On CE - For Dealers, Distributors and OEMs of Consumer Electronics throughout EMEA

In my DISTREE XXL keynote in Monaco, I share several entertaining stories about retail and brand experience.

Without ruining the surprises in the talk, here are some of the topics included...

First, the man who invented the STOP sign has a lesson for all of us. Next, off to the Middle East where you'll meet THE MAN WHO DIDN'T KNOW HE HAD A BRAND. Then a discussion of B8TA's significant new retail approach and the beginning of their international expansion.

Microsoft continues to offer details on the upcoming Xbox Series X game console, with a blog post revealing a slew of technical specifications of a machine the company says is designed for "Power, Speed and Compatibility."

At the heart of the Series X is a semi-custom AMD Zen 2 processor. It runs 8 cores at 3.8GHz (3.66GHz with SMT in use), with one core handling basic system functions. Next to it is a GPU able to push 12 teraflops of compute power from 52 compute units, allowing for what Microsoft claims is 4K resolution gaming at 60fps, as well as support for 120fps. A large massive vapour chamber and primary fan keep the console cool, in either orientation.

Target takes on the lucrative digital gaming market with the "Game Room," a concept store inside the San Francisco Target Open House location allowing customers to get hands-on with the gaming fun.

Described by the retailer as a "play space for tomorrow's gamer," the Game Room is located in what was previously a smart home technology and product showcase. The redone store offers devices ranging from smartphones hooked up with Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass to Google Stadia systems and multiple VR/AR areas, and customers are encouraged to check out multiple experiences. In addition, Target plans to hold events such as meets-and-greets, tournaments and talks in the space.

HMD Global quietly releases an Android Go-powered entry-level smartphone-- the Nokia C2, a 5.7-inch handset feature fairly modest specifications, such as a quad-core UniSoc chipset and an HD+ display.

Further tech specs 16GB RAM, 16GB internal storage (expandable to 64GB via microSD card) and a 2800mAh user-removable battery. A headphone port is also included, together with a dedicated Google Assistant button allowing users to quickly enter voice search and give the Assistant commands. The back has a 5MP camera with an LED flash, while the front-facing shooter is also 5MP.