Tech Retailer Supplement February-March 2023

USHERING IN A NEW ERA

Welcome to the inaugural Tech Retailer Special Supplement, brought to you by Appliance Retailer.

RECOGNISING THE increasing role technology plays in consumers’ homes, we have created a platform dedicated to the consumer electronics market.

In this edition, we provide an overview of the Annual Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held in January 2023 with a footprint that was 70% larger than the 2022 Show which was largely impacted by Covid restrictions.

There were two key takeaways from the 2023 Show – connectivity and sustainability. Let’s start with connectivity.

The smart home is expected to become less fragmented and more unified with the roll-out of the Matter open-source industry standard. It promises reliable and secure connectivity while ensuring any smart devices will work seamlessly together, regardless of the chosen smart home control platform. It is backed by some of the world’s largest technology companies including Amazon, Apple, Google, LG and Samsung – just to name a few.

Matter is still in its infancy in Australia and New Zealand, but compatibility with more products is expected to ramp up in 2023, breaking down previous barriers to entry and opening up partnerships between different categories from TV and lighting to cooking appliances and air conditioning.

As for sustainability, this continues to be one of the most talked about topics not only in our industry but across various industries. For many, CES 2023 was used as a platform to demonstrate the steps being taken to make a positive green impact and ultimately achieve carbon neutrality. At some booths, sustainability was given precedence over new product innovations, which was a rare sight even a couple of years ago.

Our CES report highlights the key product announcements from the major brands including new TVs, soundbars, cameras, headphones, laptops, security products and mobile accessories, as well as ovens, refrigerators and vacuum cleaners. We also take a look at the weird and whacky gadgets that caught our attention.

Editor Emily Bencic

28, 29

24, 25

6, 7

16, 17

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There were two key takeaways from the 2023 Show –connectivity and sustainability.”

CES 2023 was the great reconnection and rocked by every measure.”

CTA president and CEO, Gary Shapiro

CES RETURNS TO FULL-SCALE IN-PERSON EVENT IN 2023

The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 gathered over 115,000 industry professionals at the Las Vegas Convention Center and surrounds – the largest audited global technology event since early 2020.

WITH OVER 3,200 exhibitors including 1,000 start-ups, CES 2023 showcased the next era of innovation from transport and mobility to digital health, sustainability, metaverse and beyond. Consumer Technology Association (CTA), organisers of CES, president and CEO, Gary Shapiro said, “CES 2023 was the great reconnection and rocked by every measure – from attendance to the keynote stage to press conferences and product debuts on the exhibit floor – showing the entire world that in-person events are back. The innovation unveiled will drive economic growth and change in meaningful ways to improve our lives and create a better future for the next generation.”

Appliance Retailer’s Emily Bencic was on the ground in Las Vegas and shares her top picks from the show floor.

Fast facts:

2.2M

3,200

115,000

4,800

60%

net square feet of exhibits (70% larger than CES 2022) exhibitors including 1,000 new exhibitors plus, attendees including over 40,000 international attendees from more than 140 countries approximately, global media from 69 countries of Fortune 500 companies represented

Samsung announces latest QLED 8K and 4K TV line-up

Samsung’s latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs are powered by Samsung’s advanced Neural Quantum Processor for 14-bit processing and AI upscaling, while the new Auto HDR Remastering uses AI deep learning technology.

THE MICRO LED line-up offers new models ranging from 50- to 140inch, delivering Quantum Dot technology developed for Samsung’s Neo QLEDs. In its Lifestyle TV category, Samsung is introducing The Premiere 8K ultra-short throw laser projector delivering a maximum screen size of 150-inches. The latest Freestyle portable projector incorporates a new Smart Edge Blending feature to use two devices simultaneously and watch content in a 21:9 configuration. A new and improved Samsung Art Store on The Frame brings in features such as previews at-a-glance and extended content offerings. Also new is a metal bezel option and the optional auto rotating wall mount and stand designed for The Frame and Neo QLED TVs.

Samsung to launch Bespoke cooking range

Samsung is expanding its Bespoke Home appliance range by introducing premium cooking products including the Bespoke Induction Cooktop, Bespoke Microwave and Bespoke AI Oven, scheduled to launch in Australia in mid-2023.

SAMSUNG IS also expanding its Bespoke refrigerator range, adding a top mount model featuring a flat, minimalist design with a customisable front panel available in glass and cotta metal finishes. The Bespoke top mount refrigerator features Samsung’s Optimal Fresh Zone+, Active Fresh Filter and SmartThings Energy’s AI energy mode.

Samsung Infinite REFRIGERATION delivers ultra-premium product

Samsung will launch an ultrapremium built-in refrigerator, the Samsung Infinite Refrigerator, in Q2 2023. The fridge and freezer offer a combined capacity of 805 litres, and the wine cellar can store up to 101 bottles.

KNOWN AS Infinite Design, the exterior is made from premium aluminium for dentand scratch-resistance, the Auto Open Door is opened with a simple touch and the Dual Auto Ice Maker offers a choice of whisky ball ice or cubed ice. The wine cellar features a triple temperature zone, UV Protect door and is compatible with the SmartThings Smart Wine Storage wine management feature.

Using an internal camera and AI, the Bespoke AI Oven’s Sense Inside feature can recommend cooking settings by recognising different dishes and ingredients.

The ultra-premium Samsung Infinite Refrigerator comes with a fridge, freezer and wine cabinet.

Samsung’s latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs are powered by Samsung’s advanced Neural Quantum Processor for 14-bit processing and AI upscaling.

Hisense expands Laser and Mini LED TV offering

Hisense is introducing three new models to its Laser TV offering including the latest iteration of its L9H TriChroma Laser TV, as well as the PL1H and PX1H Laser Cinema.

HISENSE’S 2023 L9H TriChroma Laser TV series, available in 100- and 120-inch, boasts 4K picture quality, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos Audio and TriChroma X-Fusion Laser Light technology. Paired with Hisense’s latest Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) screen, the Laser TV boasts 3,000 lumens for increased brightness.

The single laser PL1H variable short-throw Laser Cinema console available now has a variable screen size between 80-and 120-inch, while the PX1H offers a larger screen size range of between 90- and 130-inch. It features 4K picture quality, TriChroma X-Fusion Laser Light, Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos Audio.

Mini LED technology is being rolled out across the full Hisense ULED range for 2023, with new Mini LED X technology incorporated into the flagship models including the 85-inch model which achieves 2,500+ nits of brightness with 5,000+ dimming zones.

The wider Hisense ULED range for 2023 incorporates IMAX Enhanced certification, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ adaptive viewing and AI Sports Mode. VIDAA U7 has new inclusions such as Binge, Apple TV+, Britbox, and 9Now.

Mini LED X technology is described as Hisense’s most detailed display to date with the 85-inch model delivering 20,000 backlights to achieve 2,500+ nits of brightness with 5,000+ dimming zones.

Hisense demonstrated the capabilities of its ConnectLife smart home ecosystem on its booth.

Hisense to expand ConnectLife smart home ecosystem

Hisense is extending its smart home ecosystem, ConnectLife across its entire home appliance range for 2023. The ConnectLife app, currently compatible with Hisense air conditioning products, will become available on new Hisense appliances set to launch throughout 2023.

Hisense will announce a range of new features throughout the year that make everyday tasks easier, including Holiday Mode. Once perishables have been removed from the fridge, this feature allows users to save energy by powering the fridge section down to standby mode, while maintaining freezer function. Hisense’s Super Cool or Super Freeze modes will also be available to activate directly through the ConnectLife app. The Super Cool and Super Freeze modes quickly drop the temperature of the fridge or freezer for six hours.

LEFT TO RIGHT: The OLED T Transparent Screen can be placed virtually anywhere, even in the middle of the living room or in front of a window • LG put a spotlight on its commitment to sustainability, showcasing its ESG vision and latest innovations in an exhibit called the Better Life for All zone • LG’s new CordZero A9 Kompressor with Steam Power Mop is the company’s first cordless stick vacuum cleaner to offer steam mopping functionality. • LG displayed its MoodUp refrigerators with colourchanging LED door panels. • The LG OLED Wave greets visitors as they enter the LG booth, consisting of 260 55-inch OLED screens curved in and curved out that show the flexibility and picture quality of OLED. • LG is expanding its gram laptop range with the addition of the LG gram Ultraslim and LG gram Style, as well as new gram 17, 16, 15 and 14 laptops. • LG’s 97inch LG SIGNATURE OLED M is the world’s first consumer TV with Zero Connect technology, a wireless solution capable of real-time video and audio transmission at up to 4K 120Hz.

LG releases first stick vac with steam mop

LG is introducing its new CordZero A9 Kompressor with Steam Power Mop, its first cordless stick vacuum cleaner to offer steam mopping functionality.

THE CORDZERO A9 Kompressor comes with the All-in-One Tower docking station to store, recharge and automatically empty the vacuum. With the Steam Power Mop nozzle, wet and steam mopping functionality cleans surfaces without detergent. The nozzle comes with dual sensors to prevent overheating and an automatic water supply system that keeps the mop pads wet.

that sends video and audio signals wirelessly to the screen.

LG strengthens gram laptop range

The expanded LG gram line-up is headlined by the new LG gram Ultraslim, the thinnest LG gram model yet, weighing 998 grams and measuring 10.99mm in depth when closed.

THE ULTRASLIM features a 15.6-inch OLED display with Anti-Glare Low Reflection (AGLR) coating and Intel’s 13th Gen Raptor Lake Chip. LG gram Style laptops sport a glass design that moves and changes the colour depending on the light and angle, as well as a ‘hidden’ haptic touchpad with soft LED backlighting. Each gram Style laptop has a 16:10 OLED AGLR display with a high refresh rate. This year’s gram line-up also features new gram 17, 16, 15 and 14 laptops each weighing less than 1.45 kilograms and boasting up to 20 hours of video playback.

LG showcases worldfirst wireless OLED TV

LG debuted its 97-inch LG SIGNATURE OLED M (model M3), the world’s first consumer TV with Zero Connect technology, a wireless solution capable of realtime video and audio transmission at up to 4K 120Hz.

THE M3 comes with a separate Zero Connect box, which can be placed away from the TV, to send video and audio signals wirelessly to the screen.

Another new addition to the LG OLED range is the OLED T Transparent Screen that can be placed virtually anywhere, even in the middle of the living room or in front of a window. In black mode, the TV provides an OLED viewing environment and transparent gallery mode showcases art. The new Z3, G3 and C3 OLED evo series incorporates the new Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen6.

The [LG SIGNATURE OLED M] M3 comes with a separate Zero Connect box, which can be placed away from the TV,

TCL CONFIRMS LOCAL TV STRATEGY WITH NEW QLED AND MINI LED MODELS

In 2023, TCL TVs are set to gain their greatest enhancements to date, with a broader range of QLED models available and the company’s largest Mini LED TV.

TCL’S C Series QLED TVs feature Quantum Dot technology and ultrawide colour gamut, as well as varying levels of new HighBright displays that increase colour volume and brightness. The C Series delivers more dimming zones with Full Array Pro Local Dimming, IMAX Enhanced certification, TCL’s proprietary AIPQ Engine technology and increased refresh rates.

The new TCL C Series will deliver more dimming zones with Full Array Pro Local Dimming, IMAX Enhanced certification for the first time, TCL’s proprietary AIPQ Engine technology and increased refresh rates.

Mini LED TVs were front and centre on the TCL stand and have been driving success for TCL Australia in the TV category.

TCL launched its largest Mini LED TV, a 98-inch model, at CES.

“This year, we’re adding larger screen sizes in Mini LED with an expected local launch around May 2023. The new 98-inch size will complement other sizes in the range including 55-, 65-, 75- and 85-inch. We’ve increased the brightness levels and local dimming zones on this year’s range too. For example, the 98inch Mini LED TV offers 2,000+ nits and 2,300+ local dimming zones,” TCL general manager of sales, Jason Carrick said.

“Our C7 Series has been enhanced and now incorporates Full Array Local Dimming and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) 144Hz. Our C6 Series by comparison is our first step into QLED with a 60Hz native panel. However, with DLG (Dual Line Gate) technology, users can plug in a PlayStation 5 console with VRR 120Hz, for example, and the TV will accept the feed and add a 2K resolution for VRR 120Hz. Our P Series will remain unchanged from 2022 and continue to provide 4K Google TV.”

The Ultra Slim Mini LED with OD Zero technology uses smaller, higher-quality Mini LED lighting to produce thinner and brighter TVs.

PANASONIC GROUP FOCUSES ON GREEN IMPACT CITY INITIATIVE

Panasonic Group created an exhibition concept called Green Impact City on its booth to show how people’s lives change through technologies and products that help solve environmental problems.

THE COMPANY’S booth used minimal building and flooring materials and recycled materials to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. Backboards made of bamboo and sustainable building material were used as a backdrop for the products exhibited in each area.

Panasonic’s booth used minimal building and flooring materials and a large amount of recycled materials to significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

Under the banner of its long-term environmental vision, Panasonic Green Impact (PGI), the company is engaged in various activities towards reducing CO2 emissions from its own operations to virtually net-zero by 2030 and to contribute to a total of 300 million tonnes or more in avoided emissions by 2050, about 1% of the current total global emissions of 33 billion tonnes.

Panasonic unveils latest LUMIX S series

Panasonic’s new LUMIX S5IIX and S5II hybrid full-frame mirrorless cameras offer a new 24.2MP sensor and new processor born from the Panasonic and LEICA L2 Technology alliance.

THIS MAKES Phase Hybrid AF and Active IS for reinforced command over subject tracking and stabilisation possible. Other features include unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording, full-sensor video shooting and Real Time LUT for immediate colour grading without postproduction.

The LUMIX S5IIX is the first fullframe mirrorless camera to record directly to an external SSD via USB-C. Photographers will also benefit from the inclusion of advanced video codecs such as All-Intra and ProRes.

The LUMIX S5IIX sports a LUMIXfirst monochromatic all-black look, while the S5II features the signature LUMIX design with red and white accents. The S5IIX sets itself apart from the S5II with pre-installed pro-level video features including HDMI RAW video data output, USB-SSD, ALL-Intra and ProRes recording, as well as wireless and wired IP streaming.

Panasonic’s new LUMIX S5IIX and S5II hybrid full-frame mirrorless cameras offer a new 24.2MP sensor and new processor born from the Panasonic and LEICA L2 Technology alliance.

The Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX and S5II made their debut at the company’s press conference ahead of the official opening of CES.

The

Panasonic Green Impact House

allows a way of living which maintains people’s physical and mental health, while building holistic wellbeing for people, society and the planet.

SONY MOVES FORWARD WITH SUSTAINABILITY AND VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES

Under the theme ‘Moving People Forward’, Sony’s booth was designed to show how the company is expanding the possibilities of entertainment through various technologies and initiatives relating to the metaverse and mobility.

AS PART of its environmental efforts, some booth panels were made of original blended material – an environmentally conscious paper material constructed from bamboo, sugar cane, and post-consumer recycled paper developed by Sony. To further reduce waste materials, Sony reused curtains from other events and rental materials.

On its booth, Sony exhibited PlayStation VR2 (PS VR2), the next generation virtual reality headset for PlayStation 5 (PS5). PS VR2 has some features realised through PS VR2 Sense Technology, such as headset feedback, eye tracking, 3D audio and adaptive triggers, as well as haptic feedback from

PS VR2 Sense Controller. Sony also showcased a range of image production solutions, including digital cinema cameras such as Venic 2, the full-frame mirrorless camera Alpha series, the VlogCam series, the professional drone Airpeak, Xperia smartphones and the Creators’ Cloud.

Sony also previewed its proof of concept with English Premier League football club Manchester City for online fan engagement combining physical and virtual worlds for sports fans. Visitors could experience metaverse content as if they were in the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s home, reproduced in a virtual space.

Another highlight of the Sony booth was ‘Star Sphere’ – a project to bring space closer to all and discover the ‘space perspectives’ to provide an

Sony exhibited PlayStation VR2 (PS VR2), the next generation virtual reality headset for PlayStation 5 (PS5) featuring headset feedback, eye tracking, 3D audio, adaptive triggers, and haptic feedback.

opportunity to think about the global environment and social issues. On January 3 2023, a remote controllable nano-satellite ‘eye’ equipped with a camera capable of shooting from space was launched.

Sony exhibited the ‘Space Shooting Lab’, an experimental simulator that proposes a space for experiential photography from space that Star Sphere plans to offer in the future, and a mock-up of a nanosatellite equipped with Sony camera equipment.

Under the theme ‘Moving People Forward’, Sony’s booth was designed to show how the company is expanding the possibilities of entertainment through various technologies and initiatives.

As part of its environmental efforts, some booth panels were made of original blended material developed by Sony.

Sony previewed its proof of concept with English Premier League football club Manchester City for next generation online fan communities and engagement.

OUT AND ABOUT AT CES 2023

CES RETURNS GALLERY

FAR LEFT: Cameron Trainer and Terry Smart (JB Hi-Fi Group) LEFT: Chris Mayer, Gideon Liu and Kevin King (Hisense) BOTTOM: Michael Jackson (Narta), Chris Murphy (Bing Lee), Scott Govenlock (Videopro) and Christopher Allum (Narta) with Kevin Lim (Bing Lee), John Elsdon (BSR Group), Scott Whitney (Retravision) and Damien Kenny (JB Hi-Fi Group)

TOP: Marcus Fry and Andrew Dunstan (Harman) BOTTOM LEFT: Richard Beaini (Harvey Norman), Milan Amarsi (Harvey Norman) and Jason Carrick (TCL) BOTTOM RIGHT: Michael Gee (Media Merchants) with the Narta executive team Darren Spencer, Michael Jackson, Christopher Allum and Tony Carrier

JBL delivers new advanced soundbars

The flagship JBL Bar 1300X uses six up-firing drivers and Harman’s unique MultiBeam technology to create an immersive audio experience leveraging Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D surround sound.

THE DETACHABLE wireless surround speakers and 12-inch wireless subwoofer promise next level audio. Each JBL Bar features Harman’s new PureVoice technology and can be connected to online music services via Wi-Fi with compatible speakers. The new JBL One app offers fully customisable EQ settings to personalise the listening experience. The range can be linked with a voice assistant-enabled device and comes with AirPlay 2, Alexa MRM and Chromecast built-in.

JBL releases JBL Go 3 and Clip 4 Eco-editions

JBL is extending its Eco-Edition portfolio, adding two of its most popular portable Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Go 3 Eco and JBL Clip 4 Eco available in a new eco-friendly design.

ECO-EDITIONS USE 90% PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic for the construction and 100% recycled fabric on the speaker grille. The portable speakers will come in packaging made from FSC-certified paper with biodegradable soy ink and free of plastic.

The pocket-size JBL Go 3 Eco provides five hours of playtime, while the compact JBL Clip 4 Eco delivers 10 hours of playtime. Both speakers are waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating and incorporate Bluetooth 5.1.

JBL launches world-first smart charging case

JBL announced its latest true wireless earbuds, the JBL Tour Pro 2, offering the world’s first smart charging case, sporting a 1.45-inch LED touch display.

THE DISPLAY can be used to manage music, receive calls, messages and social media notifications. The six-microphone design promises crystal clear audio, while ANC blocks out any unwanted noise. The 10mm dynamic drivers powered by JBL Pro sound are complemented by JBL Spatial Sound technology. The earbuds are IPX5 water resistant and provide four hours of battery from just 15 minutes of charge.

The JBL Tour One M2 over-ear headphones combine JBL’s hybrid True Adaptive ANC with JBL pro-tuned drivers. Offering up to 50 hours of playtime, fast charge delivers five hours of JBL Pro Sound after just 10 minutes of charge.

TOP: The JBL Bar 1300X uses six up-firing drivers and Harman’s unique MultiBeam technology to create an immersive audio experience. BOTTOM LEFT: In addition to the world’s first smart charging case, the JBL Tour Pro 2 true wireless earbuds offer up to 40 hours of playtime, IPX5 water resistant rating, JBL Spatial Sound technology and more. BOTTOM

RIGHT: The JBL Go 3 Eco and JBL Clip 4 Eco portable speakers will come in JBL’s most eco-friendly packaging made from FSC-certified paper with biodegradable soy ink and free of plastic.

Each JBL Bar features Harman’s new PureVoice technology which optimises voice clarity even when loud sound effects take over.

To deliver the 3D image effect, ASUS uses lenticular-based autostereoscopic technology – a display method that shows the viewer a different set of pixels to the left and right eye simultaneously.

ASUS INTRODUCES FIRST 3D OLED LAPTOPS

ASUS has unveiled new 3D viewing technology, Spatial Vision technology, making it possible to experience 3D vision on selected laptops without the need for special glasses or a VR headset.

THE TECHNOLOGY, called autostereoscopic 3D (naked-eye 3D), will become available on selected ASUS creator laptops equipped with OLED displays. The world’s first 3D OLED laptops launched at CES were the ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED and Vivobook Pro 16 3D OLED aimed at designers, content creators, architects and other creative professionals, as well as those seeking high-end laptop entertainment such as gamers or movie buffs. To deliver the 3D image effect, ASUS uses lenticular-based autostereoscopic technology – a display method that shows the viewer a different set of pixels to the left and right eye simultaneously.

In addition to Spatial Vision technology, the ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED features 13th Gen Intel Core i9 HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics.

Sennheiser sets new standard in consumer hearing solutions

Sennheiser is helping people understand conversations more clearly in noisy environments with its latest hearing solutions product, the Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus.

UTILISING SOPHISTICATED Sonova chip technology, conversations and calls are enhanced thanks to the Sennheiser Automatic Scene Detection feature, which analyses the noise level of the environment and matches the speech enhancement level accordingly.

Using the Conversation Clear Plus app, dedicated settings for different listening scenarios help personalise the audio experience. The ‘Relax’ listening scenario customises the amount of background noise that is blocked, while the ‘Communication’ and ‘Streaming’ scenarios automatically adjust settings for the best performance and clarity during conversations and while streaming content, respectively.

Sennheiser is also expanding its IE range with the new IE 200 designed to bring a pure listening experience to a broader audience with quality and features usually reserved for top-of-theline devices. In addition to a unique dual-tuning feature, the included ear tips can be mounted in one of two positions. Viscoelastic foam and silicone ear adapters in multiple sizes block ambient distractions while maximising low-end response. A revised, braided cable reduces handling noise, and terminates to a 3.5mm stereo plug and MMCX connectors.

TOP: Together with Active Noise Cancellation, Conversation Clear Plus blocks distracting noises and improves clarity for every level of background noise. BOTTOM: The new IE 200 are designed to bring a pure listening experience to a broader audience with quality and features usually reserved for top-of-the-line devices.

Anker unveils latest innovations in floorcare, security and home entertainment

Anker Innovations has showcased the new Eufy Clean X9 Pro robotic vacuum cleaner with auto-clean station. Featuring a twinturbo powered MopMaster system, the X9 Pro delivers constant dynamic pressure and highspeed rotational mopping.

OFFERING 5,500 Pa suction power with its floating main brush to pick up dust and debris on different surfaces, the auto-lift mopping system lifts mop pads to avoid carpets and clean surfaces. AI.Map technology 3.0 enables multi-floor mapping in real-time, selective room cleaning and highlights obstacles. The auto-cleaning station cleans and dries the mop pads for a hands-off solution.

In security, Eufy unveiled the Smart Wireless Security System engineered to deliver Wi-Fi coverage of up 464 square metres with MultiBridge Wi-Fi technology. A 1TB storage drive is included for 24/7 continuous recordings for up to 30 days. Local storage can be expanded up to 8TB.

The Eufy Security Wall Light Cam is a two-in-one wall light and camera featuring full 2K HD wide view and colour night vision. Motion activated lighting and camera are supported by two-way audio and 105dB siren. A solar version comes with an IP65 rating and offers a full battery from just two hours of daily sun.

Anker also introduced the new Nebula Capsule 3 Laser, small enough to fit in a hand. The 1080p HD display with 300 ISO lumens claims to be 1.8 times brighter than a traditional LED. AndroidTV 11.0 OS is supported by an 8W built-in speaker with Dolby source decoding.

The Eufy Security Wall Light Cam is a two-in-one wall light and camera featuring full 2K HD wide view and colour night vision.

The Nebula Capsule 3 Laser can be set up in seconds thanks to auto focus and auto keystones, and the built-in battery provides 2.5 hours of movie playtime.

The Eufy Clean X9 Pro robotic vacuum cleaner offers ultra-strong 5,500 Pa suction power, an auto-lift mopping system to avoid carpets and AI.Map technology 3.0 for mapping in real-time.

The Eufy Security Wall Light Cam is also available in a solar version with two hours of daily sun providing a full battery and an IP65 weather resistant rating.

Belkin transitions mobile products to PCR plastic

Belkin’s most popular wireless chargers, power banks, wall chargers and car chargers will receive updated product housing materials that consist of 73% to 75% post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR) and plastic-free packaging.

THE PRODUCT transition, rolling out through 2023, will save 7,000 metric tons of carbon emissions and reduce CO2-eq emissions for these products by 67%. PCR takes plastic waste and repurposes it to create new products. It utilises plastic destined for landfill, giving it new life and reducing dependence on virgin plastics. The Life Cycle Assessment conducted by Belkin shows that utilising PCR material has a significant reduction in environmental impact.

The products include the Belkin Magnetic Car Vent Mount, BOOST CHARGE USB-C PD 3.0 PPS Wall Charger 25W, BOOST CHARGE Dual USB-C PD Wall Charger 40W, BOOST CHARGE PRO 4-Port GaN Charger 108W, BOOST CHARGE PRO Dual USB-C GaN Wall Charger with PPS 45W and BOOST CHARGE PRO Dual USB-C GaN Wall Charger with PPS 65W. From an aesthetic, quality and engineering perspective, there will be little difference between existing Belkin products and Belkin PCR products. The PCR products will have clear callouts on the packaging and product pages online such as: ‘Made with Recycled Plastic Products’ and ‘100% Plastic Free Packaging’.

TOP SET: The Belkin BOOST CHARGE USB-C PD 3.0 PPS Wall Charger 25W made of plastic (left) versus PCR (right). BOTTOM SET: The Belkin BOOST CHARGE PRO 4-Port GaN Charger 108W made of plastic (left) versus PCR (right).

Razer Blade gaming laptop line-up includes its largest ever display

The 2023 line-up of the Razer Blade gaming laptops brings larger 16:10 ratio displays in 16- and 18-inch options along with high end specs. Both models come with the latest 13th gen Intel Core i9 HX chipset, NVIDIA’s next-generation RTX 40 series GPUs and upgradeable DDR5 5600MHz RAM.

laptops

THE RAZER Blade 16 includes a HDR-capable dual-mode Mini-LED display capable of 1,000 nits peak brightness with a 3ms response time. Creator mode enables a sharp UHD+ native resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, while Gamer mode enables a 240Hz refresh rate in the native FHD+. The Razer Blade 18 is not just Razer’s largest ever gaming laptop but also its most powerful. The 18-inch QHD+ display supports a 240Hz refresh rate while providing accurate colour representation and sharp resolution. The design of the laptop is the usual sleek Razer design which offers desktop performance thanks to that 13th Gen Intel Core i9 chipset and DDR5 RAM alongside a 5MP webcam, a THX spatial audio six speaker array, a comprehensive port selection and includes upgradeable components.

The Razer Blade 16 includes a HDR-capable dual-mode Mini-LED display capable of 1,000 nits peak brightness with a 3ms response time.

The 2023 line-up of the Razer Blade gaming

brings larger 16:10 ratio displays in 16- and 18-inch options along with high end specs.

Online tech magazine EFTM author, Scott Plowman

HTC announces lightweight and compact Vive XR Elite headset

HTC has announced its next Vive headset with a versatile, compact, lightweight mixed-reality headset, the Vive XR Elite. The HTC Vive XR is a standalone unit, with both Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR) capabilities. HTC is positioning the headset for use in gaming,

The HTC Vive XR Elite includes 4K resolution displays – 2K per eye – with 110-degree field of view and 90Hz refresh rate.

THE HEADSET itself weighs 625 grams including the battery which will last up to two hours. The Vive XR Elite includes 4K resolution displays – 2K per eye – with 110-degree field of view and 90Hz refresh rate. There are dual microphones and embedded speakers on board with a volume button.

The headset includes adjustable lenses for people who wear glasses, with an externally adjustable IPD slider with a range of 54mm to 73mm available to fine-tune the view and has a magnetically attached front gasket for easy cleaning. There’s a full colour RGB camera for pass-through to enable the MR functionality as well as four wide field of view cameras with 6DoF support for spatial accuracy and a depth sensor. The Vive XR Elite has physical controllers, but also supports hand tracking capability with additional support for the Vive Wrist Tracker.

The headset includes adjustable lenses for people who wear glasses, with an externally adjustable IPD slider with a range of 54mm to 73mm available to finetune the view.

Online tech magazine EFTM author, Daniel Tyson

Acer updates Aspire and Swift notebooks

The new Acer Aspire 5 series notebooks are powered by the latest 13th Gen Intel Core processors and up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 GPUs.

AVAILABLE IN 17-, 15- and 14-inch display sizes, the 15-inch model offers QHD resolution and 16:9 aspect ratio, while the 14-inch version features a FHD resolution at 16:10 aspect ratio. The Aspire 5 series delivers a 1080p FHD webcam and digital microphones with Acer’s Temporal Noise Reduction (TNR) technology and Acer PurifiedVoice included.

The Aspire 3 series will also be available in 17-, 15- and 14-inch display sizes at 1080p resolution with Acer’s BlueLightShield technology to help minimise eye strain and new Intel Core i3-N series processors. Acer has improved thermal performance with a 40% increase to the fan surface area. The laptops weigh 1.6kg and feature a slim 18.9mm profile in a metal chassis.

Online tech magazine EFTM author, Daniel Tyson

The new Swift series of notebooks includes the new Acer Swift Go 16 and Swift Go 14 with OLED displays, as well as the Acer Swift X 14 featuring NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs.

The new Swift series of notebooks includes the new Acer Swift Go 16 and Swift Go 14 with OLED displays, as well as the Acer Swift X 14 featuring NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs. The Acer Swift Go 14 has a 14-inch 2.8K display and the Swift Go 16 has a 16-inch 3.2K panel, both set in 16:10 aspect ratio with TÜV Rheinland Eyesafe display certification. Both models are housed in a slim 14.9mm aluminum unibody chassis weighing less than 1.4kg.

Designed for both amateur and professional creators, the Acer Swift X 14 includes the latest 13th Gen Intel Core H-series processors and options for up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs. The Swift X 14 features a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display with 120Hz frame refresh rate and support for 100% DCI-P3 colour range.

The new Acer Swift 14 features a thin and light CNC-machined unibody chassis available in Mist Green or Steam Blue coloured aerospace-grade aluminium. It is Intel EVO certified and powered by up to 13th Gen Intel Core H-series. As with the Swift X 14, the Swift 14 features a 1440p QHD webcam with TNR technology, Acer PurifiedVoice and dual speakers enhanced with DTS Audio. There is also an integrated fingerprint reader.

The Acer Swift X 14 features a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display with 120Hz frame refresh rate and support for 100% DCI-P3 colour range.

The Yoga Book 9i is the first full size dual screen OLED laptop built on the Intel Evo platform. It comes with a folio stand and detachable Bluetooth keyboard with support for the Lenovo-designed Smart Pen stylus.

Lenovo revamps Yoga range and introduces new tablets

Online tech magazine EFTM author, Daniel Tyson

Lenovo has unveiled its latest Yoga range offering a new suite of devices, Smart Paper tablet with E-Ink touch display and Tab Extreme Android tablet.

THE NEW Yoga Book 9i is the first full size dual screen OLED laptop built on the Intel Evo platform. Powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-U15 processor, up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and with a Gen 4 PCIe SSD up to 1TB, the Yoga Book 9i includes dual 13.3-inch 2.8K resolution touch displays that are Dolby Vision compatible in 16:10 aspect ratio with support for multi-touch gestures. The laptop includes a 360-degree rotating soundbar and comes with a folio stand and detachable Bluetooth keyboard with support for the Lenovo-designed Smart Pen stylus.

The new Yoga AIO 9i features a 31.5-inch three-side borderless, 4K resolution display. The metallic hinge on the stand incorporates a built-in wireless smartphone charger. Powered by the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700H or i9-13900H processors and using NVIDIA GeForce Next-Gen Laptop GPU the setup can be paired with up to 32GB of LPDDR5 memory and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The built-in 5MP IR camera includes a front-facing dual microphone array for video conferencing, and Harman Kardon tuned speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial audio support.

The Lenovo Smart Paper with E-Ink display provides lightweight, all-metal casing and large 10.3-inch anti-glare display.

The new Yoga Slim 6i delivers a 14-inch 16:10 aspect ratio OLED display with Dolby Vision and optional touch support. Powered by the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1240P or i7-1280P processors, it comes with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB M.2 PCIe internal storage. Lenovo is also offering an improved video conferencing experience with noise cancelling and background blur features.

The refreshed Yoga 6 offers the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors with options for either the Ryzen 5 7530U or Ryzen 7 7730U processors paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR4 memory and up to 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD with AMD Radeon Graphics. The Yoga 6 offers a Full HD resolution Windows Hello compatible webcam with privacy shutter.

The new Lenovo Smart Paper with E-Ink display provides lightweight, all-metal casing and large 10.3-inch anti-glare E-Ink touch display with support for an active battery-less stylus.

The included stylus sits in a recessed tray on the side and never needs to be charged. It features a felt tip with 23ms latency and supports up to nine pen settings, ranging from ballpoint pen, pencil (both mechanical and wooden), as well as markers and even calligraphy.

The Lenovo Tab Extreme offers a premium tablet experience featuring a 14.5-inch 3K resolution OLED display with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, 120Hz refresh rate and DCI-P3 colour gamut. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 Octa-core processor and paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of onboard storage, there’s also a microSD card slot for expanding storage. The tablet incorporates Lenovo Premium Audio System with Octa JBL speakers and Dolby Atmos.

The new Yoga AIO 9i features a 31.5-inch three-side borderless, 4K resolution display. The metallic hinge on the stand incorporates a built-in wireless smartphone charger.

The Lenovo Tab Extreme features a 14.5-inch 3K resolution OLED display with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, 120Hz refresh rate and DCI-P3 colour gamut.

The new HP Dragonfly Pro range includes both a Windows and Chrome OS machine, both sharing similar hardware features.

HP Dragonfly

G4 is aimed at business customers with the ability to use two cameras simultaneously. It features an OLED display, runs on the latest Intel Core processors and weighs less than 1kg.

HP unveils new Dragonfly, Omen and Elite Series devices

The new HP Dragonfly Pro range includes both a Windows and Chrome OS machine, both sharing similar hardware features. The Windows model offers a FHD+ 1920×1200 resolution at 400 nits, while the Chromebook model delivers 2560×1600 resolution at 1200 nits.

HP WILL offer the HP Dragonfly Pro with an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD, while the HP Dragonfly Chromebook is Intel Evo verified and will include a 13th Gen Intel processor with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB PCIe NVME SSD. It is the first Chromebook to feature four USB-C Thunderbolt ports.

HP Dragonfly G4, aimed at business customers, weighs less than 1kg, has two cameras that can be used simultaneously and an OLED display which runs on the latest Intel Core processor. The HP Elitebook 1040 G10 and Elite 360 1040 G10 run on up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processors with optional vPro and include up to 32GB of LPDDR5 memory and up to 2TB of storage. Both the HP Dragonfly and Elite 1000 Series PCs contain 90% recycled magnesium in the enclosure case.

The new HP G5 monitor range includes both flat and curved displays covering 99% sRGB colour accuracy. The range includes a 21.5-inch monitor at FHD resolution, a 23.8-inch display in FHD and QHD resolution, a 27-inch in FHD, QHD and 4K resolution, a 31.5-inch at 4K and the HP E45c G5, the world’s first 45-inch super ultrawide dual QHD curved monitor replacing two 24-inch QHD monitors with a 44.5inch diagonal monitor. All monitors feature 90% recycled and renewable materials.

HP Gaming is also getting an update with the HP Omen 17 laptop featuring the latest Intel Core i913900HX processor and latest NVIDIA Mobile GPUs. The chassis features three-sided venting and five-way airflow with Omen Tempest Cooling technology to prevent overheating. The 17-inch QHD resolution display with a 240Hz refresh rate and an optical mechanical keyboard claims to be 25 times faster than traditional keys.

The HP E45c G5 is the world’s first 45inch super ultrawide dual QHD curved monitor replacing two 24-inch QHD monitors with a 44.5-inch diagonal monitor.less than 1kg.

All monitors in the [HP G5] series feature 90% recycled and renewable materials, like coffee grounds and recycled aluminium.

Online tech magazine EFTM author, Daniel Tyson

THE WEIRD, WHACKY AND WONDERFUL GADGETS OF CES 2023

Wearable wear a+ personal purifier protects against airborne allergens

Smart Pen Brings Handwriting Into The Digital AGE USING a series of CAMERAS TO TRACK MOVEMENTS

The Nuwa Pen uses a series of cameras to trace movements and precisely capture handwriting. Smart pens have existed for years, but they’ve typically required people to write on a specific type of paper or tablet. The cameras and pressure sensors mean people can write on any surface and obtain an instant digital copy. It uses standard D1 ink and has a battery life of two hours with a full charge reached in just 15 minutes. Third-party app integrations allow users to generate to-do lists, calendar events and contacts.

The Respiray Wear A+ is a wearable device that protects people from airborne allergen particles by taking in air from underneath, filtering it and covering the face with new clean, breathable air. Studies have shown that the device is capable of filtering out 99.9% of allergen particles. It’s useful against all types of airborne allergens including pollen, dust and mould. It comes with two filters that last around six months each with replacement filters available for purchase. Clinical trials have deemed that the device is effective as a drug-free treatment for airborne allergies.

Learn to play piano with LED lights

Piano LED is a French tech start-up modernising the way people learn piano. A plug-and-play box and LED light strip are controlled through Wi-Fi and adaptable to all piano lengths. Piano LED Plus can integrate with Synthesia software to show how well the person played and keep track of their progress. A display shows which keys to press next and the best finger to play with. There are options to simply light up the next key to press, light the keys up with a specific colour for each hand, or light up in the event an incorrect key has been pressed.

Online tech magazine EFTM gaming editor and tech writer, John Abood

The cameras and pressure sensors mean people can write on any surface and obtain an instant digital copy.

skyted Sound absorbing face mask

Skyted is a sound absorbing face mask that ensures nobody in your vicinity can hear your conversation. The mask uses an acoustic absorber that reduces voice vibrations by 80%, coupled with a pair of bone conductor microphones to allow a completely private conversation. While it’s still a prototype, EFTM’s John Abood received a demonstration and described the background noise suppression as exceptional. In the middle of CES, with blaring speakers and overlapping conversations, he was able to hear the person with the microphone at regular speaking volumes and whispering with only a faint echo of background noise.

Smart dog collar tracks heart health, RESPIRATORY RATE, APPETITE AND LOCATION

Invoxia’s new Smart Dog Collar is designed to constantly monitor a dog’s heart and respiratory rate to establish base lines and preventatively monitor for illness with medical grade accuracy. In addition to heart and respiratory scanning during sleep, the collar monitors appetite and activity, offers real-time GPS tracking, location history and escape alerts, and lost mode in the event the dog is lost, runs away or is stolen. The collar is scheduled to launch this year on a subscription model to cover the cost of live GPS tracking.

Headband fights fatigue behind the wheel

Oraigo is an Italian tech start-up looking to address the problem of fatigue behind the wheel at a consumer and fleet level with a headband that monitors fatigue and keeps the driver alert on the road. The device, called AiGo, works by monitoring EEG (electrical activity in the brain) data and sending it to the accompanying mobile app through Bluetooth. The data is processed and used to detect microsleeps. If a microsleep is about to occur, the AiGo will vibrate and alert the driver. The app will make noise and ping the phone with notifications for a visual element.

...the collar monitors appetite and activity, offers real-time GPS tracking, location history and escape alerts, and lost mode in the event the dog is lost, runs away or is stolen.

The mask uses an acoustic absorber that reduces voice vibrations by 80%, coupled with a pair of bone conductor microphones to allow a completely private conversation.