5 genius products that pull double duty
A gadget that doubles as a smartphone charger and car locator, a spatula that opens beer bottles, and more

Editor's note: Every week The Week's editors survey product reviews and articles in websites, newspapers, and magazines, to find cool and useful new items we think you'll like. We're now making it easier to purchase these selections through affiliate partnerships with certain retailers. The Week may get a share of the revenue from these purchases.
1. Digital Tape Measure ($29)
"Take the guesswork out of household projects" with this tape measure that comes with the digital features of a laser measuring tool, says Grace Elkus at Real Simple. It can instantly convert measurements from inches to centimeters and can store measurements for future reference. Buy it at Amazon.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
2. Doughnut Warming Mug ($15)
This porcelain mug puts "perfectly decadent mornings" within easy reach, according to Gear Hungry. The heat-retaining design keeps coffee hotter longer, and the recessed lid allows for a surprise indulgence: Keeping a doughnut or pastry warm. Buy it at Amazon.
3. Duo Hanger ($14.50)
Everybody needs a clothes hanger that can keep moths and other insects away. This "stylish" aluminum model, as Real Simple describes, has a cedar rod — to repel moths and other pests while keeping your closet smelling fresh. Available in white, gray, and black. Buy it at Good Thing.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
4. Nonda Zus Charger/Car Finder ($30)
"Never go hunting for your car again," says Popular Science. This combination smartphone charger and car locator plugs into the vehicle's lighter to charge two phones, and it lets you use a phone app later to pinpoint the car's location. Buy it at Amazon.
5. Machete Spatula ($28)
The long sturdy blade on this oak-handled stainless-steel spatula ($28) makes it perfect for flipping meat, and the trio of bottle openers notched into its side ensures that you and your friends won't go thirsty while dinner is on the grill. Buy it at Amazon.
-
The struggles of Aston Martin
In the Spotlight The car manufacturer, famous for its association with the James Bond franchise, is ‘running out of road’
-
The end of ‘golden ticket’ asylum rights
The Explainer Refugees lose automatic right to bring family over and must ‘earn’ indefinite right to remain
-
Grecotel Luxme Dama Dama: Greek luxury with a breezy beach vibe
The Week Recommends Rhodes is reimagined in this refined and relaxed resort
-
Russia is ‘helping China’ prepare for an invasion of Taiwan
In the Spotlight Russia is reportedly allowing China access to military training
-
Interpol arrests hundreds in Africa-wide sextortion crackdown
IN THE SPOTLIGHT A series of stings disrupts major cybercrime operations as law enforcement estimates millions in losses from schemes designed to prey on lonely users
-
China is silently expanding its influence in American cities
Under the Radar New York City and San Francisco, among others, have reportedly been targeted
-
How China uses 'dark fleets' to circumvent trade sanctions
The Explainer The fleets are used to smuggle goods like oil and fish
-
One year after mass protests, why are Kenyans taking to the streets again?
today's big question More than 60 protesters died during demonstrations in 2024
-
What happens if tensions between India and Pakistan boil over?
TODAY'S BIG QUESTION As the two nuclear-armed neighbors rattle their sabers in the wake of a terrorist attack on the contested Kashmir region, experts worry that the worst might be yet to come
-
Why Russia removed the Taliban's terrorist designation
The Explainer Russia had designated the Taliban as a terrorist group over 20 years ago
-
Inside the Israel-Turkey geopolitical dance across Syria
THE EXPLAINER As Syria struggles in the wake of the Assad regime's collapse, its neighbors are carefully coordinating to avoid potential military confrontations