-term review. 

Voigtländer's lens has won over both me, and my camera enthusiast father who first introduced me to Nikon SLR cameras back when I was a teen. Mounted to a Nikon Z fc, the gear has taken us back to simpler times, all while offering Nikon's superb mirrorless tech for 2024. If you already own a Z fc or are considering one, then Voigtländer's lens should be your next lens to go with it.

Image 1 of 10

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 10

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand on a Nikon Z fc

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens in the hand on a Nikon Z fc

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 10 of 10

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a Nikon Z fc

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Voigtländer Nokton D 35mm f/1.2: Design

  • Made in Japan
  • Meaningful attention to retro details
  • Manual focus only

The Voigtländer Nokton D 35mm f/1.2 is an APS-C lens with approximate 53mm full-frame equivalent focal length. It's also available for Fujifilm X-mount and Sony E-mount, with each version being considerately designed to match each brand's style. For me, the Nikon Z-mount version is easily the pick of the bunch.  

It's a manual focus-only lens decked with a ridged focus ring, focus distance markings, plus an aperture ring with colorful aperture markings. The focus ring has a smooth rotation, while the aperture ring is clicked. All of these details are crucial; they're faithful recreations of Nikon's old-school design.

If you're already fond of Nikon's SLR lenses from decades past, then it will be love at first sight, love at first hold and love at first use. This is the real retro deal, with the design touches alone enough to elevate Voigtländer's lens to the top of Z fc owners' wish list.

Image 1 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens with lens hood and lens cap attached

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table alongside a Nikon Z fc

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Close up of the electronic contacts on the rear of the Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 8 of 8

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Speaking of the Nikon Z fc, it has shutter speed and ISO exposure dials (see above); but, currently, not a single Nikon Z-mount mirrorless lens has an aperture ring. With the Voigtländer lens you now get aperture control, meaning the manual exposure triangle of ISO, shutter speed and aperture is complete. 

Build quality is solid. The lens mount is made of metal, although it isn't rubber-sealed nor weather-resistant. However, you're afforded the modern convenience of electronic contacts, meaning all metadata is logged in your files for easy reference, including camera settings such as aperture, plus the date created. 

You're primarily buying the Voigtländer Nokton D 35mm f/1.2 because of how it looks and feels, rather than its ease of use – it's a manual focus lens, after all – and, honestly, that will be enough for most people. But what of the images it can produce? 

Image 1 of 4

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 4

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens on a wooden table attached to a Nikon Z fc

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens aperture blades

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens aperture blades

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Voigtländer Nokton D 35mm f/1.2: Performance

  • True sharpness kicks in at f/2 to f/8
  • Characterful bokeh 
  • Manual focusing can be challenging when depth of field is shallow

Technically, you can use the Voigtländer Nokton D 35mm f/1.2 lens with a full-frame camera such as the Z f, but because it's an APS-C lens, you won't be making the most of the lens' image circle; the camera will automatically crop 1.5x because of vignetting, creating a field of view that's approximate to an 80mm lens.

With an APS-C camera, you have an every-day lens that's especially good for portrait photography, provided you get the hang of manual focus, which is pretty tough at such shallow depths of field. Without Nikon's subject detection autofocus at your disposal, you won't get as many critically sharp photos, no matter how long you hone focus nor how still your subject.

There's 12 aperture blades to create a smooth and rounded bokeh, especially when wide open at f/1.2. I've included various sample images that illustrate bokeh, sharpness and distortions, turning all in-camera lens corrections off (although there's no real reason to do that). The images below are taken in sequence at f/1.2, f/1.8, f/2.8, f/4 and f/5.6. 

Image 1 of 5

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

f/1.2 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 5

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

f/1.8 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 5

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

f/2.8 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 5

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

f/4 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 5

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

f/5.6 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Bokeh is cats-eye in shape in the corners; I don't mind that over the sought-after circular bokeh. And in some images the out-of-focus backgrounds have a surreal quality to them – for instance, the photo of the goat with the ground behind it in the general gallery below.

The f/1.2 maximum aperture is faster than any one of Nikon's lenses in this sensor format, giving you excellent low light and shallow depth of field potential. However, to begin seeing the lens' technical quality, you'll need to stop the aperture down to around f/2 for sharper detail and better control over lens distortions such as vignetting.

You're then in a quandry – for many users, the draw for the lens' images will be the fast f/1.2 aperture, where you can get dreamy bokeh, provided your subject in focus is close enough. I've included an out-of-focus shot to show what the bokeh could look like, but the other shot in focus is more realistic based on portraits you're likely to take.

Image 1 of 2

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 2

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Bang for buck, I'd say that image quality is good – and the primary reason for knocking a mark off the lens' score, while its undisputed design scores top marks.

There are technically better lenses available, but none can compare to the feeling you get with the Voigtländer. It has certain characteristics that you come to know and grow to love.

If you own a Nikon Z fc because you fell for its charm, then the Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2 should be the next lens on your shopping list, even if it's a fraction on the pricey side. 

Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2: sample images

Image 1 of 10

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens sample images at f/1.2

Portrait at f/1.2 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 10

Voigtlander D 35mm f1.2 Nokton lens sample images at f/1.2

There's plenty of character in out of focus areas (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

At f/1.2 there's vignetting and detail even in sharply focused areas is a little soft (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

At f/5.6 the detail in focused areas is sharpest (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

If your subject doesn't mind staying still, manual focusing is wrokable (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

Manual focusing for erratic subjects can be challenging. I persevered to get this shot! (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 7 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

I mounted to a tripod for a slow shutter speed at f/16 to soften the choppy water (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 8 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

I liked using the Voigtlander lens for street photography (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 9 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

Detail is sharp if you use an aperture of around f/5.6 (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)
Image 10 of 10

Portrait with pronounced bokeh, taken with the Nikon Z fc and Voigtlander D35mm f/1.2 Nokton lens

You'll need to persevere for sharp shots given you don't have autofocus. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Should you buy the Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2

  • Regular use for over a month
  • All kinds of photos, including portraits
  • Used mainly in fair weather, plus day and night

I've had the Voigtländer Nokton D35mm f/1.2 and Nikon Z fc on long-term loan for this review. The gear has accompanied me on many days out, during walks, documenting family life, capturing portraits – in essence, a walk around lens. 

I've taken the same photos at all aperture settings to check lens sharpness and distortion, and paid much attention to the experience around portrait photography. The lens isn't weather-sealed and so, in general, I've guarded it well – although it has experienced light rain on the odd occasion.

  • First reviewed May 2024

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Relume AI website builder review 2024

Founded in 2021 in Australia, Relume was originally launched as a Webflow components library designed to give beginners a head start in building websites with the platform. However, Relume has since expanded into its own AI website builder, capable of generating website wireframes and sitemaps from prompts alone. 

Relume works by using AI to mix and match over a 1,000 human-designed components from its extensive library to build the perfect website for you. It’s especially good at creating professional-looking marketing websites in a matter of seconds. Once it’s finished, you can always edit the copy, swap out components, or add new ones from the library as needed. 

While it started out primarily as a Weblow-focused development tool, Relume has since expanded to support Figma too. We think that using AI to rearrange a library of human-built components into a website makes for an interesting use case, plus the results aren’t hard to look at. Another area it shines in is cross-team collaboration. Not only can you collaborate on Relume’s designs using Webflow and Figma’s built-in collaboration tools, but you can also share projects, leave comments, and communicate ideas with your teammates right inside Relume.

However, there are a few areas that could be improved upon. Some users have reported minor functionality issues with certain components, which can occasionally slow down the design process. Also, while we find the pricing reasonable for the value provided, it may be a bit steep for freelancers or small businesses on a tight budget.

Overall, Relume is an AI-powered web design tool that we’re thoroughly impressed with. Not only are the component designs — which are all created by real humans — thoroughly intuitive, but using AI to build sitemaps and wireframes with your team in Relume is a fun and easy process. While the price may throw some people off initially, we think that this platform is well worth the extra bucks.

Relume plans and pricing

screenshot of relume pricing page

(Image credit: Relume)

Relume offers both free and paid subscriptions packed with different features based on the incremental needs of your business. Plans are currently divided into Free, Started, and Pro — with prices going up to $48/month.

The free website builder plan allows users to access a limited set of features, including 30 Webflow components and one project with unlimited AI usage. This gives potential customers a taste of what the full version offers before committing to a paid subscription.

For those requiring more advanced functionality, Relume provides two paid plans: Starter and Pro. The Starter plan costs $32 per user per month (or $38 per month if billed monthly). This plan is suitable for individuals or small teams looking to create more complex websites. It includes access to Relume's extensive library of Figma and Webflow components and the AI-powered site builder for generating sitemaps and wireframes.

The Pro plan, designed for larger teams and agencies, is priced at $40 per user per month (or $48 per month if billed monthly). This plan offers all the features of the Starter plan, along with additional collaboration tools and enhanced support.

The company provides a 7-day free trial for the Starter plan, allowing users to explore the full range of features before making a financial commitment. While it may sound expensive as a Webflow or Figma add-on, Relume’s priciest plans still cost less than 1% of the average Webflow project, making it well worth the price for its functionality.

Relume website builder features

By using AI to mix and match design components created by human developers, Relume helps in creating sitemaps, building wireframes, and even generating copy in a matter of seconds for your Webflow and Figma projects. Here’s an overview of its key features:

AI-generated sitemaps

With just a few sentences about your company, Relume's AI can generate a complete sitemap in seconds. It intelligently maps out all the key pages and sections your website needs, providing a solid foundation for your project.

Wireframe creation

Once your sitemap is ready, Relume's AI can transform it into detailed wireframes with a single click. It generates real, unstyled components and even adds placeholder copy, giving you a high-fidelity starting point for your design.

Extensive component library

Relume boasts a library of over 1,000 human-designed components for Figma and Webflow. These components seamlessly integrate into your wireframes, allowing you to quickly build out your pages without sacrificing quality or customization.

Collaborative features

Relume makes it easy to collaborate with your team and clients. You can share projects, leave comments, and get feedback all within the platform, streamlining communication and getting designs approved faster.

Figma and Webflow integration

Relume respects your existing workflows and integrates seamlessly with popular design tools like Figma and Webflow. You can easily export your sitemaps and wireframes and continue refining your designs in the tools you already know and love.

Relume AI website builder: Setup

screenshot of relume website builder being used

Start by inputting a little information about your business.  (Image credit: Relume)

Getting started with Relume's AI-powered website builder is a breeze. Once you’ve finished signing up, simply input a brief description of your company or the type of website you want to build. Relume’s AI will generate a sitemap and build complete wireframes tailored to your needs. 

You can then customize the sitemap — adding, removing, or rearranging pages and sections to fit your vision of your website. AI takes care of the heavy lifting, generating copy and designing layouts based on your sitemap. However, you maintain full control over the final product. You can edit the copy, swap out components, or add new ones from Relume's extensive library of over 1,000 human-designed elements.

example of relume website builder being used

Input a simple sentence about your business and Relume will create a complete sitemap.  (Image credit: Relume)

As you work on your website, Relume makes collaboration a breeze. You can share your project with team members and clients, leave comments, and get feedback directly within the platform. This streamlined communication helps you get designs approved faster and keeps everyone on the same page.

Relume integrates seamlessly with popular design tools like Figma and Webflow, so you can continue to refine and update your site using the tools you already know and love. Plus, Relume's component library is regularly updated, ensuring that your website stays modern and functional.

We found the new user experience with Relume to be very intuitive. Setting up, onboarding, and building your first website can all be accomplished within a single sitting of no more than a few hours — depending on the complexity of your project. The company also has an entire library of YouTube videos to help if you’re feeling lost.

Relume help and support

screenshot of relume support page

Relume offers limited support through a Slack channel.  (Image credit: Relume)

Relume’s primary support avenue is via email at [email protected], which is monitored by a customer service team. Response times vary but are generally prompt, with most inquiries answered within just a day or two.

In addition to email support, Relume offers a comprehensive Resources section on their website with tutorials, frequently asked questions, and documentation to help users troubleshoot issues on their own. The self-serve documentation is well-organized and covers a wide range of topics related to using Relume's AI site builder and design tools.

For more immediate assistance, Relume has a community Slack channel where users can ask questions, share tips, and get help from both the support team and other experienced users. Relume’s support team is also very proactive across user forums and social media, which is always a good sign.

Relume AI website builder: Final verdict

Unlike most AI website builders, Relume does not rely on algorithms to generate your entire website. Instead, it uses custom logic to rearrange an existing library of human-designed components based on your instructions. We think this is a great way to use AI in web design, combining human creativity with the speed and efficiency of AI.

With support for both Webflow and Figma, Relume doesn’t force you to leave your preferred web design tool to use its AI-powered website builder. It also has really good collaboration features, which is great for agency teams. We would have appreciated a real-time support option beyond the Slack community, but the support team is generally responsive.

Bookipi AI website builder review 2024

Founded by Tim Lee, a self-taught developer who experienced the challenges of running a small business firsthand, Bookipi has grown from a simple invoicing app to a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline accounting, team management, and online presence. 

One of Bookipi's standout offerings is its AI-powered website builder, which enables users to create a professional website in minutes, without any coding knowledge. Just enter your requirements and Bookipi’s AI will generate a fully functional website for your business in no time — all very standard really. Unlike other advanced AI website builders, Bookipi focuses on the core basics as its primary selling point.

We liked this platform for its user-friendly interface, responsive layout, and the speed at which you can get a website up and running. Plus the AI-generated content, SEO tools, and Google Analytics integration are all a nice addition to its repertoire. 

Being an invoicing software, the AI website builder is not Bookipi’s core offering. Still, it’s a nice-to-have for freelancers, solopreneurs, and small business owners who don’t want to look elsewhere for managing an online presence. Ultimately, though, this isn’t a platform we’d recommend for building complex websites that require advanced features or third-party integrations.

It does not offer the same level of customization as most AI-powered website builders, but the DIY tool is a nice addition to Bookipi’s growing collection of business management tools. It’s easy to use and gets the essentials right, even if it can’t be used to build complex and feature-rich websites at this point of time. It’s also worth noting that Bookipi does not support custom domains right now, which makes this tool a tough sell for established businesses.

Bookipi plans and pricing

screenshot of bookipi website builder pricing

The AI website builder is available on all plans.  (Image credit: Bookipi)

Bookipi is an all-in-one business management platform that offers invoicing, expense tracking, and an AI-powered website builder. The core invoicing and expense tracking features are available for free, with paid plans unlocking additional features and higher usage limits.

For the AI website builder specifically, Bookipi allows users to create a basic website at no cost. The free plan includes essential features like AI-generated content based on your business details, customizable design templates, and built-in SEO optimization. But it does not support adding a custom domain as of right now.

Bookipi has three paid plans: Starter, Professional, and Scale Up. While these plans offer unlimited invoicing and proposals, they do not offer any improvements for the website builder as of right now. But given the way most AI website builders are priced, Bookipi is likely to enable custom domains for its paid users shortly.

Bookipi website builder features

Bookipi is a comprehensive invoicing and business management platform designed to streamline operations for freelancers and small businesses. With a user-friendly expense management tool and an AI powered website builder, Bookipi simplifies the invoicing process, helps you get paid faster, and provides tools to manage your business more efficiently.

AI Website Builder

Bookipi's AI-powered website builder enables users to create a professional website in minutes, without any coding knowledge. Simply provide details about your business and Bookipi's AI will generate a customizable website complete with text content and image suggestions.

Expense tracking and budgeting

Bookipi Expense, the company's expense tracking app, simplifies expense management for small businesses. With features like receipt scanning, automatic categorization, and expense monitoring, Bookipi Expense saves time and provides valuable insights into your business's financial health.

Invoicing and payments

Bookipi's invoicing software allows you to create and send professional invoices in seconds. With integrated payment processing, you can get paid faster by accepting credit card payments directly from your invoices. Bookipi also offers features like recurring invoices and automatic overdue reminders to streamline your billing process.

Proposals and e-signatures

Create professional proposals using Bookipi's built-in proposal maker, complete with Canva integration and pre-filled terms and conditions. Send documents for legally binding e-signatures directly from the platform, simplifying the contract signing process.

Real-time syncing

Bookipi ensures your data is always up-to-date by providing real-time syncing across its web and mobile apps. Start creating an invoice on your computer and finish sending it from your smartphone, giving you the flexibility to manage your business from anywhere.

Bookipi AI website builder: Setup

screenshot of bookipi website builder

Getting started with building your website is easy.  (Image credit: Bookipi)

Getting started with Bookipi's AI website builder is a straightforward process. To begin, you'll need to sign up for a free account on the web app. Once registered, you'll be guided through a simple onboarding process where you'll provide some basic information about your business. 

The information you enter will be used by the AI to generate a unique website tailored to your needs. After completing the onboarding, you'll be taken to your dashboard, where you can click on "Create Website" to start building your site with Bookipi.

AI algorithms will generate a layout and content based on the information you provided during onboarding. You can then customize the website to fit your brand and preferences using the intuitive editing tools. Bookipi's website builder is designed to be user-friendly, even for those with no coding experience. You can easily edit text, images, and sections to create a professional-looking website for your business.

To ensure your website is discoverable by potential customers, Bookipi includes built-in SEO optimization. You can customize URLs, metadata, and sitemaps to improve your site's visibility on search engines. Moreover, you can also connect your website to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to track visitor behavior and website performance.

Maintaining your Bookipi website is just as easy as setting it up. You can make updates and changes to your site at any time by logging into your account and accessing the editing tools. Bookipi automatically saves your changes as you work, so you don't have to worry about losing progress. When you're ready to publish your updates, simply click “Publish”.

Bookipi help and support

screenshot if bookipi support page

Bookipi offers plenty of support options.  (Image credit: Bookipi)

Bookipi offers multiple channels for customers to receive support for their AI website builder. You can reach the online support team via email at [email protected] or through the instant chat function available on the website.

Bookipi usually responds to support requests within 24 hours. Reviews on third-party sites like Capterra and GetApp suggest that Bookipi's customer support is generally responsive and helpful. Many users praise the efficiency of the support agents and their ability to resolve issues promptly. 

Except for a few sporadic complaints, most users seem satisfied with the level of customer support. However, it’s worth remembering that this is a free website building tool from an invoice management company, so the support may not be on par with some premium website building platforms. 

Bookipi AI website builder: Final verdict

Bookipi is an invoice and expense management tool with a new DIY website builder powered by AI. While the website builder takes care of most basics well, it lacks customizability and doesn’t let you connect your website to a custom domain. While it may work in a pinch for those already using Bookipi for invoicing and budgeting, we wouldn’t recommend it as a professional website builder for most businesses.

Bookipi’s website builder is off to a good start, but we think it needs some more time in the oven before it can compete with other professional-grade solutions. Still, it’s worth a try if you’re using the platform for expense management and don’t mind not being able to connect a custom domain for the time being. After all, it doesn’t cost anything.

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

B12 AI website builder review 2024

B12 is a powerful AI platform with a focus on speed and support, blending the power of artificial intelligence with a human touch to help professional service providers create polished websites. Founded in 2015, the company's mission is to be one of the best AI website builders, alongside being an all-in-one platform that enables professionals and businesses to attract, win, and serve clients online.

In just 60 seconds, B12's AI engine generates a personalized website draft tailored to your industry, complete with relevant copy, images, and page layouts. This gives you a solid foundation to build upon. From there, you can customize your site using the drag-and-drop editor, or lean on their team of design and copywriting consultants to refine your site to perfection.

We were impressed by the quality of the AI-generated website drafts and how B12 equips you with an array of tools to engage visitors and run your business. Contact forms, online scheduling, invoicing, and email marketing features are seamlessly integrated. It also offers free hosting, a custom domain, and built-in SEO. The level of support offered by B12 is on par with a professional web design agency, unlike most no-code website building software.

On the downside, B12 comes off as a bit more expensive than some of the best website builders. While comprehensive, the sheer number of features could overwhelm some users. The platform is also geared towards service-based small businesses, so it may not be the best fit for every type of website. For example, there is no support for the best ecommerce platform integrations like Shopify.

We found B12 to be a compelling option for service providers and small businesses that want a full-featured website without spending countless hours building one from scratch. The level of support it offers, complete with consultants to help design and write your website content, is a true differentiator. Though it may not be for everyone, B12's a platform worth considering if you’re a service provider looking for a premium service and don’t mind the higher price point.

B12 plans and pricing

screenshot of B12 website builder pricing page

(Image credit: B12)

B12 follows a straightforward pricing structure with a focus on transparency, eliminating the need for add-ons or tacked-on hidden fees. While it may seem more expensive compared to some competitors, it’s worth remembering that this is a focused solution for service providers that also comes with the added benefit of human consultants, which is not very common in the website builder space.

The entry-level plan, called Starter, is free and allows users to build their own website, intake clients, and receive online payments. But, like most free website builder plans, this option includes B12 branded banners on the site and invoices. Basic, priced at $49 per month or $42 per month when billed annually, includes features like a custom domain, online scheduling, and client intake forms, without any platform branding.

For more established businesses, the Professional package at $199 per month or $169 per month when billed annually, offers additional features such as email marketing, contact management, contracts, and eSignatures. It also provides a higher level of support.

The most comprehensive plan is the Advanced package, priced at $399 per month or $339 per month when billed annually. This plan is best suited for businesses with staff or regular collaborators, as it includes access for up to 5 team members and premium features to ensure efficient operations.

B12 also offers a limited-time promotion allowing users to try the platform for $1 per month for the first three months. All plans also include online scheduling, invoicing, and payments, which are often add-ons charged separately by other website builders.

B12 website builder features

screenshot if B12 website builder features

(Image credit: B12)

With its bevy of tools and expert support, B12 simplifies the process of creating, launching, and managing a website. It has a range of specific offerings that cater specifically to service-based businesses. Here’s a look at some of its standout features.

AI-generated website draft

B12's AI technology instantly generates a personalized website draft tailored to your industry in just 60 seconds. This draft includes relevant content, images, and a layout optimized for your business, providing a solid foundation to build upon.

Customizable design

Using the user-friendly B12 Editor, you can easily customize your website's design, color scheme, and content to match your brand. Alternatively, you can collaborate with B12's team of professional designers and copywriters to refine your site further.

Client engagement tools

B12 offers a suite of integrated tools to help you engage with clients and manage your business more efficiently. These include contact forms, online appointment scheduling, invoicing, and email marketing features, all seamlessly integrated into your website.

SEO optimization

From the start, B12 websites are search engine optimized to improve your online visibility. The platform also provides website analytics, allowing you to track your site's performance and make data-driven decisions to enhance your online presence.

Expert support and maintenance

B12's team of web design, copywriting, and SEO experts are available to help you create, launch, and maintain your website. This ongoing support ensures that your site remains up-to-date and optimized for the best chance of success.

B12 AI website builder: Setup

screenshot of B12 AI website builder

(Image credit: B12)

To begin, you'll need to register for an account on the B12 website. The registration process is quick and easy, requiring only your basic information and a valid email address. Once your account is created, B12's onboarding process will guide you through the initial setup, helping you familiarize yourself with the platform's features and capabilities.

When using B12 for the first time, AI-powered systems will generate a personalized website draft based on your industry and preferences. This draft serves as a starting point for your website, which you can then customize using the B12 Editor. The editor allows you to modify your site's design, color scheme, and content to align with your brand and vision. If you need assistance during this process, B12's team of design and copywriting experts is available to help you refine your website.

Configuring your B12 website is simple, thanks to the platform's user-friendly interface. You can easily add and manage pages, integrate your social media accounts, and set up essential features like contact forms and online scheduling. B12 also offers a range of built-in tools to help you engage with your audience and run your business more efficiently, such as email marketing and invoicing.

The platform is designed to grow with your business. You can easily update your website's content, add new features, and expand your online presence as needed. B12's team of experts is always available to provide support and guidance, ensuring that your website remains up-to-date and optimized for success.

Maintaining your website is a breeze, thanks to the automatic software updates and security measures. B12 takes care of the technical aspects of running your website, allowing you to focus on growing your business. With its comprehensive suite of tools and dedicated support team, B12 can help you create and manage your AI-powered website with ease.

B12 help and support

screenshot of B12 website builder support page

(Image credit: B12)

Customers can reach B12's dedicated Customer Success team through multiple channels, including chat, email, and scheduled phone calls. The support team is available Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm ET, and strives to respond to inquiries within one business day.

B12's support team is known for its efficiency and customer-friendly approach. They take the time to understand each customer's unique needs and provide personalized assistance. When scheduling a call, the support team member reviews the customer's site beforehand to identify potential issues and formulate solutions, resulting in faster resolution and more thorough answers. Many reviews highlight the excellent work of individual team members, citing their expertise and dedication.

In addition to direct support, B12 offers a comprehensive Help Center with articles and guides covering various topics, from getting started with the platform to advanced features like email marketing and integrations. The self-service resource allows customers to find answers to common questions and learn the best practices for using B12's website builder.

B12 AI website builder: Final verdict

B12 is a premium AI-powered website builder designed specifically for service providers. While it isn’t a good fit for professionals or businesses outside this demographic, it still manages to carve out a niche for itself with its feature-rich platform and excellent support.

We really like the level of support on offer here, with the option to consult with dedicated design, copy, and marketing experts to help take your website to the next level. The level of dedication towards customers really is on par with a professional web design firm rather than a software-as-a-service company. However, if you’re looking for strong ecommerce features or just something at a lower price point, this may not be the platform for you.

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