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THE BUSINESS OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS September 2026 • Volume 41 • Issue 7 Newspaper Handling $25

The Floor Staff Didn't Get Replaced By AI, They Got Undermined By It

2026 Value Electronics TV Shootout: Samsung Snaps Sony TV Streak

CEDIA Expo 2026 Highlights Growing Demand For Home Integration Professionals

INBOX

Congratulations To The 2026 TWICE VIP Award Winners! The voting is over, and the winners of the 2026 TWICE VIP Awards have been announced on TWICE.com! We will highlight all the winners in our special September 2026 print issue. Congrats again to all of our 2026 VIP Award winners!

2026 Powerful Women in Consumer Electronics Honorees Announced! Join TWICE in recognizing and celebrating the women who are redefining leadership, mentorship, and innovation across the consumer technology industry.

Upcoming Events

All events are subject to change. Please visit the hosting company’s website for up-to-date information.

CEDIA 2026 Denver, CO September 1-4, 2026

E4 Experience Dallas, TX September 15, 2026

E4 Experience Boston, MA October 15, 2026

CES 2027 Las Vegas, NV January 6–9, 2027

Grant Morgan, Senior Editor grant.morgan@futurenet.com

@GrantMorgan77

Winning Through Change

onsumer electronics retailers have faced no shortage of challenges over the past several years. Inflation, shifting tariffs, changing consumer buying habits, and ongoing economic uncertainty have forced businesses to make difficult decisions. Standing still is no longer an option. As former Intel CEO Andy Grove famously said, "Success breeds complacency. Complacency breeds failure. Only the paranoid survive." Retailers don't need to be paranoid, but they do need to remain flexible. Those willing to adjust their strategies, invest in their strengths, and respond quickly to change are often the ones best positioned to weather difficult markets. Recent forecasts reflect the challenge. Circana projects U.S. consumer technology sales to grow just 0.2% in 2026 after a difficult second half of 2025, as consumers remain cautious and continue prioritizing value over discretionary spending. At the same time, Deloitte notes that retailers are facing a "make-or-break" period, driven by higher operating costs, evolving consumer expectations, and the need to modernize aging business models. For independent retailers, adaptation often doesn't require sweeping transformation. It can mean refining product assortments, emphasizing categories with stable demand, investing

in knowledgeable sales associates, or strengthening service offerings. These are areas where local dealers have historically differentiated themselves from national chains and online marketplaces. Large retailers face a different challenge. Scale brings efficiency, but it can also slow decision-making. Companies that rely heavily on promotional cycles or legacy operating models may struggle when consumer demand shifts unexpectedly. Best Buy's decision last year to lower its annual sales forecast amid tariff uncertainty illustrated how even the industry's largest players must continually reassess their expectations and cost structures. Adaptability also extends beyond the sales floor. Retailers are increasingly balancing physical stores with digital experiences instead of viewing them as competing channels. Research continues to show that consumers still value the ability to see, compare, and experience technology products in person, even as online purchasing remains an essential part of the buying journey. Tough economic cycles eventually pass. The businesses that emerge stronger are usually those that spent the downturn refining operations, strengthening customer relationships, and preparing for the next opportunity instead of waiting for better conditions to arrive.

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PERSPEC TI VE

TV Pricing Is Resetting As Promotions Intensify And Premium Dynamics Shift Impact is being felt across every tier of the market By Lucy Brenton, Senior Pricing & Data Manager, Futuresource Consulting

he global TV market is entering a new pricing phase. It’s not being driven by steady value growth, but by promotional intensity, product mix shifts and increasingly dynamic retail execution. Our latest TV pricing analysis, based on daily retailer-level tracking across more than 50 countries, points to a clear reset. Pricing is becoming more reactive, more seasonal and more competitive. The impact is being felt across every tier of the market.

Promotions are reshaping the pricing landscape Pricing is no longer a simple reflection of product positioning or underlying demand. Instead, it is being shaped by frequent promotional cycles, with retailers and brands using discounting as a primary lever to stimulate demand and manage inventory. The result is growing pricing pressure and tighter margins, particularly as promotional windows expand beyond traditional peak periods.

OLED maintains the premium benchmark Within this environment, OLED continues to hold the pricing high ground, reinforcing a clear hierarchy in display technology. It remains the benchmark for the premium segment, consistently commanding the highest average selling prices. However, outside this core, pricing has become more volatile. Smaller, niche categories such as 8K are increasingly influenced by launch cycles and limited availability, rather than sustained demand.

This signals a more fragmented premium landscape, where leadership is held, but not uncontested.

Large screens move into the mainstream One of the most significant shifts is happening in screen size. Ultra-large TVs are undergoing rapid price compression. Models above 90 inches, once priced well above $16,000 in early 2023, are now approaching the $7,000 mark. This is accelerating their transition from niche luxury purchases into a more accessible premium category. As pricing continues to fall, large-screen adoption is set to broaden, reshaping how consumers define premium in the living room.

Seasonality still drives the market Despite structural changes, seasonality remains a core pricing driver. Prices typically rise through the first

half of the year before declining into Q4, when discounting intensifies around major retail events. Price reductions of 5–10% versus annual peaks are now a consistent feature of this cycle. This pattern highlights how critical timing has become, both for brands managing launches and for retailers optimizing sell-through.

A more dynamic pricing era The key takeaway is simple. TV pricing is no longer static. It is being shaped in real time by promotion strategy, lifecycle management and retail execution, requiring far greater visibility and responsiveness from both brands and retailers. As the market evolves, those able to track and react to pricing movements quickly will be best positioned to protect margin and capture demand. To access the full insights, download the free report to discover how pricing strategies are evolving across the TV market.

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Canvas Elite™ Art TV The World’s First 100" Art TV

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PERSPEC TI VE

The Floor Staff Didn't Get Replaced By AI, They Got Undermined By It How will you build a bridge between the two? By Nahla Davies

GETTY IMAGES

here's a brochure version of AI on the sales floor where the associate turns into something close to a superhero: better briefed, quicker to the right answer, sharper at the close. That's the version in the slide deck. The version that actually shipped to most consumer electronics showrooms is quieter, and it does something the deck never mentioned. The AI learned the spec sheet. The associate kept the customer. Nobody built the bridge between the two. Picture what each side actually holds. The system on the handheld knows the catalogue cold: every dimension, every refresh rate, every stock figure, every price in real time. The associate knows the person standing there, that they keep glancing at the soundbar, that they've mentioned a small flat twice, that they're nervous about spending this much and want someone to tell them it's alright. Both kinds of knowledge are real. Only one of them got wired into the technology.

This is the design failure, and the precise shape of it matters. Most in-store AI was built as an answer engine pointed at the product. Ask it about the product, and it answers about the product. It was never pointed at the customer, and it was never pointed at the associate's judgment, because those were the hard parts and the spec lookup was the easy one to ship. So you end up with a brilliant catalogue, a human standing next to it, and nothing in between.

A printout of what the shopper already knew Watch the gap in motion. A customer asks a real question, the kind that brought them in, and the associate reaches for the device, reads back what the screen says, and hands over information the customer could have pulled up on their own phone in the car park. Most of them already did. Around nine in ten shoppers now use their smartphones to compare prices and

research products while standing inside the store. The associate has just become a slower version of a search the customer already ran. And here's the moment that should bother anyone running stores. The shopper watches the associate look it up. In that small gesture, the trust moves, and it doesn't move to the associate; it moves to the screen. Once the screen is the authority, the human is friction, a step to get past on the way to a decision. You've taken the one thing the physical format can offer, a person worth listening to, and turned them into a worse interface to a database. The whole reason for the trip quietly evaporates.

What the screen can't know, and the associate can The fix starts by being honest about which knowledge belongs where. The screen is unbeatable at the things that are written down. The associate is unbeatable at the things that are not, the read of the room, the trust, the judgment call. A welldesigned system doesn't ask those two to compete. It feeds one into the other. That's what clienteling, done properly, is supposed to be. Not the associate reciting specs back at a customer, but the system quietly surfacing what the human can't hold in their head: that this shopper bought a TV from you eighteen months ago, that the thing they're touching pairs with it, that they're a repeat customer worth a small courtesy. In-store, most shoppers are effectively anonymous the moment they walk in, even though their journey crossed your website on the way to the door. The technology's real job is to un-anonymise them for the one person who can use that, and then get out of the way.

Getting it right

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So the design principle is simple to state and apparently hard to buy. AI on the floor should make the associate someone the shopper trusts more than the screen, not less. Everything follows from that one test. Brief the associate before the shift, not in front of the customer, so they walk the floor already knowing the new range rather than reading it aloud from a handheld. Point the system at the customer, not just the catalogue, so what surfaces is context the human can act on rather than a spec the shopper already saw. Leave the judgment calls with the person, the honest downsell, the sensible exception, the courtesy discount, and let the software advise rather than decide. Then measure the thing that matters, which isn't lookups per hour. It's whether the shopper ends up trusting the human in the aisle. Done well, that relationship can influence a sizeable share of monthly store sales, which is the part the finance side should care about. Even the vendors selling this technology will tell you, when pressed, that AI is meant to enhance the human connection rather than replace it. The trick is building it as if you meant that.

What the floor is for The retailers who come out of this ahead won't be the ones who put the most screens on the floor. They'll be the ones who remembered what the floor was for. A store is an expensive way to sell a television unless the person inside it is worth the visit, and right now, a lot of stores are paying for the building and undercutting the only thing in it that the website can't copy. The technology isn't the enemy here. A handheld that knows live stock is a gift, and no associate wants to go back to guessing in the stockroom. The question is only ever what you point it at. Aim it at the catalogue, and you get a faster search the customer didn't need. Aim it at the customer, through the associate, and you get the one retail experience that still justifies the drive. The tools will keep arriving, each one helpful-looking on the day it ships. Whether they build the person up on the floor or quietly undermine them comes down to who's paying attention when they do.

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The Headphones Market Isn’t Slowing. It’s Diverging The middle is where the battle is shifting By Aishwarya Bhide, Market Analyst, Futuresource Consulting

t a headline level, the global headphones market looks steady. Volumes are holding and the demand is there. True wireless continues to carry the momentum. On paper, it’s a category that has found its footing in a more uncertain consumer environment, but this stability hides a more important shift. The headphones market is no longer moving as one. It’s diverging, with very different dynamics emerging at the top, the middle and the bottom.

Stable volumes amid value pressure In 2025, the global headphones market delivered broadly flat volume performance, which tells an important story. Demand for personal audio remains deeply embedded in everyday behavior. But value is a different conversation: across much of the market, pricing pressure is intensifying. Average selling prices are tracking downward, particularly in mid and lower tiers

where competition is most aggressive. The result is a market that is growing in units but struggling to translate that into revenue. At the top end, brands such as Apple and Sony continue to anchor the category. But their priorities have shifted. Growth is no longer the primary objective. Instead, the focus has moved to margin, positioning and ecosystem strength. This reflects a maturing replacement cycle. Consumers at the premium end are holding onto devices for longer, and the pace of upgrade has slowed. Incremental improvements are no longer enough to drive rapid replacement. Rather than a collapse in premium demand, expectations are simply readjusting. Premium is becoming more deliberate, less reactive, and more focused on long-term value. The headphones market is not slowing down, but it is becoming more complex. There is no longer a single route to success. Balance is harder to achieve, but it is where sustainable growth now sits.

SPECIAL

EDITION

AWARDS

2026

TWICE would like to congratulate all the winners of the 2026 TWICE VIP Awards! The annual TWICE VIP Awards celebrate the best features, design and value that new products are bringing to consumers. They are the only product and service awards voted on exclusively by consumer tech retailers and distributors. Thank you to all who entered and voted! A special congratulations to our 2026 Super VIP Award winner, LG Electronics!

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V IP AWA RDS ACCESSORIES

AGING-IN-PLACE TECHNOLOGY

ESR Tech ESR Geo Digital Pencil

Sharp Home Electronics Company of America Sharp Deco Series Built-In Smart Microwave Drawer™ Oven

The ESR Geo Digital Pencil with Find My is a highly compatible, smooth-writing stylus designed to be the first choice for students, aspiring artists, and casual creatives. What sets it apart is its enhanced functionality; users can locate a misplaced stylus through the Find My app and, unlike Apple’s official styluses, trigger sound alerts, making it faster and easier to find when hidden in a bag, workspace, or classroom. Compatible with all iPad models released since 2018, the ESR Geo Digital Pencil offers broader compatibility than official styluses and eliminates concerns about device upgrades. Tilt sensitivity and palm rejection support natural writing and drawing, while optional Bluetooth pairing enables shortcut controls and real-time battery monitoring. With up to 12 hours of use from just a 20-minute charge, the ESR Geo Digital Pencil delivers convenience and reliability.

The Sharp Deco Series Built-In Smart Microwave Drawer™ Oven supports agingin-place and multigenerational kitchen design by making a frequently used appliance easier to access, operate, and integrate into the home. Designed for under-counter installation, the 24-inch Microwave Drawer™ Oven replaces the traditional swing door with a smoothgliding drawer, reducing the need to reach overhead or maneuver around an open door. Its ADA-compliant design improves accessibility for users of different ages, heights, and mobility levels, while Easy Wave Open enables touchless access and Alexa compatibility supports hands-free control. Hidden controls, discreet branding, and built-in airflow venting create a clean built-in look without an additional trim kit.

AUDIO HARDWARE IN-ROOM SPEAKERS

KLH Audio KLH Model Four The KLH Model Four is a three-way acoustic suspension loudspeaker built for design-conscious, highend residential projects. It performs particularly well in urban markets where high-net-worth clients demand exceptional sound without sacrificing living space or aesthetics. At 13-inches wide and 8.25-inches deep, Model Four fits in smaller spaces where most loudspeakers struggle to perform. Many speakers feature ported designs, requiring generous wall clearance to sound their best, whereas Model Four's sealed acoustic suspension cabinet delivers tight, controlled bass with just a few inches of rear clearance, reducing the need for room correction software or extensive acoustic treatment. Its three-way driver array includes an 8-inch woofer, 4-inch midrange and 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, enabling it to reach down to 46Hz .

COMPUTER & GAMING GAMING MONITOR

Acer Predator XB273U F5 This 27-inch Predator WQHD gaming monitor stands out in its class by combining elite esports-level speed with the visual fidelity and versatility expected from a premium gaming display. Its 2560 x 1440 IPS panel gives players a sharper, more immersive experience than standard FHD competitive monitors, while an overclocked 360Hz refresh rate via DisplayPort and ultra-fast 1 ms G-to-G response time, with up to 0.5 ms minimum, deliver the responsiveness serious gamers demand. What further separates it is NVIDIA G-SYNC Pulsar support on select models, enabling 1000 Hz perceived motion clarity and tear-free gameplay when paired with compatible NVIDIA graphics hardware. HDR10 support, up to 600 nits peak brightness, 90% DCI-P3 color coverage, and Delta E<2 accuracy add rich contrast and precise color, making it equally compelling for cinematic gaming.

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AUDIO HARDWARE AMPLIFIERS

Onkyo 80th Edition Muse Y-50 Network Integrated Amplifier AUDIO HARDWARE SPEAKERS AUDIO HARDWARE HIGH-RES AUDIO PORTABLES

Viaim RecDot RecDot – the true-wireless AI earbuds that finally make meetings work for you. Why thousands of journalists, executives, and creators already refuse to work without them: Never take notes again: every word (in-person, calls, Zoom, keynotes) is perfectly transcribed in real time with speaker identification and instant translation in over 100 languages. 48 dB smart active noise cancellation plus Focus Voice mode that isolates the speaker, with triple microphones and bone conduction for clear pickup up to 7 meters. Exceptional Hi-Res certified audio quality that delivers immersive sound for music, podcasts, and calls when you are not in work mode. 9 hours recording per charge, 36 hours total with case.

Klipsch The Nines II Klipsch The Nines II powered speakers embody the legendary American sound created by Paul W. Klipsch in 1946, with its patented horn-loaded technology now powered with Onkyo's precision Japanese engineering. At the heart of the system is an AVR architecture that enables advanced content processing, precise decoding, and dynamic optimization for a true home theater experience. Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X® decoding deliver immersive audio, while included Dirac Live® room correction (Limited Bandwidth) automatically adapts sound to your space for optimized acoustics. Built-in streaming supports Google Cast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and more, with wireless left-right stereo playback or wired high-resolution audio options. HDMI 2.1 with eARC simplifies TV connectivity using a single cable while supporting high-quality audio and video pass-through.

The Onkyo MUSE Y-50(G) Network Integrated Amplifier Anniversary Edition blends the timeless elegance of Onkyo's legendary Integra heritage with the performance and connectivity expected by today's music enthusiasts. It creates a spacious, detailed soundstage while honoring Onkyo's enduring reputation for musical accuracy, and craftsmanship.

AUTOMOTIVE

Wolfbox Wolfbox G900 Tripro Bumper Version Dash Cam The Wolfbox G900 Tripro Bumper Version is the world's first dash cam featuring a true front bumper camera, designed to improve visibility on rugged trails, steep inclines, and obstacle-filled terrain. Its three-channel system records 4K front, 2.5K rear, and 1080p bumper footage, while a 12-inch smart mirror displays a real-time low-angle forward view of obstacles such as rocks, ruts, and curbs.

COMPUTER & GAMING GAMING LAPTOP

Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-71-98RF) The Predator Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-71-98RF) gaming laptop combines a slim chassis with powerful components. Despite its thin design, this gaming powerhouse is crafted for versatility. Gamers who prioritize high performance, fast refresh rates, and portability as well as professionals who work remotely will find it checks all the boxes. Key specs include: Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti laptop GPU with DLSS 4 16-inch (16:10) OLED WQXGA (2560x1600), 240 Hz, 400 nits, 100% DCI-P3, .2 ms overdrive response 32 GB DDR5 6400 MHz dual channel memory

• • • •

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V IP AWA RDS

COMPUTER & GAMING LAPTOP

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 (CP514-5HN) is a premium sub-3-pound convertible laptop that combines efficient, AI-powered performance with long battery life, wrapped in a sleek and durable design. Powered by MediaTek’s most advanced Chromebook processor delivering integrated 50 TOPS of AI processing power, the new Chromebook Plus enables generative AI experiences and exceptional performance with up to 17 hours of battery life. The durable design is military-grade MIL-STD 810H compliant, has an aluminum exterior and a convertible design with 360-degree hinges. Images are vibrant on the 14-inch display, while productivity is maximized with touch capabilities. Available with up to a WQXGA+ (2800x1800) resolution, the display has an anti-fingerprint coating for smudge-free visuals, and a Corning Gorilla Glass finish that provides resistance to wear. Users will look their best on video calls on the 5MP or 1080p webcam with built-in video tools and privacy shutter.

COMPUTER & GAMING GAMING LAPTOP

COMPUTER & GAMING GAMING DESKTOP

HP Inc. HyperX OMEN MAX 16 Gaming Laptop PC

MAINGEAR MG-1 Gaming PC

The HyperX OMEN MAX 16 Gaming Laptop PC sets a new standard by combining desktop-class power, advanced thermal engineering, and AI-driven optimization in a mobile form factor. Designed for gamers and creators who demand sustained performance, the OMEN MAX 16 delivers up to 300W Total Platform Power, supporting configurations with nextgeneration Intel® or AMD Ryzen™ AI processors and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs. A key innovation is OMEN AI, an intelligent one-click optimization system that automatically adjusts hardware, operating system, and game settings to maximize performance for supported titles. Enhanced OMEN Tempest Cooling Pro technology helps maintain peak performance during extended gaming sessions, while a HyperX-inspired highpolling-rate keyboard delivers faster responsiveness and greater precision.

The All-new MG-1 is a total redesign of MAINGEAR's most acclaimed gaming desktop. It wasn't built to fix problems, but to raise the ceiling on something already best-in-class with measurable improvements across every dimension that matters to a gamer. Cooling sees some of the biggest gains. Three 140mm intake fans, a bottom air scoop feeding the GPU directly, and a topmounted 360mm radiator give the MG-1 a thermal environment that outperforms an open-air bench. The patented MG-RC system routes all motherboard cables behind the board, leaving the interior clean and airflow unobstructed. Fully diffused RGB lighting, once reserved for MAINGEAR's flagship line, is now standard with no exposed diodes anywhere. And the redesigned magnetic front panel snaps in tool-free, giving collectors an easy canvas for custom art. Configurable to the latest hardware and hand-built in New Jersey, the all-new MG-1 raises the bar once again.

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Merach Merach UltraWalk W60 Plus Forget the "Flat Walk" of Shame: The 12% Incline "Beast in a Tuxedo" Let’s be real: most walking pads are where fitness goals go to die. Without an incline, they’re just over-engineered, flat slabs of disappointment that gather dust under a sofa because walking on a level plane is a soul-crushing snooze-fest. You’re basically just scrolling on your phone with extra steps and zero burn. The Merach W60 Plus is here to kill that "flat walk" purgatory forever by bringing a pro-grade 12% Auto Incline studio directly to your workstation."

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COMPUTER & GAMING MONITOR

ViewSonic Corp. ViewSonic VG1457 DualScreen Portable Monitor

COMPUTER & GAMING VR/AR HARDWARE

COMPUTER & GAMING WI-FI & NETWORK

Pimax Dream Air SE

QNAP TS-462A

The Pimax Dream Air SE represents a genuine turning point for PC VR. For the first time, the resolution, tracking, and audio quality that serious VR users have always wanted comes in a headset that is lightweight, modular, and starts at just 899 USD. At 5120×2560 resolution, the Micro-OLED panels deliver ultra-high clarity that makes virtual worlds feel genuinely real. Pimax's proprietary optical design makes this possible without the bulk or price tag that has historically kept high-end PCVR out of reach. Built-in SLAM tracking means no base stations and no complex setup. Eyetracking, spatial audio, and a modular design are all included as standard, in a headset weighing just 140g. The result is a headset that doesn't ask users to compromise on performance, comfort, or cost — bringing genuinely premium VR to a much larger audience.

The QNAP TS-462A NAS (Network Attached Storage) is a sleek device engineered to become the heartbeat of your modern home and SOHO workspace. It effortlessly transforms into a vibrant home media center, streaming your favorite movies and family videos to any screen without a glitch. For creative minds and professionals, it serves as a powerful home lab to run personal projects, streamline workflows, organize years of memories with smart AI photo sorting, and automate seamless backups for every phone and laptop. It is the ultimate way to keep your private life and business files truly secure under your own roof. Best of all, it lets you reclaim your digital independence from expensive monthly cloud subscriptions. This is modern tech, rock-solid security, and total creative freedom packed into one stunning device.

The ViewSonic® VG1457 Dual-Screen Portable Monitor reconceptualizes productivity on-the-go. Weighing under three pounds, this sleek, compact device fits seamlessly into almost any laptop bag. Once unfolded, the dual 14-inch WUXGA (1920x1200) displays combine to deliver 19 inches of total viewing space and connects directly to a laptop to create a triple-screen workspace. With five versatile viewing modes (Share, Dual-Source, Full-Screen, Mirror, and Extend) multitasking and collaboration become effortless, allowing users to adapt to any scenario. The 340-degree Share mode, backed by a built-in G-sensor automatically rotates content for face-to-face collaboration without manual adjustments. The VG1457 also features two-way 65W USB-C power delivery to keep laptops charged through an external power source or run entirely off the laptop's battery when on the move.

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Pongbot AURA AI-Powered Multi-Sport Training Robot Pongbot Aura is the world's first AI-powered multi-sport ball-launching robot designed to make racket sports training more intelligent, accessible, and adaptable. Unlike traditional ball machines, Aura is built as an adaptive training platform. Its auto-adaptive wheel system supports 40–80mm balls, allowing one device to serve multiple racket sports without extra machines or manual attachments.

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V IP AWA RDS HOME APPLIANCES VACUUMS & CLEANING

Dreame Technology Aero Ultra Steam HEALTH & LIFESTYLE BEAUTY

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE BEAUTY

Lifepro VibraRed Vibration Plate with Red Light Therapy

Lifepro DualThera Red Hand Massager

From America's #1 Vibration Plate Brand, Lifepro's VibraRed™ is the first 2-in-1 vibration plate to combine oscillating vibration technology with red and nearinfrared light therapy in a single compact device. Designed for both active movement and passive recovery, it supports circulation, lymphatic flow, muscle activation, and post-workout recovery through low-impact vibration and targeted light therapy. Featuring 99 speed levels, nine preset programs and a customizable timer, it adapts to every fitness level. Its integrated red light and near-infrared light promote recovery and overall wellness, whether used standing or seated with bare feet. Compact, whisper-quiet, and operable with a remote control, VibraRed delivers a convenient at-home wellness experience without the need for multiple recovery tools. It comes with resistant bands, a lifetime warranty and is HSA/FSA eligible.

Lifepro’s new DualThera Red Hand Massager is an advanced, clinically inspired device that sets a new standard for at-home hand care and recovery technology. It combines compression massage, innovative finger-stretching, dual-wavelength red light & near-infared light therapy, heat and vibration in one single, portable device for targeted relief, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and cellular recovery. Independent internal tunnels physically separate and stretch fingers, while compression is applied to provide deeper relief and enhanced flexibility. Offering three pre-set massage modes, three compression intensities, two vibration levels, two heat settings (104°F and 118°F), it provides a fully customizable experience. The universal-fit design accommodates all hand sizes and its rechargeable battery allows for up to 180 minutes of cordless use.

The Dreame Aero Ultra Steam is an all-inone floor cleaning system that combines wet and dry vacuuming, steam cleaning, foam washing, and hot water mopping to deliver a deeper, hygienic clean in a single pass. Its proprietary dual cleaning system uses steam up to 200°C (392°F) for sterilization and 90°C (194°F) hot water to tackle grease and stubborn messes, while a foam spray helps neutralize odors, making it ideal for pet-friendly homes. With 30kPa suction power, it captures dust, debris, and wet spills. Designed for convenience, the Aero Ultra Steam features TangleCut 2.0 anti-tangling technology, an ultra-slim lie-flat design, wheel assistance, LED illumination, and smart sensors that automatically optimize performance. An 80-minute cordless runtime and Dual-Heat Self-Cleaning system simplify cleaning and maintenance. By reducing reliance on chemicals and consolidating multiple tools into one device, the Aero Ultra Steam delivers a safer, smarter, and more efficient cleaning experience."

HOME APPLIANCES OUTDOOR VACUUMS & CLEANING

Aiper Aiper Scuba V3 Ultra Aiper's Scuba V3 Ultra is the world's first cognitive AI-powered 6-in-1 cordless robotic pool cleaner, combining floor, wall, waterline, surface, shallow-area cleaning, and chlorine distribution in a single device. Its Cognitive AI Navium™ Mode automatically creates and adjusts cleaning schedules based on pool size, weather, and cleaning history, delivering up to 7 days of autonomous pool maintenance. Dual-camera AI Patrol technology intelligently detects debris and optimizes cleaning paths, while 8,500 GPH suction, BioClaw™ debris capture, and MicroMesh™ ultra fine filtration to maximize cleaning performance. Designed for effortless ownership, the Scuba V3 Ultra provides a smarter, more efficient, and truly carefree pool care experience.

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HOME APPLIANCES ROBOT VACUUM

HOME APPLIANCES BEVERAGE MAKERS

HOME APPLIANCES COMPACT REFRIGERATION

ECOVACS Robotics DEEBOT X12 OmniCyclone

Rowan Nova Reverie

SKS 36-inch Integrated Column Refrigerator and Freezer

The ECOVACS DEEBOT X12 OmniCyclone is a flagship robot vacuum and mop engineered for the realities of everyday living – kitchen spills, muddy paw prints, and stains that dry before anyone notices. It is built for households that want a genuinely hands-free deep clean across hard floors and carpet. What sets it apart is FocusJet™ Stain PreDissolving Technology, an industry-first innovation no competitor offers. Using AI stain detection and targeted water jets, the X12 softens dried-on messes before the OZMO™ Roller 3.0 scrubs them away in a single pass – every other robot simply pushes dried stains around. It pairs this with 22,000 Pa suction, PowerBoost™ Charging Plus that rapidly recharges during cleaning cycles for over 1,000 m² of uninterrupted coverage, ZeroTangle™ 4.0, and a fully autonomous OMNI Station.

Get ready for better morning coffee! Most high-end espresso machines demand a "slow morning" ritual that doesn’t always fit a real-world schedule. Designed as a professional-grade, entry-level semi-automatic machine, the Nova Reverie eliminates the "complex workflow" traditionally required for great espresso. While competitors often require minutes to stabilize, the Nova Reverie’s 1500W instant heating system is ready to brew in approximately 20 seconds. An integrated grinding and tamping workflow ensures consistent extraction every time, significantly lowering the learning curve for beginners. An automatic pressure release system minimizes excess steam after brewing, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps the machine looking pristine in modern kitchens.

The 36-inch Column Refrigerator and Column Freezer combine premium design, advanced performance and intelligent technology. Designed as a fully integrated, flush-installed system, the columns provide generous storage capacity while maintaining a seamless aesthetic. Its bead-blasted, all-metal interior is engineered to maintain temperatures within 1°F. Reimagined LED lighting provides illumination through a fully lit ceiling that moves with the shelves for consistent visibility. Adjustable glass shelving, Lift and Go™ bins and soft-close doors enhance usability while maintaining stable internal temperatures and minimizing energy loss. The ThinQ® platform offers usage analytics and remote management capabilities and more.

HOME THEATER PROJECTORS

Epson America, Inc. Epson Lifestudio Flex Plus Projector Delivering a bright 4K PRO-UHD® picture up to 150", the Lifestudio™ Flex Plus portable projector transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Powered by Epson’s exclusive 3-chip 3LCD Triple Core Engine™ technology and designed with an adjustable stand, it projects stunning images on almost any flat surface. Set the perfect vibe with built-in ambient lighting that casts a soft, colorful glow and enjoy immersive sound with Sound by Bose technology delivering audio you can feel with rich, balanced sound that pulls everyone right into the action.

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HOME THEATER BLUE-RAY DISC PLAYERS

HOME THEATER HOME THEATRE AUDIO

Magnetar ULTIMA

Samsung Electronics America Samsung Music Studio 7

ULTIMA represents the pinnacle of universal media transport engineering. At the heart of ULTIMA lies a revolutionary battery-assisted DC power architecture unlike anything previously realized in a luxury universal media platform. ULTIMA deploys dedicated BYD lithium-based DC power stages to isolate critical signal pathways from electrical contamination, eliminating noise at the source rather than filtering it downstream. ULTIMA utilizes a synchronized clock architecture that derives all system frequencies from a single 10 MHz master reference, keeping data flow and timing aligned on a singular time-axis throughout the entire system. Designed exclusively as a pure reference transport for today’s finest processors, DACs, and reference cinema systems, ULTIMA supports UHD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD, SACD, DVD-A, DSD/DoP via AES and high-resolution media formats.

Music Studio 7 delivers a listening experience that is as powerful as it is elegant. Crafted in collaboration with renowned artist Erwan Bouroullec, its sculptural, minimalist form blends seamlessly into any home aesthetic while delivering powerful, room-filling sound. Featuring a distinct dot design, it serves as a sculptural centerpiece, whether placed on a shelf, mantel or cabinetry. Built-in waveguide technology fills every corner of the room for 3.1.1 channel audio from just a single device. All the while, advanced sensors and AI processing perfectly tailor audio to your space and preferred content. Built for various use cases, it can wirelessly connect to devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for easy streaming. And, up to 5 can be paired with compatible Samsung TVs and soundbars.

HOME THEATER PROJECTORS

Hisense Hisense XR10 4K Triple Laser Projector The Hisense XR10 redefines premium home cinema with a powerful combination of cinematic scale, installation flexibility, and cutting-edge laser technology. Powered by a Triple Laser light source and Hisense’s advanced LPU 3.0 Digital Laser Engine, XR10 delivers up to 6,000 ANSI lumens of brightness, 118% BT.2020 color space, and 6000:1 contrast with an intelligent IRIS system for exceptional detail, depth, and color accuracy. A 17-element all-glass lens, 2.38x optical zoom, and expansive lens shift capabilities make it easy to achieve a perfectly aligned image from 65 to 300 inches in virtually any room. Built for long-term performance with a fully sealed liquid-cooling system and 25,000-hour lifespan, XR10 brings true commercialtheater scale and premium picture quality to the modern home.

INNOVATIVE TECH*

ECOVACS Robotics GOAT A3000 LiDAR PRO The ECOVACS GOAT A3000 LiDAR PRO is a fully autonomous robotic lawn mower built for homeowners who want a professionally maintained lawn without touching a mower or trimmer. It handles complex residential yards up to ¾ acre – slopes, tight passages, trees, and curved borders – entirely hands-free. What sets it apart is the TruEdge™ Trimmer, the first built-in AI edge trimmer in any robotic mower. Every competitor mows up to a point and leaves the edges to the homeowner; the GOAT deploys a flexible-string trimmer along fences, flower beds, and curves, replacing most manual edging and turning the old two-step mow-then-edge routine into one continuous autonomous operation. It navigates with HoloScope™ 360 dual-LiDAR – GPS-free, no boundary wires, antennas, or RTK – mapping the yard in 3D in under a minute.

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HOME THEATER HOME THEATRE AUDIO

Sony Electronics BRAVIA Theater Bar 7 + Sub 7 The BRAVIA Theater Bar 7 + Sub 7 is designed to deliver a cinematic home audio experience in a streamlined system that combines immersive surround sound with enhanced low-frequency performance. The Bar 7 integrates advanced spatial audio processing with room-aware calibration to produce a wide, immersive soundstage from a single soundbar configuration. Powered by Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, the system creates a multidimensional sound field with height, width, and depth, with support for Dolby Atoms® and DTS:X®. The Sub 7 enhances the system by delivering deeper, more controlled bass, improving overall balance and impact across movies, music, and gaming., delivering consistent, highquality audio performance.

HOME THEATER STREAMING

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INNOVATIVE TECH*

ARDGE ARX-100 Integrated Edge Appliance

Crestron Crestron Cevo Mini Remote

The ARDGE ARX-100 is an integrated on-premises Generative AI appliance. Combining a compact, low-noise, and energy-efficient design with NVIDIApowered GPU SoC, it brings highperformance AI to modern offices and edge environments. Driven by ARX OS and an intuitive graphical interface, it transforms complex infrastructure into visualized, manageable workflows— unlocking the full potential of ready-todeploy "Private AI" across your application scenarios. ARX OS simplifies on-premise AI deployment with an intuitive appliance experience—combining local GPU compute, model management, app integration, and scalable infrastructure in one platform, as well as visual management with flexible API / CLI / MCP / SKILL integration.

The Crestron Cevo Mini Remote is built for today’s streaming-first environment. It delivers intuitive, tactile, and elegant control for any Crestron Home® OS installation. The Cevo Mini Remote is designed with premium materials, and brings intuitive control to any room. Its sleek metal profile, seamless glass panel, and soft matte back exude luxury, while the ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling. Beyond its elegant aesthetics, the Cevo Mini Remote offers unparalleled personalization. Customize interactive touch zones to command lighting, shades, scenes, favorite rooms, and multi-room audio, tailoring the experience to anyone’s lifestyle. Seamlessly integrated with the Crestron Home OS, this remote simplifies access to popular streaming platforms and provides intuitive navigation.

The world’s highest-fidelity movie player, Strato K introduces our exclusive new 4K Cinematic™ format and unlocks native 8K playback. Taking advantage of its 8K processing power, 4K Cinematic features full chroma (up to 4:4:4) and much higher bitrates. 4K Cinematic movies include more image data for richer color, cleaner detail, and a more natural look. Like all Kaleidescape movie players, Strato K features lossless multichannel and spatial object-based audio delivering bit‑for‑bit reproduction of high‑resolution movie soundtracks, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, for clear dialog and immersive, three‑dimensional sound. Strato K works on its own or as part of a larger Kaleidescape system. When operating standalone, Strato K stores a handful of 8K, 4K Cinematic, or 4K movies on its internal one terabyte solid-state drive. Strato K can also be grouped with one or more Kaleidescape Terra movie servers to add movie storage and provide whole-home entertainment.

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INNOVATIVE TECH*

Naqi Logix AI-Powered Invisible User Interface (IUI)

Scosche Industries GoBat™ 10k 4-in-1 Wall Charger, Power Bank + Dual USB-C® Cables

Naqi Logix's AI-Powered Invisible User Interface (IUI) is a breakthrough humanmachine interaction platform that enables technology to respond to user intent without screens, touch, voice commands, cameras, or implants. Using proprietary AI and advanced biosignal processing, Naqi interprets subtle facial micro-gestures and head movements, transforming natural human signals into real-time digital commands. The platform creates an intelligent, invisible layer between people and technology, enabling safe, private, hands-free, voice-free, screenfree, and implant-free control of computers, mobile devices, robotics, AR/VR systems, smart environments, IOT and AI-powered technologies. Naqi's AI-Powered Invisible User Interface represents a new category of computing where technology adapts to people rather than people adapting to technology."

The GoBat™ 10K 4-in-1 reimagines portable power by eliminating the need to carry multiple charging accessories. Designed for today’s connected lifestyle, this all-in-one charging solution combines a Qi2® 15W magnetic wireless charger, two built-in USB-C® cables, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a foldable wall plug into one sleek, travel-ready device. With enough capacity for up to two full phone charges and the ability to fast charge up to three devices simultaneously, GoBat™ keeps smartphones, earbuds, tablets, and other essentials powered throughout the day. Unlike traditional power banks, GoBat™ recharges directly from any standard wall outlet and supports passthrough charging, allowing users to charge their devices while replenishing the power bank.

INNOVATIVE TECH*

Shure MVX2U Digital Audio Interface Gen 2 The Shure MVX2U Digital Audio Interface Gen 2 transforms any XLR microphone into a professional-quality USB microphone for recording, streaming, podcasting and content creation. Its standout innovation is full compatibility with iOS and Android devices, allowing creators to connect professional XLR microphones directly to smartphones and tablets for studio-quality audio on the go. Building on the digital signal processing innovations of the previous generation, the MVX2U Gen 2 delivers true mobile flexibility with an interface that fits in your pocket and maintains Shure’s renowned audio performance. Whether recording interviews in the field, livestreaming from a mobile device, or building a portable content creation setup, the MVX2U Gen 2 enables creators to achieve professional audio anywhere without sacrificing quality or convenience.

MAJOR APPLIANCES DISHWASHER

LG Electronics LG SIGNATURE FlushFit™ Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash® Pro, and Dynamic Heat Dry™ with AutoVent™ Dry "he LG SIGNATURE ThinQ® Dishwasher blends flawless design with powerful performance. Its FlushFit™ design integrates seamlessly into your kitchen, while the spacious interior accommodates up to 16 place settings. QuadWash® Pro delivers 38% more cleaning power using multi-angle jets, and BlastZone™ focused jets tackle stubborn messes and bottles. A swift 1-hour wash and dry cycle ensures quick results, while Dynamic Heat Dry™ and AutoVent™ Dry work together for spotless, dry dishes.

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INNOVATIVE TECH*

Cobra Electronics Cobra TrailBlazer 450 Two-Way Radios The Cobra TrailBlazer 450 is a purpose-built GMRS handheld radio designed for off-road enthusiasts, overlanders, and outdoor adventurers who need reliable communication beyond the limits of traditional FRS radios. Delivering over 2 watts of true GMRS power, repeater compatibility, and a removable antenna for range optimization, the TrailBlazer 450 provides clearer communication and greater coverage when exploring remote terrain. Its innovative FIND function quickly scans and matches nearby radio settings for seamless group connectivity, while memory banks simplify channel management on the trail. A large 1.3-inch LCD display improves visibility in varying conditions, and IP54 dust and water resistance helps withstand rugged environments. The long-lasting Li-Ion battery provides up to 16 hours of operation and features convenient USB-C charging with an optional charging dock.

MAJOR APPLIANCES WALL OVENS

Sharp Home Electronics Company of America Celerity™ High Speed Oven Sharp’s Celerity™ High-Speed Oven reimagines the premium wall oven for modern households that want healthier, home-cooked meals without the time demands of traditional oven cooking. The 30-inch oven combines Sharp’s industryfirst Golden Heater with True European Convection and inverter microwave technology to dramatically reduce cooking time while preserving the browning, texture, evenness, moist center and taste people expect from oven-prepared meals. A whole chicken can be ready up to three times faster than in a conventional oven, giving people weeknight speed with weekend-worthy results. Celerity delivers the flexibility of multiple cooking methods in one premium built-in appliance.

MAJOR APPLIANCES RANGES

LG Electronics LG SIGNATURE 6.3 cu. ft. Smart Induction SlideIn Range with Dynamic ProBake Convection®, Air Fry, Air Sous Vide, Pizza Mode and AI Gourmet Camera The LG SIGNATURE Smart Induction Slide-In Range combines advanced technology with elegant design. At its core, the AI Gourmet Camera monitors and guides cooking for precise, consistent results. This AI-enabled range blends professional-grade performance with smart technology to elevate everyday cooking.

MAJOR APPLIANCES REFRIGERATORS

LG Electronics LG SIGNATURE 22 cu. ft. CounterDepth with Zero Clearance™ 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with Thin Door Design The LG SIGNATURE ThinQ® Refrigerator combines sophisticated design with highperformance functionality. Its slim door profile and Zero Clearance™ hinges allow the doors to open fully even in tight, flush-to-cabinet spaces, offering flexible installation without sacrificing access. Inside, premium back panel lighting provides bright, even illumination across every shelf. For hosting and everyday refreshment, dual ice makers automatically produce crushed ice, mini Craft™ Ice, and slow-melting Big Craft Ice™ to elevate any beverage.

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V IP AWA RDS OUTDOOR TECH & APPLIANCES OUTDOOR LIGHTING

Enbrighten Sphere Lights Enbrighten Sphere Lights bring a distinctive new form factor to smart decorative lighting with oversized 6-inch color-changing spheres that create a bold visual statement indoors or outdoors. Unlike traditional globe or cafe lights that rely on fragile glass construction, the durable shatter-resistant spheres are designed for permanent, year-round installation while maintaining a premium appearance. Users can customize colors, effects, schedules, and white light tones through the Enbrighten app or control the lights with Alexa and Google Assistant. The 72.5-foot strand provides expansive coverage for patios, backyards, event venues, and living spaces, combining décor and illumination in a single solution. By pairing a unique oversized sphere design with smarthome functionality and all-season durability, Sphere Lights stand apart from conventional string lights.

OUTDOOR TECH & APPLIANCES OUTDOOR TELEVISION & VIDEO

Neptune™ Neptune™ Full Sun Outdoor Smart TV The Neptune™ Full Sun Outdoor Smart TVs are built for bright, all-weather spaces, making outdoor entertainment effortless. Available in 55", 65", and 75" screen sizes, these TVs are fully backed by an industrybest three-year warranty, reflecting their premium performance and durability. The Full Sun series features a commercialgrade IPS panel that maintains consistent brightness and picture quality without blackouts. With 1500 nits of brightness, these 4K TVs deliver vibrant colors and exceptional clarity, ensuring an outstanding viewing experience regardless of sun exposure or viewing angle. Rated IP55, the Full Sun series is weather-resistant and designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -22°F to 122°F. Smart features, include the webOS Hub and ThinQ AI Home Dashboard.

SERVICES EXTENDED WARRANTY

Allstate Protection Plans Allstate Protection Plans Allstate Protection Plans is redefining the role of protection plans by placing itself at the forefront of a major industry shift: supporting retailers, manufacturers, and consumers in embracing the circular economy and more sustainable electronics lifecycle management. Staples Trade-in by Allstate is a nationwide Canadian program that allows consumers to exchange electronics for Staples gift cards, making participation in the circular economy simple and accessible. As sustainability becomes increasingly important to retail and manufacturing, this program helps reduce environmental impact, recover value from returned products, and strengthen customer engagement. Its large-scale impact is powered by APP’s robust infrastructure spanning device valuation, logistics, certified refurbishment, and responsible recycling.

SERVICES EXTENDED WARRANTY

Domestic & General - US Domestic & General - US Domestic & General - US continues to deliver strong, sustainable growth by keeping our focus exactly where it

belongs: on the customer. Driven by successful partner expansion and strong consumer adoption, our US subscription revenue increased by 106% over the past year, alongside a 100% growth in subscription customers. We achieved this growth the right way. Our Net Promoter Score of 60 demonstrates that customers value our clear communication, easy-to-use protection,

and reliable support when products fail. Recent partnerships with Nationwide Marketing Group, Hisense, and Electrolux extend this customer-first model to more retailers and manufacturers. These collaborations provide tailored solutions that help deepen brand loyalty and build reliable recurring value, while giving consumers greater confidence in the appliances they rely on every day."

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SMART HOME & AUTOMATION SECURITY CAMERAS

SMART HOME & AUTOMATION MONITORING

aosu aosu SolarCam T2 Ultra System with aosuCortex

Resideo First Alert® Smart Smoke & CO Alarm

Schlage Schlage Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt

The aosu SolarCam T2 Ultra System with aosuCortex redefines outdoor home security with industry-leading aosu TrueColor 4K night vision, delivering fullcolor, evidence-grade footage in near-total darkness through its advanced F/1.0 aperture and starlight sensor. Designed for effortless installation, its flexible solar power system allows users to mount the detachable solar panel independently or directly on the camera for optimal sun exposure and year-round performance. Privacy and affordability are built in, with 32GB of local storage included— expandable up to 16TB—eliminating the need for monthly subscription fees. Powered by the aosuCortex AI platform, the system combines radar, PIR, and AI detection to reduce false alarms while enabling intelligent features.

The First Alert® Smart Smoke & CO Alarm is a smart, two-in-one alarm that offers advanced Precision Detection™ sensing technology, intelligent app notifications and seamless integration with select First Alert alarm models and Nest Protect Smoke & CO Alarms. If one alarm sounds, all connected and compatible alarms will alert families to the danger, whether at home or away. The First Alert smart alarm also offers essential safety checkups, a seven-day low-battery warning, critical safety alerts, and the ability to silence alarms within both the First Alert and Google Home apps. Precision Detection provides early warning and helps reduce nuisance alarms caused by cooking, smoke and steam, while sensing technology addresses modern home construction.

The Schlage Sense Pro™ Smart Deadbolt represents the cutting edge of home security innovation, delivering a hands-free unlocking experience combining convenience with precisiondriven security. Utilizing Schlage Converge™, a proprietary technology that uses Ultra Wideband, Sense Pro™ understands when the user is approaching their front door and unlocks precisely as they reach their door. The Schlage Sense Pro™ integrates with Matter-over-Thread for reliable, secure communication across the user’s smart home ecosystem, with hands-free unlocking enabled through Apple Home Key. Sense Pro™ is Aliro compatible and, once certified, is expected to support digital keys from Samsung and Google Wallet.

SMART HOME & AUTOMATION SMART DOOR LOCKS

SMART HOME & AUTOMATION CLIMATE CONTROL

Hisense Hisense Smart TopLift Dehumidifier The Hisense Smart TopLift Dehumidifier redefines a category that hasn't seen meaningful innovation in years. Its world-first patented pump system actively moves collected moisture upward into an 18-pint top-mounted cartridge, eliminating the crouching, heavy lifting, and spill risk that make traditional bottom-bucket designs a persistent consumer frustration. The result is a genuinely differentiated product on the retail floor, with an ergonomic story that sells itself on first explanation. Performance matches the innovation: 50-pint daily moisture removal, 4,500 sq. ft. coverage, and whisper-quiet 46dB operation suitable for living spaces, not just basements. Full Matter certification delivers native compatibility with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. ConnectLife app integration enables real-time humidity monitoring,

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V IP AWA RDS VIDEO & TV OLED

VIDEO & TV 4K

LG Electronics LG OLED evo G6

Samsung Electronics America Samsung S90H OLED TV

The LG OLED evo G6 is LG’s brightest and most advanced OLED TV yet, delivering up to 20% higher peak brightness and enhanced color performance for stunning picture quality. UL-certified for Perfect Black, Perfect Color, Reflection Free and Discomfort Glare Free viewing, it maintains exceptional clarity and accuracy in virtually any lighting environment. Powered by the Alpha 11 AI Processor, the G6 features significant GPU, CPU and NPU performance improvements, enabling advanced AI tone mapping, enhanced upscaling, sharper detail and improved subtitle clarity. Filmmaker Mode and Ambient Light Detection further optimize picture performance while preserving creator intent.

VIDEO & TV TVS: 58 INCHES AND LARGER

Samsung Electronics America Samsung 85 Inch Class Micro RGB R95H The Samsung 85” Micro RGB R95H TV redefines home entertainment by unlocking a new world of color for consumer TVs. The R95H features an all-new backlighting structure with thousands of micro-sized red, green and blue backlights that achieves 100% of the BT.2020 color area. This translates to more precise, pure color than ever possible before, even on an expansive 85” display.

The Samsung S90H brings flagshiplevel OLED TV performance to the midtier. It’s the first S90 series Samsung OLED with Glare Free technology to combat reflections. It delivers real black levels verified by VDE and color validated by the experts at Pantone. Working together, these features deliver a stunning viewing experience for movies, games and TV shows, even with sunny windows or overhead lights. Built with the same powerful processor as the S95H, AI ensures a mind-blowing 4K viewing experience.

VIDEO & TV ART TV

SKYWORTH SKYWORTH C2 Canvas Art® TV

VIDEO & TV RGB TV

Hisense UR9 RGB MiniLED TV

Sony Electronics BRAVIA 9 II True RGB TV

The Hisense UR9 RGB MiniLED TV redefines what 4K color can look like. Powered by Chromagic Technology with up to nearly 35,000 individual RGB LEDs, the UR9 generates red, green and blue light independently at the source, delivering 100% BT.2020 color coverage, Pantone® Validated accuracy, and up to 50% less harmful blue light than conventional MiniLED, all at an affordable price for flagship quality.

The BRAVIA 9 II True RGB TV is Sony’s flagship display designed to deliver reference-level picture performance across real-world home environments. Powered by Sony’s True RGB technology, it independently controls red, green, and blue LEDs to produce purer color, expanded color volume, and more precise luminance control than conventional LED backlighting systems by generating color directly at the backlight level.

For years, the Art TV category forced consumers into a frustrating compromise: sacrificing visual depth for a beautiful frame. The industry standard expected buyers to settle for flat, edge-lit QLED panels that function well as ambient art but wash out the moment the lights go down for cinematic viewing. The SKYWORTH C2 Canvas Art® TV shatters this paradigm by establishing a definitive new standard for Art TVs. Rather than lowering our technical specifications to meet the competition, we integrated the advanced display DNA of our flagship SKYWORTH CE1 Canvas Elite™ Art TV into the standard Art TVs. Resulting in a hybrid of galleryready aesthetic design and highquality performance, far from the strippeddown display of other Art TVs.

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A PPLI A NCE S

Exclusive Q&A With Ralph Newhouse, CEO Of CHEFMAN And CHEF iQ “The next 5 years are going to be incredibly transformative" By Grant Morgan

ecently, TWICE connected with Ralph Newhouse, CEO of CHEFMAN and CHEF iQ, who shared his insights into the state of the appliance industry and the growing focus on autonomous cooking.

are doing it well are closely watching the customer at work and building to their needs, but many legacy brands are rebranding the same old product for the modern age & missing the mark. Even when Ralph Newhouse innovation makes its way to the TWICE: CHEFMAN has grown into a market from these brands, the $420 million business without outside delivery is often late and outdated. funding. What advantages has remaining bootstrapped given you compared to TWICE: Many consumers still don't competitors backed by venture capital or regularly use connected features after private equity? purchase. How can manufacturers create Ralph Newhouse (RN): Remaining experiences that deliver lasting value bootstrapped since day one has forced us to rather than novelty? build & continuously maintain a selfRN: Usage will follow value. How much sustaining business. It’s kept us nimble, time is it saving? How many steps? As long strengthened our core, and ensured we as it’s easier to program your oven on the built capabilities in-house where other screen than it is to take out your phone, brands have been forced to outsource. The open an app, find the device, and search direct result is our unique success in the for the right settings, adoption will never connected cooking space – our CHEF iQ pick up. For us, it comes down to what ecosystem is engineered end-to-end, both parts of the cooking process we can solve the physical and digital components, for the home cook, from picking what to directly out of our corporate office. I don’t cook to plating the perfect dinner. Our believe we’d have these advantages if we entire brand is predicated on a true need had accepted outside funding. that delivers lasting value, and it’s how we built an experience that our average TWICE: It’s been suggested that customer is using multiple times per week. traditional appliance brands are struggling to keep pace with market TWICE: We’ve seen an increase in AI and changes. Where specifically do you see connected appliances, and have heard legacy manufacturers falling behind? “the future of cooking is autonomous RN: The offshoring of engineering rather than simply smart”. How do you knowledge shifted the true value define autonomous cooking, and how proposition a brand can bring. Those that close are consumers to that reality today?

RN: At the most basic level, it’s here already. It means a cooking process that can take food from raw to finished on its own. That includes handling things like temperature adjustments, timing, and flipping when needed. This is already available in varying forms in the commercial & high-end consumer markets, and to an extent through our MiniOven & iQ Sense. Over time, that autonomy will expand to include everything from ingredient recognition to prep and other kitchen tasks, with users stepping in only when they want to. The fully autonomous kitchen is still further out, but as robotics becomes a bigger part of everyday life, it's no longer hard to imagine. TWICE: In your opinion, what technological breakthroughs still need to happen before fully autonomous cooking becomes mainstream? RN: Most, if not all, the technology exists already. Visual recognition, automation, robotics, etc. The market just doesn’t – at least not at the cost & counter space it would entail today. There are two likely paths: a) like with many culinary innovations, we’ll see the commercial market, with repeated actions at scale, pave the way & force costing down to a point where it becomes affordable and eventually economically efficient for the average customer; or b) Optimus or the like advances to the point where it’s managing

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TWICE: Chefman has brought firmware, UX, and product design in-house. Why was it important to control those functions rather than outsource them? RN: Everyone is working directly together on the same goals. They sit together all day, every day. That gives us a speed to market which, paired with the institutional knowledge we’ve built, creates an unstoppable force. TWICE: Looking ahead to 2030, what major changes do you expect to see in the kitchen appliance category, and what role do you expect AI to play in that evolution? RN: Like we saw with “Smart” appliances, you’ll see it all over the marketing across our category and others, with many making the claim but only a few delivering value that the average customer will appreciate. We were early adopters of AI internally, and so far, the biggest impact has been on our speed and capabilities as a team. What's exciting is that we're now reaching the point where those benefits can be passed directly to consumers. Over the next few years, I expect AI to become a core part of the kitchen experience, helping people make better decisions, avoid mistakes, and achieve more consistent results. You'll see that reflected in both hardware and software as AI-first features become a bigger part of our roadmap. Our goal from day one has been effortless cooking with world-class results for anyone, and AI opens the doors to a suite of tools that lived only in the imaginations until now.

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AVOCOR

your cooking. Most likely, what starts as two separate flows (specialized robots for cooking vs. general use for the home) eventually converges to where we have general-use robots using tools designed for their use, rather than humans. What really both excites me and keeps me up at night is imagining the perfectly helpful kitchen. How do we optimize for automation while leaving home chefs the tools to enjoy cooking when they want to, and just show up to dinner done when they don’t? The next 5 years are going to be incredibly transformative.

More In Store Retail AV helps brands drive foot traffic while creating income possibilities By Carolyn Heinze - Systems Contractor News

or a while, retailers have recognized the value that Pro AV technology can bring to the in-store shopping experience. Savvy brands are using these systems to attract consumers to their brick-and-mortar locations, keep them there for as long as possible, and hopefully spend money while on site. On the back end, companies are taking advantage of data and analytics capabilities to monitor the experiences they’re delivering. One of their biggest priorities: deploying and managing these systems and the content they’re distributing on a global basis. “We’re seeing a shift away from focusing on individual display technologies toward building a connected display infrastructure,” said Dana Corey, SVP and global general manager at Avocor. “Retailers still deploy a mix of LCD, LED, and increasingly, EPD [e-paper] depending on the use case, but the real change is that these are now treated as endpoints within a larger network.” Corey added that retailers are seeking cloud connectivity solutions

that incorporate AI, as well as API integration, which gives them the ability to manage content across potentially hundreds or even thousands of locations—and make adjustments based on real-time data and analytics. While AV designers and integrators may not be content development specialists, there is an opportunity for AV pros to generate recurring revenue from retail AV deployments if they adopt a content-focused mindset. Phelps noted that content adaptation and distribution—formatting video so that it can be displayed and delivered properly—is one ongoing service that AV firms can offer. “A retailer with 50 stores can train themselves to handle a platform that distributes the content correctly, or quite often they will subcontract that to the integrator,” Phelps said. “That’s where your recurring income comes from, because you can charge for the license for the content management platform, and you can charge for content management as well. Content opens up more business to the integrator.”

2026 Value Electronics TV Shootout: Samsung Snaps Sony TV Streak After seven straight years, Samsung’s OLED topped Sony as the new King of TVs at Value Electronics’ TV Shootout; Sony wins best RGB mini-LED LCD title By Stewart Wolpin

amsung ended Sony's seven-year reign as “King of TVs” at the 2026 Value Electronics TV Shootout, capturing top honors in the OLED competition ahead of OLEDs from Sony and LG. Sony did capture first place in the event's inaugural RGB-backlit LCD category. In the OLED competition, Samsung's 65-inch QN65S95H OLED totaled a combined average score of 9.3 in SDR and HDR testing, edging Sony’s 65-inch Bravia 8 Mark II OLED with 8 combined average points, and LG’s 65-inch G6 OLED finished third with 7.0 points. In the RGB LCD competition, Sony's 75-inch Bravia 9 Mark II earned a combined average score of 7.9 in SDR and HDR testing to easily edge Samsung's 75-inch MRN75R95H at 6.2 points, and LG's 75MRGB95BUA finished third with 5.2 total average points. TCL and Hisense were also invited to enter RGB LCD models but declined. While new RGB LCD models were viewed by judges as falling short of OLED image quality, the upgraded mini-LED backlighting tech seems to have entered the premium TV conversation. This year's Shootout marked the 25th anniversary of the event created by Robert Zohn, founder of Value Electronics in Scarsdale, N.Y. Zohn founded Value Electronics with his wife Wendy in 1998. “We started [the Shootout] in 2001, when I was just doing it for myself because I wanted to see who made the best TV,” Zohn remembered. “After about two or three years, I said, ‘Let's make this public.’ This is fun!” Since going public in 2004, the event has become one of the industry’s most closely

watched evaluations of premium consumer TV display performance, usually attended by representatives from the TV makers.

TV vs. Reference Monitor Unlike most TV comparisons, Shootout judges compare each OLED not against competing sets but against Sony’s professional BVM-HX3110 mastering monitors used in video production. The judging panel included display calibrators, video professionals and technology journalists, including former Consumer Reports TV engineer Claudio Ciacci, Chris Boylan of eCoustics and Big Picture Big Sound, Eric Masunaga of Modulus Studios, Nilay Patel of The Verge, and display reviewers Cecil Meade and Teyvon Pollard, among others. Judges evaluated SDR and HDR performance using calibration patterns. They scored shadow detail, color accuracy, HDR performance, processing, motion handling and other picture-quality attributes on a 1 (worst) to 5 (best) scale.

OLED Still Improving Although including RGB LCD was the biggest change to this year’s single-day event, OLED technology itself continues to evolve. According to Shootout ringleader DeWayne Davis, a professional calibrator with Audio Video Fidelity and dubbed by Zohn as “probably the top calibrator in the world,” this year’s OLED improvements were more than incremental. , These OLED improvements include WRGB technology implemented in some new LG OLEDs vs. quantum dot, deployed in the Samsung and Sony sets.

Davis explained that WRGB layout has changed this year to reduce color fringing around letters, “which is really beneficial for if you’re doing any graphic work, or you’re a gamer or something like that. But because of [the] change in subpixel layout, it has caused a side effect. When you go off axis, [the display] shifts green and…the field of view has shrunken up slightly from 32-35 percent…down to around 28,” which is “still significantly better than LCD, hands down,” Davis quickly added. More broadly, recent OLEDs have upended long-held assumptions about the emissive, and perennial top, TV tech vs. LCD backlit varieties. For instance, OLEDs were once considered unsuitable for bright rooms, and ran hot and expensive due to their high energy consumption. But modern OLEDs have improved substantially in both brightness and energy economy. Davis argues that today’s OLEDs should handle virtually any normal home environment, especially considering their continued viewing angle advantage over any LCD backlighting alternative. But mini-LED LCD backlit TVs retain one on advantage over OLED: while OLED TVs top out at 77 inches, LCD models are available in far larger sizes. While Samsung’s OLED victory ended Sony’s King of TVs winning streak, the significant development for retailers was the addition of RGB LCD backlighting technology to the event and as a new premium TV alternative. Ultimately, the 2026 Value Electronics TV Shootout not only crowned two winners but showcased the expansion of the premium TV category itself.

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DIS TRIBUTORS

Platinum Equity Invests In Grand Appliance, Expanding Independent Appliance Distribution Platform Investment reflects a broader trend reshaping the appliance channel By Tony Monteleone

he appliance industry’s distribution landscape is entering a new era of consolidation as companies look for greater scale, stronger logistics capabilities and expanded geographic reach to compete in an increasingly demanding marketplace. The latest example is Platinum Equity’s investment in Grand Appliance, a leading Midwest appliance retailer and distributor, which will expand the firm’s independent appliance platform following its acquisition of Californiabased R&B Wholesale Distributors in 2025. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 1930, Grand Appliance is a fourth-generation family-owned business with a long history of customer service, operational expertise and strong supplier relationships. The company operates 31 retail locations and five distribution centers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, serving consumers, builders, contractors, and online customers through its retail, distribution and e-commerce channels. Over nearly a century, Grand has evolved from a traditional appliance retailer into a diversified business with showroom sales, delivery, installation, distribution and omnichannel capabilities. Under the agreement, Grand Appliance will join forces with R&B Wholesale Distributors to create what the companies describe as one of the nation’s largest independent appliance distribution platforms. The businesses will continue operating under their existing brands and

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leadership teams while sharing resources, operational expertise and best practices. Grand President Anish Gauri will expand his role and serve as Chief Executive Officer of both Grand Appliance and R&B Wholesale Distributors. “This partnership brings together two highly respected family businesses with deep legacies and distinct strengths to create one of the largest independent appliance distribution platforms in the country,” said Jacob Kotzubei, Co-President of Platinum Equity. “By building on a shared foundation, we see an opportunity to support continued growth while preserving the values that have defined each company.” Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm focused on acquiring and operating businesses across multiple industries. The firm’s strategy centers on combining acquisitions with operational expertise, including supply chain improvements, logistics, technology investments and organizational efficiency. The key question for the industry will be whether consolidation creates stronger businesses that continue investing in people, technology and customer experience — or whether it becomes focused primarily on financial returns. For manufacturers, retailers and consumers, the long-term success of this partnership will be measured not simply by the size of the organization, but by whether it creates a stronger independent platform that continues delivering value throughout the appliance ecosystem.

Petra Industries Expands Portfolio With Nagual Smart Electric Composters Wholesale electronics distributor Petra Industries has announced a new partnership with Nagual, giving access to smart electric composters to more consumers. Nagual composters were created to eliminate the challenges of leftover food waste smells, pests, and trash, as well as create a greener kitchen with the touch of a button. In keeping with the company’s eco-consciousness, they focus on products that last to reduce overproduction, with minimal packaging and cruelty-free testing. “Many households today utilize composters to deal with food waste,” says Tate Morgan, Petra President. “Nagual’s composters tackle the common issues from food waste with user-friendly designs. Small kitchen appliance retailers should look at their smart electric composters.” Their composters are compact, easily fitting on kitchen counters and create nutrient-rich fertilizer within 1-3 hours with 1-button operation. At 0.66-gallon capacity they are designed for the daily food waste output of a typical 1- to 5-person household. With dual carbon filters, the composters remove up to 80% of food odors.

DIS TRIBUTORS

Everflow Acquires Speakman Brand

Almo Pro AV, Hall Research Expand Distribution Partnership

orth American Pro AV distributor Almo Pro AV and Hall Research, global provider of Pro AV signal management and distribution solutions, have announced an expanded distribution partnership. Through this agreement, Hall Research’s newly aligned portfolio of five AV-focused brands, including Hall Technologies, Atlona, Captivate, Javelin, and Gain Audio, is now fully available through Almo Pro AV. “Atlona has been a trusted brand for our customers for many years, and that doesn’t change,” said Rob Ziv, Senior Vice President of Business Development & Strategy at Almo Pro AV. “What does change is the opportunity. With Hall Research as the parent company, integrators now gain access to a broader set of complementary solutions, while continuing to rely on the Atlona products and support they know.” All Hall Research brand group products are available through Almo Pro AV, supported by dedicated sales teams, training, support, services, and technical resources designed to help integrators stay competitive and grow their business. Almo Pro AV customers, many of whom have long relied on Atlona solutions, now have access to a broader portfolio of complementary AV brands under the Hall Research umbrella, including Hall Technologies (healthcare), Atlona (switching and signal extension), Captivate

(collaboration tools), Javelin (cabling/ accessories), and Gain Audio (audio/ speakers). Importantly, the Atlona products and value proposition remain unchanged, with continuity in innovation, quality, and support, now backed by a stronger parent organization. “By aligning these five brands under a stronger, more unified portfolio, we’re making it easier for integrators to identify, specify, and deploy the right solutions for each project,” added Ken Eagle, CEO of Hall Research. “By expanding our partnership, we are leveraging Almo Pro AV’s distribution strength to ensure that integrators have the access and support they need to fully leverage these technologies.” Hall Research’s acquisition of Atlona brings together more than 40 years of signal management expertise with 20+ years of AV innovation from Atlona, creating a unified ecosystem. As a longtime Atlona distribution partner, Almo Pro AV is uniquely positioned to help customers navigate the expanded portfolio and identify new opportunities across the Hall Research brand group. The additional brands provide integrators with more flexibility across signal management, collaboration, cabling, and audio – while maintaining the simplicity of working with a single, trusted distributor.

Everflow Supplies recently announced the acquisition of the Speakman brand from mSupply, marking a significant milestone for both organizations and positioning the brand for continued growth across existing and emerging markets. “Speakman is a highly respected brand with a remarkable legacy and strong market presence,” said Andrew Pacifico, Chief Executive Officer of Everflow. “This acquisition supports our long-term strategy of building a leading house of trusted brands and expanding our ability to serve customers across multiple markets and verticals. We are excited to welcome the Speakman team and invest in the brand’s continued growth.” For over 150 years, Speakman has built a reputation for quality, innovation, and performance across commercial, hospitality, and residential applications. As one of the industry’s most recognized brands, Speakman has earned the trust of customers through generations of product innovation and a commitment to excellence. “Speakman has spent more than 150 years earning the trust of customers through innovation, performance, and quality, said Sharmin Welch, VP of Strategic Accounts at Speakman. “We are excited about this next chapter for the brand and the opportunities it creates for our employees, customers, representatives, and partners. Everflow’s commitment to growth, customer service, and brand development makes them an ideal home for Speakman’s future.” Additional details and future opportunities will be shared in the coming months.

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CEDI A PRE V IE W

Duncan Wardle To Keynote CEDIA Expo 2026 Former Disney innovation executive to discuss creativity and AI-era differentiation for integrators

ormer Disney executive Duncan Wardle has been announced as the keynote speaker for CEDIA Expo 2026, with the presentation scheduled for Sept. 2 at 8 a.m. in the Mile High Ballroom. Wardle, who spent 25 years at Disney leading innovation and creative strategy initiatives, is expected to focus on how custom integrators can apply creative thinking and design-driven approaches as AI and automation continue reshaping the smart home industry. During his tenure at Disney, Wardle worked with divisions including Lucasfilm, Marvel, Pixar, Disney Imagineering, and Disney Animation. His work centered on helping teams develop new experiences and storytelling concepts across parks, media, and

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entertainment properties. According to CEDIA, Wardle’s keynote will explore practical techniques integrators can use to think more creatively, improve collaboration, and uncover new business opportunities during client engagements. The session will also introduce design-thinking concepts tied to a related CEDIA workshop taking place later that day. “I hope to not only inspire everyone to want to innovate but give them tools that take the intimidation out of innovation to make creativity tangible and the process fun,” Wardle said in the announcement. Following his Disney career, Wardle has focused on consulting, keynote speaking, and innovation workshops for organizations looking to encourage

creative problem-solving within their teams. He has also taught innovation and creativity courses at Harvard, Yale, and Stanford. Daryl Friedman, global president and CEO of CEDIA, said the keynote aligns with the custom integration industry’s growing focus on experience-driven design and human-centered skills as AI tools become more common. “Smart home professionals are in the business of creating experiences that feel a little like magic in people’s homes,” Friedman said. “As AI continues to evolve, the real differentiator will be human skills like creativity, intuition, and curiosity.” For more information, visit cediaexpo.com/keynote.

CEDI A PRE V IE W

CEDIA Expo 2026 Highlights Growing Demand For Home Integration Professionals Positioning integrators as essential partners in designing smarter, more efficient homes

rom EV charging and home security to streaming entertainment, remote work infrastructure, and energy management, consumers are relying on more connected technologies than ever before. As these systems expand across the home, industry leaders say professional integration is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity “The singular argument for DIY is cost, but the case for an integration professional is Total Cost of Ownership,” said Jason McGraw, group vice president and show director, CEDIA Expo/Commercial Integrator Expo. “Homeowners, WFH professionals, entrepreneurs, parents, gamers, fitness enthusiasts, movie buffs, and binge watchers all rely on network integration for the effective use of their doors and locks, fitness equipment, screens and sound systems, security cameras, computers, displays, and printers. You want that network and the connected devices operating as efficiently, securely,

and reliably as possible. That is why the most successful homes in the most admired neighborhoods typically feature work by an integration professional.” Once centered primarily on audio and video installations, integrators today are increasingly involved in networking, lighting, shading, access control, energy storage and whole-home automation. A trusted home integration professional has become as important to homeowners and renters as a trusted plumber, electrician, or HVAC technician. The role has evolved considerably in recent years from audiovisual systems integration to now also include security systems and access control integration, IT/WIFI optimization, shading systems, lighting, backup energy, and more. Additionally, the areas within a home have extended beyond a home theater in luxury homes to now include outdoor entertainment areas, multi-use zones, home offices, bedrooms, home gyms, and

garages. And the homes serviced have broadened to new demographic groups and new neighborhoods. CEDIA Expo/CIX draws over 15,000 integration professionals including business owners, their teams (typically highly trained, vocationally and college educated) technicians, brands, and a broad array of lighting, sound, video, security, shading, robotics, and energy manufacturers in between. “Successful Americans spend much of their income and time on their home and in their home, and yet so much value and opportunity falls through the DIY gap,” says McGraw. “With so much technological, demographic, and societal change reshaping how we select our homes, use our homes, invest in homes, and enjoy our homes, it’s only a matter of time before the home integration professional is called to design and optimize systems for everyday homeowners.” McGraw references the following shifts: WFH — 22% of the U.S. workforce, approximately 32.6 million Americans, work remotely as of 2025 (13% fully remote, 26% in hybrid arrangements) (Eye on Housing / BLS, 2025) EV Adoption — EVs represented 7.8% of all new U.S. vehicle sales in full-year 2025, with 1.26 million EVs registered — the second-best year on record (Cox Automotive, 2025) Multiple Streaming Services — The average U.S. household subscribes to approximately four streaming services, spending ~$61–$70/month; 89% of U.S. households pay for at least one (MNTN Research / Deloitte Digital Media Trends, 2025) Solar Adoption/Energy Bank Adoption — The U.S. installed 57.6 GWh of new energy storage in 2025 — the largest single year on record; residential battery storage grew 51% year-over-year, reaching 3.1 GWh (SEIA, 2025) Home Security System — 61% of U.S. households now have at least one security camera (up from 52% in 2024); 28% have a professionally monitored security system (~30.2 million homes) (SafeHome.org, 2026)

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CEDI A PRE V IE W

• Home Fitness Trend — The U.S. home

fitness equipment market was valued at $11.01 billion in 2025; 33% of U.S. exercisers use home fitness options, up from 24% pre-pandemic (PT Pioneer, 2025) Home Schooling Trend — 6.5% of U.S. school-age children — approximately 3.4 million students — were homeschooled in 2024–2025, growing at nearly 3x the pre-pandemic rate (NHERI, 2025) Home Starlink Adoption — Starlink surpassed 2 million U.S. residential subscribers as of mid-2025, ranking it the 7th largest fixed broadband provider in the country (Broadband Breakfast, 2025) American Energy Cost Averages — The national average residential electricity rate reached 17.01 cents/ kWh in 2025, a 2.6% increase from 2024, costing the average U.S. household approximately $140–$145/ month (U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2025) McGraw notes that for many Americans, system integration is a must-have vs. a nice-to-have. “For senior executives, if you are working from home for a large enterprise, the enterprise security envelope should extend to your home,” he says. “If you are running a home-based startup, you need reliable Wi-Fi. If you are in a region that experiences blackouts, you need a consistent, resilient power strategy. If you are homeschooling kids, you need access to education platforms, and if you’ve paid your dues in the workforce and wish to age in place in the home that you made for yourself and your family, you should be able to do that affordably and confidently. Integration professionals facilitate it all.” “If a technology is attached to the home — a television to a wall mount, a smart lock on door, smart shading on windows, backup energy installed in the garage — then the technology can be included on a mortgage and whereas the cost may be spread over time, the payoff on some technologies — like energy savings or productivity gains — can be immediate,” McGraw notes. “This is another strong argument for hiring systems integration professionals!”

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CEDIA Releases 3 New Human-Centric White Papers

EDIA has introduced three new white papers discussing HumanCentric Lighting written by technical writer and educator David Meyer and reviewed by lighting designer Andy Bull and CEDIA director of technical education programs Ken Erdmann. CEDIA white papers are free to download for CEDIA members. Visit cedia.org/education/white-papers.

Human-Centric Lighting Part 1: Why We Need It Humans evolved spending bright days outdoors and nights in relative darkness. Our physiological systems have functioned for millennia around this distinct daily cycle. But now we spend most of the time indoors, with artificial light enabling varying degrees of light at any time of day or night. We’re well adapted psychologically to artificial light, harnessing it to elongate our days and to enhance convenience, productivity, and entertainment. But it comes at some cost to human wellbeing. This white paper will explain how integrators can optimize the light throughout the day and night to best support human health and wellbeing.

Human-Centric Lighting Part 2: Artificial Light

The advent of artificial light has extended our days and enabled more indoor lifestyles. Incandescent lights that are being phased out due to their inefficiency, but it turns out their energy-efficient replacements are less healthy for our photobiology and are exacerbating disruption to our circadian systems. This white paper explores the most common lighting technologies and the attributes that together determine the quality of artificial light — color temperature and accuracy, spectral power distribution and blue light content, brightness, and flicker. It also investigates the juxtaposition of energy efficiency mandates versus humancentric lighting needs and standards for determining circadian illuminance in the smart home.

Human-Centric Lighting Part 3: Design This document explores the design aspects of human-centric lighting in the home. It requires a holistic approach, considering the spectral mix, quality, and timing of light throughout the day and night to best deliver the functional and photobiological needs of a home’s occupants to benefit their comfort, productivity, and wellbeing.

INDUS TRY

September 2026 • Volume 41 • Issue 7 www.twice.com CONTENT Senior Editor Grant Morgan, grant.morgan@futurenet.com Art Editors Matt Lochrie and Rosie Webber Production Manager Nicole Schilling ADVERTISING SALES Managing Vice President of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein, adam.goldstein@futurenet.com, 212-378-0465 SUBSCRIBER CUSTOMER SERVICE To subscribe, change your address, or check on your current account status, go to www.twice.com and click on About Us, email futureplc@ computerfulfillment.com, call 888-266-5828, or write P.O. Box 254, Lowell, MA 01853. LICENSING/REPRINTS/PERMISSIONS Twice is available for licensing. Contact the Licensing team to discuss partnership opportunities. Head of Print Licensing Rachel Shaw, licensing@futurenet.com

Kanto Living Acquires Furrion Outdoor TV Assets Deal expands Kanto’s outdoor entertainment portfolio with TVs, audio products, mounts, and customer support operations

anto Living has entered into an agreement with Lippert Components to acquire select assets associated with the Furrion outdoor TV product line, expanding its footprint in the outdoor entertainment market. The acquisition includes outdoor televisions, related audio products, mounts, protective covers, customer relationships, inventory, and manufacturing tooling. The transaction is designed to ensure continued support for existing Furrion outdoor TV customers while positioning Kanto for future growth in the category. “We see a strong opportunity in the outdoor TV and audio category and believe the Furrion product lineup complements Kanto’s existing strengths in consumer electronics,” said David Reid, CEO of Kanto Living. “Our focus will be on ensuring continuity for customers while

continuing to support and grow the product line over time.” Lippert said the move places the product line with a company that is well-suited to continue serving the outdoor entertainment market, and Kanto anticipates the transition to be seamless, with no immediate disruption to product availability or customer support as the assets are integrated into its portfolio. “Furrion has built strong relationships throughout the outdoor entertainment category over many years, and we believe Kanto is well-positioned to continue supporting customers and growing the product line going forward,” said Mark Boessler, Senior Vice President of Lippert Aftermarket. “Kanto understands the customer base, the products, and the importance of maintaining continuity throughout the transition.”

MANAGEMENT SVP, MD, B2B Amanda Darman-Allen VP, Market Lead Carmel King MD, Content, AV Anthony Savona VP, Global Head of Sales, B2B Dena Malouf Managing VP of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein VP, Global Head of Strategy & Ops, B2B Allison Markert VP, Product & Marketing, B2B Andrew Buchholz Head of Production US & UK Mark Constance Head of Design, B2B Nicole Cobban FUTURE US, INC. 130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10036

All contents © 2026 Future US, Inc. or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/or have the necessary rights/permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/ all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions. Please Recycle. We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards.

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CTA Introduces New Art Tech Category For CES Innovation Awards Christie’s to help curate a panel of expert judges for the category

he Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has partnered with Christie’s to launch a new Art Tech category for the CES Innovation Awards program. “Art has always evolved alongside technology, from the invention of photography to digital media and beyond,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President and CEO, CTA. “With the introduction of the Art Tech category for the CES Innovation Awards, we’re recognizing the innovators who are expanding what’s possible for artists, cultural institutions and audiences around the world. Partnering with Christie’s brings unmatched expertise, ensuring this category is shaped by leaders who truly understand the global art market.” The new Art Tech category recognizes technology that meaningfully advances how art and cultural assets are created, experienced, preserved, owned and exchanged. As technology continues to expand creativity, the art tech category celebrates innovations that empower artists, elevate human expression and enhance cultural engagement. Developed in collaboration with Christie’s, the category highlights how emerging technologies are reshaping the art ecosystem while preserving its human core. Christie’s will also help curate a panel of expert judges for the category, drawing on its deep expertise and global network

across the art market. “This new category underscores how today’s technologies are supporting artists and institutions in profound ways — from creating immersive experiences to safeguarding cultural heritage,” said Devang Thakkar, Global Head of Christie’s Ventures. “We’re proud to partner with CTA to spotlight innovation that strengthens the vital role of artists in society.” To qualify, submissions must demonstrate that technology is the core differentiator, not merely a delivery mechanism. The Art Tech category invites submissions across a broad spectrum of hardware, software and platforms, spanning five key areas: Creative Tools: Technologies that expand how artists create, including generative AI, algorithmic engines and virtual reality environments Audience Engagement: Innovations that transform how audiences experience art, such as augmented and virtual reality, projection mapping and immersive installations Discovery and Context: Solutions for discovering and contextualizing art, including AI-powered curation tools, virtual docents and semantic archive search Cultural Preservation: Technologies protecting cultural heritage, such as 3D scanning, digital twins and AI-assisted conservation Authentication and Commerce: Innovations in authentication, valuation and commerce, including provenance tracking, blockchain ownership platforms and pricing analytics

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Midea America Corporation Announces Leadership Transition Midea America Corporation (MAC) announced that John Herrington will step away from his role as President of MAC effective September John Herrington 30, 2026. During Herrington's tenure, Midea has expanded its market presence across Major Appliances, Home Comfort, Floor Care and Small Appliances, and significantly expanded its customer base. "Since joining Midea America Corporation in January 2024, John's impact has been immediate and profound," said Avant Bai, President of Midea Americas Region. "Under his leadership, our business has achieved remarkable growth and evolved into a true full-home solutions provider. Beyond his strategic vision, John's exceptional mentorship has deeply inspired our team. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions to strengthening Midea's market position and wish him the best in his next chapter." Herrington will serve as an advisor to MAC through the end of the year with plans to support a seamless handoff to the next generation of MAC leadership. A distinguished executive with more than 42 years of experience in the home appliances and consumer electronics industry, Herrington spent nearly three years transforming Midea into one of the fastest growing appliance brands in the U.S. market.

INDUS TRY

Beyond The Promotional Lift: What Early Summer Sales Reveal About Future Consumer Behavior Consumers remain willing to spend, but they are becoming far more intentional By Marshal Cohen, Chief Retail Advisor, Circana

Earlier Promotions, Softer Results Retailers entered the summer selling season with promotions launching earlier than usual, hoping to capture consumer spending and create momentum heading into the back half of the year. The strategy generated some positive results, with discretionary general merchandise sales revenue increasing 6% week over week and non-edible consumer packaged goods (CPG) growing 3%, while demand volume remained relatively flat. However, the week-over-week lift was smaller than those achieved during comparable summer promotional periods in recent years. The earlier timing of the events, coupled with their placement immediately following Father’s Day, appeared to dilute their overall impact. Rather than creating incremental demand, promotions largely shifted the timing of

CIRCANA

his year’s early summer retail promotions offered more than a snapshot of retail performance – they provided important clues about how consumers are approaching spending in a complex market. While June promotions generated modest sales gains, the results reinforce a growing reality: Consumers remain willing to spend, but they are becoming far more intentional about when, where, and why they make purchases. For retailers and brands, the biggest takeaway may be that the true read on consumer demand has yet to come. The back-to-school season — once a predictable summer shopping event — has evolved into a more fluid and extended spending period that will likely shape retail performance through the fall.

purchases. Consumers are becoming more strategic about when they buy, and how they spend. Despite the softer promotional environment, there were bright spots. Within discretionary general merchandise, beauty and toys emerged as the top-performing segments, demonstrating consumers’ continued willingness to spend on categories that deliver either emotional value, self-care, or family engagement.

Resilient but Calculated Consumers Despite economic uncertainty and ongoing pressures on household budgets, discretionary spending remains largely on par with last year. That stability speaks to the resilience of today’s consumer. However, resilience should not be confused with confidence. Consumers are increasingly calculated in their decisionmaking — comparing prices, evaluating promotions, researching alternatives, and waiting for the right purchase opportunity. Discounts remain influential, but consumers are no longer responding blindly to promotional activity. Instead,

spending occurs when three factors align: need, value, and timing. Consumers have not left the market — they have simply become more disciplined participants in it. As retailers move toward the holiday season, this pattern will likely continue, producing stronger promotional peaks alongside more pronounced spending lulls between major buying events. The retail industry has not experienced this level of selective discretionary spending since the uncertainty that characterized the early phases of the pandemic. Retailers and brands will need to work harder to remain top of mind. Competitive pricing is still important, but success will increasingly depend on creating relevance, communicating value, and connecting products to genuine consumer needs. The coming months will likely reward retailers that adapt to a longer, more fragmented shopping season and maintain relevance throughout it. The consumer is still spending — but increasingly on their own timetables. Back-to-school shopping, not June promotions, may ultimately provide the clearest indicator of retail health for the remainder of the year.

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